BACKGROUND Increasing data indicated that long noncoding RNAs(lncRNAs)were directly or indirectly involved in the occurrence and development of tumors,including hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Recent studies had found t...BACKGROUND Increasing data indicated that long noncoding RNAs(lncRNAs)were directly or indirectly involved in the occurrence and development of tumors,including hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Recent studies had found that the expression of lncRNA HAND2-AS1 was downregulated in HCC tissues,but its role in HCC progression is unclear.Ultrasound targeted microbubble destruction mediated gene transfection is a new method to overexpress genes.AIM To study the role of ultrasound microbubbles(UTMBs)mediated HAND2-AS1 in the progression of HCC,in order to provide a new reference for the treatment of HCC.METHODS In vitro,we transfected HAND2-AS1 siRNA into HepG2 cells by UTMBs,and detected cell proliferation,apoptosis,invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)by cell counting kit-8 assay,flow cytometry,Transwell invasion assay and Western blotting,respectively.In addition,we transfected miR-837-5p mimic into UTMBs treated cells and observed the changes of cell behavior.Next,the UTMBs treated HepG2 cells were transfected together with miR-837-5p mimic and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2(TIMP2)overexpression vector,and we detected cell proliferation,apoptosis,invasion and EMT.In vivo,we established a mouse model of subcutaneous transplantation of HepG2 cells and observed the effect of HAND2-AS1 silencing on tumor formation ability.RESULTS We found that UTMBs carrying HAND2-AS1 restricted cell proliferation,invasion,and EMT,encouraged apoptosis,and HAND2-AS1 silencing eliminated the effect of UTMBs.Additionally,miR-873-5p targets the gene HAND2-AS1,which also targets the 3’UTR of TIMP2.And miR-873-5p mimic counteracted the impact of HAND2-AS1.Further,miR-873-5p mimic solely or in combination with pcDNA-TIMP2 had been transformed into HepG2 cells exposed to UTMBs.We discovered that TIMP2 reversed the effect of miR-873-5p mimic caused by the blocked signalling cascade for matrix metalloproteinase(MMP)2/MMP9.In vivo results showed that HAND2-AS1 silencing significantly inhibited tumor formation in mice.CONCLUSION LncRNA HAND2-AS1 promotes TIMP2 expression by targeting miR-873-5p to inhibit HepG2 cell growth and delay HCC progression.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 in hepatic fibrosis and the antifibrogenic role of exogenous interleukin-10 (IL-10).METHODS: Hepatic fibrosi...AIM: To investigate the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 in hepatic fibrosis and the antifibrogenic role of exogenous interleukin-10 (IL-10).METHODS: Hepatic fibrosis was induced by CCl4administration and 60 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into normal control group (group N, 8rats), CCl4-induced group (group C, 28 rats) and IL-10-treated group (group I, 24 rats). At the beginning of the 7th and 11th wk, rats in each group were routinely perfused with pronase E and type Ⅳ collagenase through portal vein catheter and the suspension was centrifuged by 11%Nycodenz density gradient to isolate hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). RT-PCR was used to analyze mRNA of MMP-2 and TIMP-1 from freshly isolated cells. Densitometric data were standardized with β-actin signals. Immunocytochemistry was performed to detect MMP-2 and TIMP-1 expression in HSC cultured for 72 h.RESULTS: Compared to group N in the 7th wk, MMP-2and TIMP-1 mRNA increased in group C (P= 0.001/0.001)and group I (P = 0.001/0.009). The level of MMP-2 and TIMP-1 mRNA in group I was significantly lower than that in group C (P= 0.001/0.001). In the 11th wk, MMP-2 mRNAin group I was still lower than that in group C (P = 0.005),but both dropped compared with that in the 7th week (P = 0.001/0.004). TIMP-1 mRNA in group I was still lower than that in group C (P= 0.001), and increased in group C (P = 0.001) while decreased in group I (P = 0.042)compared with that in the 7th wk. Same results were found by immunocytochemistry.CONCLUSION: Expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-1 is increased in hepatic fibrosis. IL-10 exhibits an antifibrogenic effect by suppressing MMP-2 and TIMP-1 expression.展开更多
Activity of matrix metalloproteinase-9 increases following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion, and is associated with cerebral microvascular permeability, blood-brain barrier destruction, inflammatory cell infiltration and...Activity of matrix metalloproteinase-9 increases following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion, and is associated with cerebral microvascular permeability, blood-brain barrier destruction, inflammatory cell infiltration and brain edema. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 also likely participates in thrombolysis. A rat model of middle cerebral artery infarction was established by injecting autologous blood clots into the internal carotid artery. At 3 hours following model induction, urokinase was injected into the caudal vein. Decreased neurological severity score, reduced infarct volume, and increased expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 were observed in the cerebral cortex 24 hours after urokinase thrombolysis. These results suggest that urokinase can suppress damage in the acute-early stage of cerebral infarction.展开更多
This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism in tumor invasion and metastasis. The ex-pression of matrix metalloproteinase-2,-9 (MMP-2,MMP-9), tissue inhibitor-1 of matrix metalloprote inase(TIMP-1) , cell adh...This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism in tumor invasion and metastasis. The ex-pression of matrix metalloproteinase-2,-9 (MMP-2,MMP-9), tissue inhibitor-1 of matrix metalloprote inase(TIMP-1) , cell adhesion molecule 44 variant 6 (CD44v6) , HER2/neu and p53 was investigated in 154 pa-tients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by ABC and ImmunoMax immunohistochemical method. Their clinical relevance and correlation were analysed. The expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1,CD44v6, HER2/neu and p53 was found in cancer cells in 87.01%, 85.71%, 68. 18%, 98.05%,55.19% and 50.65% cases respectively. Linear regression and correlation analysis revealed that there wasclose positive relationship ( P < 0.05) between the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9, TIMP-1 and CD44v6,HER2/neu and MMP-9, MMP-2 and p53. Up-regulation of MMP-2 was accompanied by advanced T stage( P < 0.01 ) . There was also a trend of MMP-2 expression being related with tumor metastasis. Increased ex-pression of HER2/neu was found in patients with tumor recurrence( P < 0.05 ) . The expression of TIMP-1 washigher in laryngeal cancer than that in pharyngeal cancer, and higher in keratinizing and non-keratlnizing SCC than that in basaloid SCC ( P < 0.05 ) . These findings suggested that MMP-2 and MMP-9, HER2/neu andMMP-9, MMP-2 and p53 had a coordinate function in aggression of tumor; that MMP-2 had a more important function than MMP-9 in tumor invasion and metastasis; and that HER2/neu might serve as a biomarker forpoor prognosis in HNSCC.展开更多
