Matrix metalloproteinase-7 could be a predictor for acute inflammation in psoriatic patients

Arbia Abbes1, Yosra Zayani2, Wiem Zidi2

  • 1University of Tunis El Manar, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, LR99ES11, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Rabta Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia; University of Tunis El Manar, Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, Tunisia.

Cytokine
|July 15, 2020
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7) is linked to psoriasis and inflammation, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for predicting this skin condition. MMP-7 levels were elevated in patients, correlating with disease severity and inflammatory markers.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology and immunology research.
  • Biochemistry and molecular biology.

Background:

  • Psoriasis pathogenesis involves extracellular matrix (ECM) disruption, with matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) playing an active role.
  • Understanding the role of specific MMPs, like MMP-7, is crucial for identifying potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in psoriasis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7) levels in psoriatic patients.
  • To investigate the association between MMP-7 and inflammatory markers in psoriasis.
  • To evaluate MMP-7's potential as a predictive biomarker and its distribution in psoriatic skin.

Main Methods:

  • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was used to measure MMP-7, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in 108 psoriatic patients and 133 healthy controls.
  • Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was employed to detect MMP-7 expression in involved and uninvolved psoriatic skin.

Main Results:

  • Psoriatic patients exhibited significantly higher ECM turnover and inflammatory biomarker levels compared to controls.
  • MMP-7 was independently associated with psoriasis, showing a similar predictive capability to inflammation scores (AUC).
  • MMP-7 levels positively correlated with interleukin-6 (IL-6) and inflammation scores, and its expression varied in keratinocytes between involved and uninvolved skin.

Conclusions:

  • Matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7) is independently associated with psoriasis and its inflammatory response.
  • MMP-7 demonstrates potential as a predictive biomarker for psoriasis.
  • The distribution of MMP-7 in psoriatic skin suggests a role in the disease's pathogenesis.