Adenovirus-mediated expression of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 in bone inhibits osteolytic degradation by human prostate cancer

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are proteolytic enzymes that play critical roles in the pathogenesis of human cancers. Clinical trials using synthetic small molecule MMP inhibitors have been carried out but with little success. Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are endogenous inhibitors that block the extracellular matrix-degrading activity of MMPs. Here, we investigated the possibilities of genetically modifying human bones with TIMPs to create a high-TIMP bone microenvironment, which is hostile to metastatic prostate cancer cells using adenovirus-mediated gene transfer technology and SCID-hu end-organ colonization mouse model. Two strategies were used to achieve bone-specific TIMP expression: (i) ex vivo bone adenoviral infection followed by in vivo bone implantation; and (ii) ex vivo BMS cell infection followed by injection into in vivo implanted human fetal bones. PC-3 prostate cancer cells were injected into human fetal bones 4 weeks after implantation in SCID mice. In vitro, adenovirus-mediated expression of TIMP-1 or TIMP-2 in bone fragments inhibited MMP-2 activity, bone turnover and prostate cancer cell-induced proteolytic degradation as determined by gelatin zymography, calcium measurement and DQ protein quenched fluorescence assay, respectively. In vivo, immunohistochemistry confirmed TIMP-2 expression in AdTIMP-2-infected bone implants 4 weeks after implantation in SCID mice. Mice receiving AdTIMP-treated bone fragments showed significantly reduced PC-3-induced osteolysis, osteoclast recruitment and bone turnover in the implanted bones. We propose that adenoviral gene transfer of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 can prevent the proteolytic activity of prostate cancer cells in bone and that enhancing anti-proteolytic defense mechanisms in target organs represents a promising form of prostate cancer gene therapy.

MMP-2, MT1-MMP, and TIMP-2 are essential for the invasive capacity of human mesenchymal stem cells: differential regulation by inflammatory cytokines

Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) represent promising tools in various clinical applications, including the regeneration of injured tissues by endogenous or transplanted hMSCs. The molecular mechanisms, however, that control hMSC mobilization and homing which require invasion through extracellular matrix (ECM) barriers are almost unknown. We have analyzed bone marrow-derivedhMSCs and detected strong expression and synthesis of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), membrane type 1 MMP (MT1-MMP), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1), and TIMP-2. The ability of hMSCs to traverse reconstituted human basement membranes was effectively blocked in the presence of synthetic MMP inhibitors. Detailed studies by RNA interference revealed that gene knock-down of MMP-2, MT1-MMP, or TIMP-2 substantially impaired hMSC invasion, whereas silencing of TIMP-1 enhanced cell migration, indicating opposing roles of both TIMPs in this process. Moreover, the inflammatory cytokines TGF-beta1, IL-1beta, and TNF-alpha up-regulated MMP-2, MT1-MMP, and/or MMP-9 production in these cells, resulting in a strong stimulation of chemotactic migration through ECM, whereas the chemokine SDF-1alpha exhibited minor effects on MMP/TIMP expression and cell invasion. Thus, induction of specific MMP activity in hMSCs by inflammatory cytokines promotes directed cell migration across reconstituted basement membranes in vitro providing a potential mechanism in hMSC recruitment and extravasation into injured tissues in vivo.

Effects of cyclic mechanical stretch on extracellular matrix synthesis by human scleral fibroblasts