In this study, we determined the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 and matrix metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor-1 and -2 in brain tissues and blood plasma of patients undergoing surgery for cereb...In this study, we determined the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 and matrix metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor-1 and -2 in brain tissues and blood plasma of patients undergoing surgery for cerebellar arteriovenous malformations or primary epilepsy (control group). Immunohistochemistry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay revealed that the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and matrix metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor-1 was significantly higher in patients with cerebellar arteriovenous malformations than in patients with primary epilepsy. The ratio of matrix metalloproteinase-9 to matrix metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor-1 was significantly higher in patients with hemorrhagic cerebellar arteriovenous malformations compared with those with non-hemorrhagic malformations. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor-2 levels were not significantly changed. These findings indicate that an imbalance of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and matrix metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor-I, resulting in a relative overabundance of matrix metalloproteinase-9, might be the underlying mechanism of hemorrhage of cerebellar arteriovenous malformations.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) can degrade collagen IV (the main structural ingredient of basilar membrane), and it also plays an important role in tumor vascularization, tumor cell progression, f...BACKGROUND: Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) can degrade collagen IV (the main structural ingredient of basilar membrane), and it also plays an important role in tumor vascularization, tumor cell progression, formation of metastatic focus, etc. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (T1MP-1) can bind with MMP-9 to form 1 : 1 compound and inhibit its activity, and can negatively regulate the tumor progression and metastasis. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the relationship of MMP-9 and T1MP-1 expressions with the pathological grade, metastasis and prognosis of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST). DESIGN: An observational comparative experiment. SETTING: Heze Medical College. PARTICIPANTS: Fifty-eight surgical pathological samples, which were clearly diagnosed to be MPNST, were collected from the pathological laboratory archives in the Department of Pathology, Heze Municipal Hospital from January 1988 to December 2003. The MPNST pathological types were common tumor in 53 cases, malignant triton tumor in 2 cases, epithelial MPNST in 2 cases and MPNST with gland differentiation in 1 case. The pathological grade was grade 1 in 11 cases, grade 2 in 24 cases and grade 3 in 23 cases. Besides, the resected tumor samples of 20 patients with benign peripheral nerve tumor (10 cases of nerve sheath tumor and 10 cases of neurofibromatosis) and the normal peripheral nerves (by-products of some surgeries) of 5 patients were also collected. The samples were used with the approval of the patients. Rat-anti-human MMP-9, TIMP-1 monoclonal antibody and S-P kit were purchased from Fuzhou Maixin Biotechnology, Co.,Ltd. METHODS: The documented paraffin blocks were again prepared to sections of 5 lJ m. The expressions of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in the samples were detected with mmunohistochemical S-P method. The relationships of the MPNST severity, recurrence, metastasis and survival rate with the expressions of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 were analyzed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Relationships of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expressions with the MPNST severity and prognosis. RESULTS: ①Expressions of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in three tissues: MMP-9 and TIMP-1 stainings were mainly observed in cytoplasm. Among the 58 MPNST patients, the MMP-9 expression was significantly higher than those in normal peripheral nerve and benign tumor (P 〈 0.05), while the TIMP-1 expression in MPNST was lower than those in normal peripheral nerve and benign tumor (P 〈 0.05). ②Relationship of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expressions with the severity and prognosis of MPNST: The expressions of both proteins were observed in the four subtypes. The positive expression of MMP-9 in the MPNST patients of grades 2 - 3 was significantly higher than that in the MPNST patients of grade 1 (P 〈 0.05), while the expression of MMP-9 was significantly lower than that in the MPNST patients of grade 1 (P 〈 0.05). The metastatic rate was positively correlated with MMP-9 expression (r =1.696, P 〈 0.05), but negatively correlated with TIMP-1 expression (r = - 2.125, P 〈 0.05). CONCLUSION: MMP-9 and TIMP-1 are associated with MPNST pathological grades and metastasis, and can be used as the indicators for judging the severity and orognosis of MPNST.展开更多
