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The Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitor Batimastat Reduces Epidural Fibrosis After Laminectomy in Rats
Ziya Yurtal1, Huseyin Ozkan, Tuncer Kutlu
1Hatay Mustafa Kemal University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Surgery, Hatay, Turkey.
Turkish Neurosurgery
|December 9, 2022
Summary
Locally applied batimastat effectively reduces epidural fibrosis after laminectomy. This matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor decreased fibrosis scores and inflammatory markers in a rat model.
Area of Science:
- Spinal Surgery
- Wound Healing
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Postoperative epidural fibrosis is a common complication following laminectomy.
- This fibrosis can lead to persistent pain and neurological deficits.
- Current treatments for epidural fibrosis are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of batimastat, a matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor, in preventing epidural fibrosis after laminectomy.
- To assess the molecular and pathological changes associated with batimastat application.
Main Methods:
- Wistar albino male rats underwent laminectomy and were treated with batimastat or SpongostanTM.
- Gene and protein expression of inflammatory and fibrotic markers (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-10, TGF-β1, MMP9) were analyzed.
- Histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluations were performed.
Main Results:
- Batimastat significantly decreased matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) gene expression.
- Fibrosis scores, fibroblast counts, inflammatory cell infiltration, and CD105 expression were reduced in the batimastat group.
- While some inflammatory markers increased, IL-10 levels remained similar to controls, unlike in sham or SpongostanTM groups.
Conclusions:
- Locally applied batimastat demonstrates efficacy in mitigating epidural fibrosis post-laminectomy.
- Batimastat's mechanism involves reducing MMP9 expression and decreasing pathological hallmarks of fibrosis.
- These findings suggest batimastat as a potential therapeutic agent for preventing postoperative epidural fibrosis.
