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Updated: Sep 29, 2025

Author Spotlight: Unlocking the Mysteries of Oral Potential Malignancies
Published on: August 11, 2023
Association between matrix metalloproteinases-2 and -9 gene polymorphism with basement membrane disruption in oral
Anubhuti Sood1, Latha Mary Cherian1, R Heera1
1Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Government Dental College, Kottayam, Kerala, 686001, India.
Objectives:
This study investigated genetic polymorphism of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) -2 and -9 in oral lichen planus (OLP) and their association with the basement membrane status.
Study Design:
This case-control study involved genotyping of peripheral blood sample of 32 OLP patients and 106 ethnically matched controls. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) that were assessed in the groups were- MMP9 rs3918242, MMP9 rs17576 and MMP2 rs865094. Basement membrane status of the OLP biopsy samples was microscopically assessed and recorded following Periodic acid Schiff staining.
Results:
MMP9 rs3918242 showed significant genotypic and allelic associations between OLP subjects and controls. It was also significantly associated with intact basement membranes in OLP cases with increased frequency of 'TT' genotype and 'T' allele. No association was found with regard to MMP9 rs17576 and MMP2 rs865094.
Conclusion:
Biallelic substitution at the promoter region of MMP9 (rs3918242) gene may be associated with increased risk of development of OLP. It may be involved in compromising the integrity of the basement membrane junction.
Insights
Genetic variations in matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) rs3918242 are linked to oral lichen planus (OLP) risk. This polymorphism may also affect basement membrane integrity in OLP patients.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Oral Medicine
- Immunology
Background:
- Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting oral mucosa.
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play roles in tissue remodeling and inflammation.
- Basement membrane integrity is crucial for mucosal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between genetic polymorphisms in MMP-2 and MMP-9 and Oral Lichen Planus (OLP).
- To determine if these polymorphisms correlate with the status of the basement membrane in OLP lesions.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study was conducted with 32 OLP patients and 106 controls.
- Genotyping was performed for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs): MMP9 rs3918242, MMP9 rs17576, and MMP2 rs865094.
- Basement membrane status was assessed in OLP biopsy samples using Periodic acid Schiff staining.
Main Results:
- The MMP9 rs3918242 polymorphism showed significant genotypic and allelic associations between OLP patients and controls.
- This specific polymorphism was associated with intact basement membranes in OLP cases, particularly the 'TT' genotype and 'T' allele.
- No significant associations were found for MMP9 rs17576 or MMP2 rs865094.
Conclusions:
- A biallelic substitution in the MMP9 rs3918242 promoter region may increase OLP susceptibility.
- This genetic variation might contribute to compromised basement membrane integrity in Oral Lichen Planus.