The action mechanism of matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP-2) in the genesis, development and degeneration of haemangioma was investigated by detecting their exp...The action mechanism of matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP-2) in the genesis, development and degeneration of haemangioma was investigated by detecting their expression in the tissue of haemangioma in different phases by using the immunohistochemistry. Fifty paraffin-embedded specimens of skin capillary haemangioma were collected, which were documented in the Department of Pathology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University from 2000 to 2006. All samples were stained by regular HE method, and proliferative cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was tested by immunohistochemical S-P method. The samples were classified according to the Mulliken criteria and the expression pattern of PCNA. Immunohistochemical S-P method was ap- plied to detect the expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in proliferative and degenerative phases of cutaneous capillary haemangioma, and in normal skin tissues. In combination with the detection of the expression of factor Ⅷ-related antigen, it was verified that in haemangioma tissues, the cells expressing MMP-2 and TIMP-2 were vascular endothelial cells. The MMP-2 and TIMP-2 expression was quantitatively analyzed by image analysis system (HPIAS-1000), and one-way ANOVA(107) and SNK(q) test were done to analyze average absorbance (A) and positive area rate of immunohistochemically positive particles by using SPSS11.5. The results showed: (1) Among 50 samples of haemangioma, there were 26 proliferative haemangiomas, and 24 degenerative haemangiomas, respectively; (2) The expression of MMP-2 was weak in normal vascular endothelial cells, cytoplasm of connective tissues and extracellular matrix around blood vessels. The expression of MMP-2 in proliferative group was significantly higher than in degenerative group and control group (normal skin) (P〈0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference between the latter two groups; (3) TIMP-2 was highly expressed in normal tissues, degenerative vascular endothelial cells, cytoplasm of connective tissues and extracellular matrix around blood vessels. The expression level of TIMP-2 in proliferative phase was significantly lower than in degenerative phase (P〈0.05), and the expression of TIMP-2 in proliferative phase was significantly different from that in degenerative phase and normal tissues (P〈0.05). It was concluded that in proliferative phase of haemangioma, MMP-2 may promote over-proliferation of endothelial cells of haemangioma, and in degenerative phase, TIMP-2 can inhibit the proliferation of endothelial cells of haemangioma. The two substances play important roles in the genesis, development and degeneration of haemangiomas.展开更多
Background Excessive deposition of extraceUular matrix (ECM) in the kidney is the hallmark of diabetic nephropathy. Increased matrix synthesis has been well documented but the effects of diabetes on degradative path...Background Excessive deposition of extraceUular matrix (ECM) in the kidney is the hallmark of diabetic nephropathy. Increased matrix synthesis has been well documented but the effects of diabetes on degradative pathways, particularly in the in vivo setting. The renal protective effect of these pathways on matrix accumulation has not been fully elucidated. The present study was understaken to investigate the activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), the expression of MMP-2 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) in kidney tissues of diabetic rats, and to explore the degradative pathway of type Ⅳ collagen (Ⅳ-C) and the renal protective effects of ACE inhibition- benazepril.展开更多
Glomerular hypertrophy and progressive expansion of extracelluar matrix (ECM) have been regarded as the early feature of diabetic nephropathy (DN), which leads to accumulation of ECM and thickening of glomerular basem...Glomerular hypertrophy and progressive expansion of extracelluar matrix (ECM) have been regarded as the early feature of diabetic nephropathy (DN), which leads to accumulation of ECM and thickening of glomerular basement membrane, and subsequently induces renal fibrosis. Both increasing synthesis and decreasing degradation of matrix components are responsible for matrix accumulation. The later may play more important role in DN that involves a number of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). MMPs are a family of proteolytic enzymes whose activity is tightly regulated by tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and the MMP/TIMP ratio is critical for coordinating matrix production and degradation. 1 Recently, considerable evidence suggests that the intrarenal renin-angiotensin system plays an important role in the development of DN. 2 Blockade of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) by angiotensin-coverting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) or angiotensin Ⅱ receptor antagonist (AIIRA) delays the progression of renal injury associated with diabetes. 3 AIIRA has been regarded as the first line choice for DN therapy. However, the potential mechanism for AIIRA in the ECM degradative pathway has not been fully elucidated. The present study is to investigate the effect of Irbesartan (Irb), a newly developed AIIRA, on renal expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.展开更多
Background The relationship between the presence of metalloproteinases and thyroid cancer remains unknown, and many controversies still exist in this field. The objective of this study was to investigate the correlati...Background The relationship between the presence of metalloproteinases and thyroid cancer remains unknown, and many controversies still exist in this field. The objective of this study was to investigate the correlations between papillary thyroid cancer and peripheral blood levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, and tissue inhibitor of metall0Proteinase-2. Methods The correlations were studied bY detecting the levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloProteinase-1, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 by enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction in the peripheral blood of 30 patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma, 27 patients with benign thyroid disease, and 25 hea !hy vo!unteers. Results The leve!s of matrix metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 in the peripheral blood of patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma were significantly higher than those in the peripheral blood of patients with benign thyroid disease and healthy volunteers (P 〈0.05). However, there were no significant differences between patients with benign thyroid disease and healthy volunteers (P 〉0.05). The accuracy of detection by both enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction in the papillary thyroid cancer group was 83.33%. Conclusions The levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 in the peripheral blood are helpful in identifying thyroid carcinoma and aid in preoperative assessment.展开更多
