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Matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 in equine synovial fluids
P D Clegg1, A R Coughlan, C M Riggs
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Animal Husbandry, University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Liverpool, Leahurst, UK.
Equine Veterinary Journal
|November 5, 1997
Summary
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are elevated in equine joint disease synovial fluid. These enzymes are bioactive and may contribute to cartilage destruction in horses with osteoarthritis.
Area of Science:
- Equine Medicine
- Biochemistry
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in cartilage degradation in equine osteoarthritis.
- MMPs may be detectable in synovial fluid, offering a potential diagnostic marker.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and activity of MMPs in equine synovial fluid from normal and diseased joints.
- To determine if MMPs are bioactive and contribute to cartilage damage in equine joint diseases.
Main Methods:
- Synovial fluid collection from normal and diseased equine joints (aseptic and septic).
- Measurement of total MMP gelatinase activity using gelatin zymography and image analysis.
- Determination of gelatinase bioactivity via gelatin degradation ELISA.
Main Results:
- MMP-2 and MMP-9 monomer activities were significantly higher in both aseptic and septic joint disease fluids compared to normal joints.
- MMP-9 dimer activity was elevated in septic joint disease but not aseptic disease fluids.
- Elevated MMP levels correlated with synovial fluid white blood cell counts.
- Gelatinase bioactivity was significantly increased in synovial fluids from both disease types.
Conclusions:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are present in a bioactive form in equine synovial fluid during joint disease.
- Elevated MMPs, particularly MMP-2 and MMP-9, are associated with both aseptic and septic equine joint diseases.
- These bioactive MMPs likely play a role in articular cartilage degradation in horses.