AIM: To compare matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 in gastric ulcer (GU) and chronic superficial gastritis (CSG). METHODS: This study enrolled 63 patients with GU and 2...AIM: To compare matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 in gastric ulcer (GU) and chronic superficial gastritis (CSG). METHODS: This study enrolled 63 patients with GU and 25 patients with CSG. During upper gastroduodenal endoscopy, we took samples of gastric mucosa from the antrum and ulcer site from patients with GU, and samples of antral mucosa from patients with CSG. Mucosal biopsy tissues were cultured for 24 h, and the culture supernatant was measured for levels of MMP-9 and TIMP-1. After receiving eradication therapy for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori ) and 8 wk proton-pump inhibitor therapy for GU, follow-up endoscopy examination was performed after 6 mo and whenever severe symptoms occurred. RESULTS: Levels of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 at the ulcer site or in the antrum were significantly higher in GU than CSG patients. MMP-9 levels at the ulcer site were significantly higher than in the antrum in GU patients, and had a significantly positive correlation with TIMP-1. MMP-9 levels were significantly higher in H. pylori -positive than H. pylori -negative GU and CSG patients. Levels of MMP-9 or TIMP-1 at the ulcer site were associated with the histological severity of activity and inflammation. About 57 GU patients were followed up, and seven had GU recurrence. H. pyloriinfection and MMP-9 levels were risk factors for the recurrence of GU adjusted for age and sex by multiple logistic regression analysis. CONCLUSION: MMP-9 may perform an important function in gastric ulcer formation and recurrence.展开更多
Background Bariatric surgery offers a productive resolution of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).The development of T2DM vasculopathy is due to chronic inflammation,which increases matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9)...Background Bariatric surgery offers a productive resolution of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).The development of T2DM vasculopathy is due to chronic inflammation,which increases matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) expression.This study sought to examine MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expression in the thoracic aorta after duodenal-jejunal bypass (DJB) surgery on a T2DM rat model induced by a high-fat diet and low dose streptozotocin (STZ).Methods Twenty-one T2DM Wistar rats induced by high-fat diet and low dose STZ were randomly divided into DJB and sham duodenal-jejunal bypass (S-DJB) groups.Ten Wistar rats were fed a normal diet as a control.Recovery of gastrointestinal function post-operation and resumption of a normal diet completed the experiment.Body weight,blood glucose,blood lipid levels,and MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expression levels in aortic endothelial cells were measured throughout.Results DJB rats showed significant weight loss 2 weeks post-operation compared with S-DJB rats.After surgery,DJB rats showed significant improvement and steady glycemic control with improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance.They also exhibited improved lipid metabolism with a decrease in fasting free fatty acids (FFAs) and triglycerides (all P <0.05).Immunohistochemistry showed decreased MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expression 12 weeks after surgery (P < 0.01).Conclusions DJB surgery on an induced T2DM rat model improves blood glucose levels and lipids,following a high-fat diet and low dose STZ treatment.In addition,DJB decreased MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expression in vascular endothelial cells,which may play an important role in delaying the development of T2DM vascular disease.展开更多
Background The cholesterol-lowering statin drugs have some non-lipid-lowering effects, such as inhibiting myocardial remodeling. However, the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Methods The left anterior descending...Background The cholesterol-lowering statin drugs have some non-lipid-lowering effects, such as inhibiting myocardial remodeling. However, the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Methods The left anterior descending coronary artery was ligated to establish a rat model of heart failure, and the rats were divided into a sham operation (SO) group, myocardial infarction model (MI) group, and MI-atorvastatin group. Changes in hemodynamic parameters were recorded after the final drug administration. Histological diagnosis was made by reviewing hematoxylin and eosin (HE) stained tissue. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to determine the expressions of type I and type III collagen, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), and tissue matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor-2 (TIMP-2). Further, primary rat cardiac fibroblasts were cultured and the MTT assay was performed to determine the effect of atorvastatin on cardiac fibroblast proliferation. Results The model of heart failure was established and the results of HE staining and Masson's trichrome staining revealed that the rats in the heart failure group showed obvious hyperplasia of fibrotic tissue, which was significantly reduced in the atorvastatin group. Real-time quantitative PCR showed that the MI group showed a significantly increased expression of type I and type III coltagen, MMP-2, and TIMP-2, but a significantly reduced MMP-2/T'IMP- 2 ratio. Compared with the MI group, the atorvastatin group showed significantly reduced expression of type I and III collagen, unchanged expression of MMP-2, significantly reduced expression of TIMP-2, and an increased MMP-2/ TIMP-2 ratio. We further found that atorvastatin significantly inhibited the Ang II-induced fibroblast proliferation and the expression of type I and type III collagen in cardiac fibroblasts while increasing the MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio. Conclusions These data suggest that atorvastatin can inhibit cardiac fibroblast proliferation and enhance collagen degradation by increasing the MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio, thereby inhibiting the formation of myocardial fibrosis in rats with heart failure after myocardial infarction.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To study the effect of Lichong decoction(LD) on expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2(MMP-2) and metalloproteinase-2(TIMP-2) in a rat model of uterine leiomyoma(UL).METHODS:UL was induced in rats using ex...OBJECTIVE:To study the effect of Lichong decoction(LD) on expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2(MMP-2) and metalloproteinase-2(TIMP-2) in a rat model of uterine leiomyoma(UL).METHODS:UL was induced in rats using exogenous estrogen and progesterone.LD was administered(p.o.) for 4 weeks,and mifepristone(RU-486)used as a control.To observe the effect of LD on the uterine coefficient and uterine transverse diameter,a radioimmunoassay method was used to detect serum levels of sex hormones.Light microscopic analyses of pathologic changes in the tissues of UL rats were evaluated.Expression of the proteins of matrix metalloproteinases(MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases(TIMPs) in uterine tissues was assessed by immunohistochemical staining and western blotting.RESULTS:A UL model in rats was established successfully.LD reduced uterine weight,uterine coefficient,and uterine transverse diameter compared with untreated controls.LD reduced levels of estradiol,progesterone,follicle-stimulating hormone,and luteinizing hormone in our UL models.LD improved the pathologic condition of uterine muscle.Expression of MMP-2 protein decreased to varying extents in LD-treated groups,but TIMP-2 levels were enhanced.LD appears to reduce MMP-2 expression and increase TIMP-2 expression in UL tissue.CONCLUSION:These data suggest that the mechanism of action of LD on ULs may involve reduction of MMP-2 expression and increase in TIMP-2 expression in rats.展开更多
文摘BACKGROUND Increasing data indicated that long noncoding RNAs(lncRNAs)were directly or indirectly involved in the occurrence and development of tumors,including hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Recent studies had found that the expression of lncRNA HAND2-AS1 was downregulated in HCC tissues,but its role in HCC progression is unclear.Ultrasound targeted microbubble destruction mediated gene transfection is a new method to overexpress genes.AIM To study the role of ultrasound microbubbles(UTMBs)mediated HAND2-AS1 in the progression of HCC,in order to provide a new reference for the treatment of HCC.METHODS In vitro,we transfected HAND2-AS1 siRNA into HepG2 cells by UTMBs,and detected cell proliferation,apoptosis,invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)by cell counting kit-8 assay,flow cytometry,Transwell invasion assay and Western blotting,respectively.In addition,we transfected miR-837-5p mimic into UTMBs treated cells and observed the changes of cell behavior.Next,the UTMBs treated HepG2 cells were transfected together with miR-837-5p mimic and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2(TIMP2)overexpression vector,and we detected cell proliferation,apoptosis,invasion and EMT.In vivo,we established a mouse model of subcutaneous transplantation of HepG2 cells and observed the effect of HAND2-AS1 silencing on tumor formation ability.RESULTS We found that UTMBs carrying HAND2-AS1 restricted cell proliferation,invasion,and EMT,encouraged apoptosis,and HAND2-AS1 silencing eliminated the effect of UTMBs.Additionally,miR-873-5p targets the gene HAND2-AS1,which also targets the 3’UTR of TIMP2.And miR-873-5p mimic counteracted the impact of HAND2-AS1.Further,miR-873-5p mimic solely or in combination with pcDNA-TIMP2 had been transformed into HepG2 cells exposed to UTMBs.We discovered that TIMP2 reversed the effect of miR-873-5p mimic caused by the blocked signalling cascade for matrix metalloproteinase(MMP)2/MMP9.In vivo results showed that HAND2-AS1 silencing significantly inhibited tumor formation in mice.CONCLUSION LncRNA HAND2-AS1 promotes TIMP2 expression by targeting miR-873-5p to inhibit HepG2 cell growth and delay HCC progression.
基金Supported by the Science and Technology Project of Fujian Educational Committee, No. JA04198
文摘AIM: To investigate the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 in hepatic fibrosis and the antifibrogenic role of exogenous interleukin-10 (IL-10).METHODS: Hepatic fibrosis was induced by CCl4administration and 60 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into normal control group (group N, 8rats), CCl4-induced group (group C, 28 rats) and IL-10-treated group (group I, 24 rats). At the beginning of the 7th and 11th wk, rats in each group were routinely perfused with pronase E and type Ⅳ collagenase through portal vein catheter and the suspension was centrifuged by 11%Nycodenz density gradient to isolate hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). RT-PCR was used to analyze mRNA of MMP-2 and TIMP-1 from freshly isolated cells. Densitometric data were standardized with β-actin signals. Immunocytochemistry was performed to detect MMP-2 and TIMP-1 expression in HSC cultured for 72 h.RESULTS: Compared to group N in the 7th wk, MMP-2and TIMP-1 mRNA increased in group C (P= 0.001/0.001)and group I (P = 0.001/0.009). The level of MMP-2 and TIMP-1 mRNA in group I was significantly lower than that in group C (P= 0.001/0.001). In the 11th wk, MMP-2 mRNAin group I was still lower than that in group C (P = 0.005),but both dropped compared with that in the 7th week (P = 0.001/0.004). TIMP-1 mRNA in group I was still lower than that in group C (P= 0.001), and increased in group C (P = 0.001) while decreased in group I (P = 0.042)compared with that in the 7th wk. Same results were found by immunocytochemistry.CONCLUSION: Expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-1 is increased in hepatic fibrosis. IL-10 exhibits an antifibrogenic effect by suppressing MMP-2 and TIMP-1 expression.
基金funded by the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province (Therapeutic effects and mechanisms of low-frequency ultrasound combined with urokinase thrombolysis in treatment of cerebral infarction in rats),No. 2009ZRB14007
文摘Activity of matrix metalloproteinase-9 increases following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion, and is associated with cerebral microvascular permeability, blood-brain barrier destruction, inflammatory cell infiltration and brain edema. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 also likely participates in thrombolysis. A rat model of middle cerebral artery infarction was established by injecting autologous blood clots into the internal carotid artery. At 3 hours following model induction, urokinase was injected into the caudal vein. Decreased neurological severity score, reduced infarct volume, and increased expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 were observed in the cerebral cortex 24 hours after urokinase thrombolysis. These results suggest that urokinase can suppress damage in the acute-early stage of cerebral infarction.
文摘This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism in tumor invasion and metastasis. The ex-pression of matrix metalloproteinase-2,-9 (MMP-2,MMP-9), tissue inhibitor-1 of matrix metalloprote inase(TIMP-1) , cell adhesion molecule 44 variant 6 (CD44v6) , HER2/neu and p53 was investigated in 154 pa-tients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by ABC and ImmunoMax immunohistochemical method. Their clinical relevance and correlation were analysed. The expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1,CD44v6, HER2/neu and p53 was found in cancer cells in 87.01%, 85.71%, 68. 18%, 98.05%,55.19% and 50.65% cases respectively. Linear regression and correlation analysis revealed that there wasclose positive relationship ( P < 0.05) between the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9, TIMP-1 and CD44v6,HER2/neu and MMP-9, MMP-2 and p53. Up-regulation of MMP-2 was accompanied by advanced T stage( P < 0.01 ) . There was also a trend of MMP-2 expression being related with tumor metastasis. Increased ex-pression of HER2/neu was found in patients with tumor recurrence( P < 0.05 ) . The expression of TIMP-1 washigher in laryngeal cancer than that in pharyngeal cancer, and higher in keratinizing and non-keratlnizing SCC than that in basaloid SCC ( P < 0.05 ) . These findings suggested that MMP-2 and MMP-9, HER2/neu andMMP-9, MMP-2 and p53 had a coordinate function in aggression of tumor; that MMP-2 had a more important function than MMP-9 in tumor invasion and metastasis; and that HER2/neu might serve as a biomarker forpoor prognosis in HNSCC.
文摘In this study, we determined the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 and matrix metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor-1 and -2 in brain tissues and blood plasma of patients undergoing surgery for cerebellar arteriovenous malformations or primary epilepsy (control group). Immunohistochemistry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay revealed that the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and matrix metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor-1 was significantly higher in patients with cerebellar arteriovenous malformations than in patients with primary epilepsy. The ratio of matrix metalloproteinase-9 to matrix metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor-1 was significantly higher in patients with hemorrhagic cerebellar arteriovenous malformations compared with those with non-hemorrhagic malformations. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor-2 levels were not significantly changed. These findings indicate that an imbalance of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and matrix metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor-I, resulting in a relative overabundance of matrix metalloproteinase-9, might be the underlying mechanism of hemorrhage of cerebellar arteriovenous malformations.
文摘BACKGROUND: Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) can degrade collagen IV (the main structural ingredient of basilar membrane), and it also plays an important role in tumor vascularization, tumor cell progression, formation of metastatic focus, etc. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (T1MP-1) can bind with MMP-9 to form 1 : 1 compound and inhibit its activity, and can negatively regulate the tumor progression and metastasis. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the relationship of MMP-9 and T1MP-1 expressions with the pathological grade, metastasis and prognosis of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST). DESIGN: An observational comparative experiment. SETTING: Heze Medical College. PARTICIPANTS: Fifty-eight surgical pathological samples, which were clearly diagnosed to be MPNST, were collected from the pathological laboratory archives in the Department of Pathology, Heze Municipal Hospital from January 1988 to December 2003. The MPNST pathological types were common tumor in 53 cases, malignant triton tumor in 2 cases, epithelial MPNST in 2 cases and MPNST with gland differentiation in 1 case. The pathological grade was grade 1 in 11 cases, grade 2 in 24 cases and grade 3 in 23 cases. Besides, the resected tumor samples of 20 patients with benign peripheral nerve tumor (10 cases of nerve sheath tumor and 10 cases of neurofibromatosis) and the normal peripheral nerves (by-products of some surgeries) of 5 patients were also collected. The samples were used with the approval of the patients. Rat-anti-human MMP-9, TIMP-1 monoclonal antibody and S-P kit were purchased from Fuzhou Maixin Biotechnology, Co.,Ltd. METHODS: The documented paraffin blocks were again prepared to sections of 5 lJ m. The expressions of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in the samples were detected with mmunohistochemical S-P method. The relationships of the MPNST severity, recurrence, metastasis and survival rate with the expressions of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 were analyzed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Relationships of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expressions with the MPNST severity and prognosis. RESULTS: ①Expressions of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in three tissues: MMP-9 and TIMP-1 stainings were mainly observed in cytoplasm. Among the 58 MPNST patients, the MMP-9 expression was significantly higher than those in normal peripheral nerve and benign tumor (P 〈 0.05), while the TIMP-1 expression in MPNST was lower than those in normal peripheral nerve and benign tumor (P 〈 0.05). ②Relationship of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expressions with the severity and prognosis of MPNST: The expressions of both proteins were observed in the four subtypes. The positive expression of MMP-9 in the MPNST patients of grades 2 - 3 was significantly higher than that in the MPNST patients of grade 1 (P 〈 0.05), while the expression of MMP-9 was significantly lower than that in the MPNST patients of grade 1 (P 〈 0.05). The metastatic rate was positively correlated with MMP-9 expression (r =1.696, P 〈 0.05), but negatively correlated with TIMP-1 expression (r = - 2.125, P 〈 0.05). CONCLUSION: MMP-9 and TIMP-1 are associated with MPNST pathological grades and metastasis, and can be used as the indicators for judging the severity and orognosis of MPNST.
基金supported by a grant from the National Natural Sciences Foundation of China (No.30872688)
文摘The action mechanism of matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP-2) in the genesis, development and degeneration of haemangioma was investigated by detecting their expression in the tissue of haemangioma in different phases by using the immunohistochemistry. Fifty paraffin-embedded specimens of skin capillary haemangioma were collected, which were documented in the Department of Pathology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University from 2000 to 2006. All samples were stained by regular HE method, and proliferative cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was tested by immunohistochemical S-P method. The samples were classified according to the Mulliken criteria and the expression pattern of PCNA. Immunohistochemical S-P method was ap- plied to detect the expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in proliferative and degenerative phases of cutaneous capillary haemangioma, and in normal skin tissues. In combination with the detection of the expression of factor Ⅷ-related antigen, it was verified that in haemangioma tissues, the cells expressing MMP-2 and TIMP-2 were vascular endothelial cells. The MMP-2 and TIMP-2 expression was quantitatively analyzed by image analysis system (HPIAS-1000), and one-way ANOVA(107) and SNK(q) test were done to analyze average absorbance (A) and positive area rate of immunohistochemically positive particles by using SPSS11.5. The results showed: (1) Among 50 samples of haemangioma, there were 26 proliferative haemangiomas, and 24 degenerative haemangiomas, respectively; (2) The expression of MMP-2 was weak in normal vascular endothelial cells, cytoplasm of connective tissues and extracellular matrix around blood vessels. The expression of MMP-2 in proliferative group was significantly higher than in degenerative group and control group (normal skin) (P〈0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference between the latter two groups; (3) TIMP-2 was highly expressed in normal tissues, degenerative vascular endothelial cells, cytoplasm of connective tissues and extracellular matrix around blood vessels. The expression level of TIMP-2 in proliferative phase was significantly lower than in degenerative phase (P〈0.05), and the expression of TIMP-2 in proliferative phase was significantly different from that in degenerative phase and normal tissues (P〈0.05). It was concluded that in proliferative phase of haemangioma, MMP-2 may promote over-proliferation of endothelial cells of haemangioma, and in degenerative phase, TIMP-2 can inhibit the proliferation of endothelial cells of haemangioma. The two substances play important roles in the genesis, development and degeneration of haemangiomas.
基金This study was supported by a grant from the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province (No. Y2002C35).
文摘Background Excessive deposition of extraceUular matrix (ECM) in the kidney is the hallmark of diabetic nephropathy. Increased matrix synthesis has been well documented but the effects of diabetes on degradative pathways, particularly in the in vivo setting. The renal protective effect of these pathways on matrix accumulation has not been fully elucidated. The present study was understaken to investigate the activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), the expression of MMP-2 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) in kidney tissues of diabetic rats, and to explore the degradative pathway of type Ⅳ collagen (Ⅳ-C) and the renal protective effects of ACE inhibition- benazepril.
文摘Glomerular hypertrophy and progressive expansion of extracelluar matrix (ECM) have been regarded as the early feature of diabetic nephropathy (DN), which leads to accumulation of ECM and thickening of glomerular basement membrane, and subsequently induces renal fibrosis. Both increasing synthesis and decreasing degradation of matrix components are responsible for matrix accumulation. The later may play more important role in DN that involves a number of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). MMPs are a family of proteolytic enzymes whose activity is tightly regulated by tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and the MMP/TIMP ratio is critical for coordinating matrix production and degradation. 1 Recently, considerable evidence suggests that the intrarenal renin-angiotensin system plays an important role in the development of DN. 2 Blockade of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) by angiotensin-coverting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) or angiotensin Ⅱ receptor antagonist (AIIRA) delays the progression of renal injury associated with diabetes. 3 AIIRA has been regarded as the first line choice for DN therapy. However, the potential mechanism for AIIRA in the ECM degradative pathway has not been fully elucidated. The present study is to investigate the effect of Irbesartan (Irb), a newly developed AIIRA, on renal expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.
文摘Background The relationship between the presence of metalloproteinases and thyroid cancer remains unknown, and many controversies still exist in this field. The objective of this study was to investigate the correlations between papillary thyroid cancer and peripheral blood levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, and tissue inhibitor of metall0Proteinase-2. Methods The correlations were studied bY detecting the levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloProteinase-1, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 by enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction in the peripheral blood of 30 patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma, 27 patients with benign thyroid disease, and 25 hea !hy vo!unteers. Results The leve!s of matrix metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 in the peripheral blood of patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma were significantly higher than those in the peripheral blood of patients with benign thyroid disease and healthy volunteers (P 〈0.05). However, there were no significant differences between patients with benign thyroid disease and healthy volunteers (P 〉0.05). The accuracy of detection by both enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction in the papillary thyroid cancer group was 83.33%. Conclusions The levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 in the peripheral blood are helpful in identifying thyroid carcinoma and aid in preoperative assessment.
文摘AIM: To compare matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 in gastric ulcer (GU) and chronic superficial gastritis (CSG). METHODS: This study enrolled 63 patients with GU and 25 patients with CSG. During upper gastroduodenal endoscopy, we took samples of gastric mucosa from the antrum and ulcer site from patients with GU, and samples of antral mucosa from patients with CSG. Mucosal biopsy tissues were cultured for 24 h, and the culture supernatant was measured for levels of MMP-9 and TIMP-1. After receiving eradication therapy for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori ) and 8 wk proton-pump inhibitor therapy for GU, follow-up endoscopy examination was performed after 6 mo and whenever severe symptoms occurred. RESULTS: Levels of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 at the ulcer site or in the antrum were significantly higher in GU than CSG patients. MMP-9 levels at the ulcer site were significantly higher than in the antrum in GU patients, and had a significantly positive correlation with TIMP-1. MMP-9 levels were significantly higher in H. pylori -positive than H. pylori -negative GU and CSG patients. Levels of MMP-9 or TIMP-1 at the ulcer site were associated with the histological severity of activity and inflammation. About 57 GU patients were followed up, and seven had GU recurrence. H. pyloriinfection and MMP-9 levels were risk factors for the recurrence of GU adjusted for age and sex by multiple logistic regression analysis. CONCLUSION: MMP-9 may perform an important function in gastric ulcer formation and recurrence.
基金This study was supported by a grant from the Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 26010105131228).
文摘Background Bariatric surgery offers a productive resolution of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).The development of T2DM vasculopathy is due to chronic inflammation,which increases matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) expression.This study sought to examine MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expression in the thoracic aorta after duodenal-jejunal bypass (DJB) surgery on a T2DM rat model induced by a high-fat diet and low dose streptozotocin (STZ).Methods Twenty-one T2DM Wistar rats induced by high-fat diet and low dose STZ were randomly divided into DJB and sham duodenal-jejunal bypass (S-DJB) groups.Ten Wistar rats were fed a normal diet as a control.Recovery of gastrointestinal function post-operation and resumption of a normal diet completed the experiment.Body weight,blood glucose,blood lipid levels,and MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expression levels in aortic endothelial cells were measured throughout.Results DJB rats showed significant weight loss 2 weeks post-operation compared with S-DJB rats.After surgery,DJB rats showed significant improvement and steady glycemic control with improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance.They also exhibited improved lipid metabolism with a decrease in fasting free fatty acids (FFAs) and triglycerides (all P <0.05).Immunohistochemistry showed decreased MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expression 12 weeks after surgery (P < 0.01).Conclusions DJB surgery on an induced T2DM rat model improves blood glucose levels and lipids,following a high-fat diet and low dose STZ treatment.In addition,DJB decreased MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expression in vascular endothelial cells,which may play an important role in delaying the development of T2DM vascular disease.
文摘Background The cholesterol-lowering statin drugs have some non-lipid-lowering effects, such as inhibiting myocardial remodeling. However, the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Methods The left anterior descending coronary artery was ligated to establish a rat model of heart failure, and the rats were divided into a sham operation (SO) group, myocardial infarction model (MI) group, and MI-atorvastatin group. Changes in hemodynamic parameters were recorded after the final drug administration. Histological diagnosis was made by reviewing hematoxylin and eosin (HE) stained tissue. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to determine the expressions of type I and type III collagen, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), and tissue matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor-2 (TIMP-2). Further, primary rat cardiac fibroblasts were cultured and the MTT assay was performed to determine the effect of atorvastatin on cardiac fibroblast proliferation. Results The model of heart failure was established and the results of HE staining and Masson's trichrome staining revealed that the rats in the heart failure group showed obvious hyperplasia of fibrotic tissue, which was significantly reduced in the atorvastatin group. Real-time quantitative PCR showed that the MI group showed a significantly increased expression of type I and type III coltagen, MMP-2, and TIMP-2, but a significantly reduced MMP-2/T'IMP- 2 ratio. Compared with the MI group, the atorvastatin group showed significantly reduced expression of type I and III collagen, unchanged expression of MMP-2, significantly reduced expression of TIMP-2, and an increased MMP-2/ TIMP-2 ratio. We further found that atorvastatin significantly inhibited the Ang II-induced fibroblast proliferation and the expression of type I and type III collagen in cardiac fibroblasts while increasing the MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio. Conclusions These data suggest that atorvastatin can inhibit cardiac fibroblast proliferation and enhance collagen degradation by increasing the MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio, thereby inhibiting the formation of myocardial fibrosis in rats with heart failure after myocardial infarction.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Fund(Study on the Action Mechanism of Inhibition of Uterine Leiomyoma of Regulation of Lichong Decoction for Ang-Tie-2 Transduction Pathway,No.81373812Research on the Regulating Mechanism of the Inhibitory Effect of Nourishing Healthy Qi and Eliminating Blood Stasis Chinese Medicine on Extracellular Matrix Metabolize in Uterine Leiomyoma,No.81073096)
文摘OBJECTIVE:To study the effect of Lichong decoction(LD) on expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2(MMP-2) and metalloproteinase-2(TIMP-2) in a rat model of uterine leiomyoma(UL).METHODS:UL was induced in rats using exogenous estrogen and progesterone.LD was administered(p.o.) for 4 weeks,and mifepristone(RU-486)used as a control.To observe the effect of LD on the uterine coefficient and uterine transverse diameter,a radioimmunoassay method was used to detect serum levels of sex hormones.Light microscopic analyses of pathologic changes in the tissues of UL rats were evaluated.Expression of the proteins of matrix metalloproteinases(MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases(TIMPs) in uterine tissues was assessed by immunohistochemical staining and western blotting.RESULTS:A UL model in rats was established successfully.LD reduced uterine weight,uterine coefficient,and uterine transverse diameter compared with untreated controls.LD reduced levels of estradiol,progesterone,follicle-stimulating hormone,and luteinizing hormone in our UL models.LD improved the pathologic condition of uterine muscle.Expression of MMP-2 protein decreased to varying extents in LD-treated groups,but TIMP-2 levels were enhanced.LD appears to reduce MMP-2 expression and increase TIMP-2 expression in UL tissue.CONCLUSION:These data suggest that the mechanism of action of LD on ULs may involve reduction of MMP-2 expression and increase in TIMP-2 expression in rats.