In order to understand the effect of mechanical strain on scleral extracellular matrix remodeling, human scleral fibroblasts were subjected to equibiaxial stretch in vitro and the expression of proteoglycans, metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) were evaluated. Isolated human scleral fibroblasts were seeded onto flexible bottom culture plates, and subjected to a cyclic stretch regimen of 15% equibiaxial stretch for 45 s followed by 15s of rest for 6-48 h in the presence of 35SO4. Newly synthesized proteoglycans were measured in the medium by CPC precipitation of radiolabelled glycosaminoglycans. MMP-2 activity and expression levels were measured in the medium by, Western blot, gel zymography and real-time PCR. Steady state levels of TIMP-2 mRNA and membrane-type MMP, MT1-MMP (MMP-14) mRNA were measured in the cell layer using real-time PCR. The predominant gelatinolytic enzyme secreted by scleral fibroblasts was the pro-enzyme form of MMP-2 (ProMMP-2). Mechanical stretch resulted in a significant increase of ProMMP-2 after 12 and 48 h (+76.28%, p<0.05; +19.56%, p<0.01, respectively). Mechanical stretch significantly increased the production of the active form of MMP-2 (ActiveMMP-2) after 48 h (+59.72%, p<0.05) and decreased levels of TIMP-2 mRNA (-22%, p<0.05). The rate of scleral proteoglycan synthesis and the steady state levels of MMP-2 and MMP-14 mRNA were not significantly affected by mechanical stretch. These results suggest that mechanical strain stimulates the activation of MMP-2 by scleral fibroblasts, possibly through increased levels of ProMMP-2 and reduced levels of TIMP-2. Increased levels of ActiveMMP-2 in the sclera would be expected to contribute to scleral extracellular matrix degradation, scleral thinning and possible ocular ectasia.

Altered expression of matrix-related molecules in the development of chronic Thy1.1 nephritis

BACKGROUND/AIM

Matrix production and degradation are critically important in chronic nephritis. Our aim was to investigate the precise expression of matrix-related molecules which is essential for understanding the pathogenesis of renal disease.

METHODS

Chronic nephritis was induced by a single injection of anti-Thy1.1 antibody to unilaterally nephrectomized rats. RNA was extracted from renal cortex and isolated glomeruli 4, 7, and 10 weeks after the antibody injection. Matrix-related gene expressions were measured by polymerase chain reaction. The expression of alpha1(IV) and alpha3(IV) collagens was studied by immunohistochemistry. The gelatinolytic activity in the glomeruli was assayed by gelatin zymography.

RESULTS

Polymerase chain reaction revealed an increase of alpha1(IV) in both glomeruli and renal cortex from nephritic rats. In contrast, the expression of alpha3(IV), normally a component of the glomerular basement membrane, was decreased in nephritic animals. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the finding that alpha1(IV) and alpha3(IV) were up- and downregulated, respectively, in the glomeruli. Gene expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase 2 were enhanced, while those of matrix metalloproteinase 9 were clearly suppressed in nephritis.

CONCLUSIONS

Downregulation of alpha3(IV) and enhancement of the matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity in the glomeruli may contribute to the glomerular damage by altering the glomerular basement membrane components. Impairment of the glomerular basement membrane integrity may possibly be implicated in irreversible renal dysfunction.

Activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) in canine oronasal tumors

Activity of matrix metalloprotease-2 (MMP-2) and the expression of its related molecules were examined in spontaneous canine oronasal tumors. Tissue samples from melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma possessed higher MMP-2 activity, as shown in gelatin zymography, in comparison with acanthomatous epulis and nasal adenocarcinoma. Regional lymph node invasion and distant metastases were more frequently observed in the MMP-2 positive cases. There were no significant differences by RT-PCR examination in the expression of the genes encoding MMP-2, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 among the tumor histological types. However, the MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio showed a significantly higher level of the genes in the malignant oral melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. The MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio was also positively correlated with MMP-2 activity in gelatin zymography. These results indicate that the MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio may be of value in evaluating the prognosis in canine oronasal cavity tumors.

[Overexpression of tissue inhibitor of metalloprotease-2 promotes proliferation and infiltration of human monocytic leukemia cells]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the functional role of human tissue inhibitor of metalloprotease (TIMP)-2 gene on the proliferation and infiltrating capability of human monocytic leukemic cells.

METHODS

Human monocytic leukemic cells of the line SHI-1 were cultured and the TIMP-2 expression on the cell membrane was detected by flow cytometry (FCM). The SHI-1 cells were transfected with human TIMP-2 gene (SHI-1/TIMP-2 cells) or blank vector (SHI-1/MSCV cells). The TIMP-2 expressed on the surface of the cell membranes of SHI-1/TIMP-2 and SHI-1/MSCV cells was detected by FCM. The SHI-1/TIMP-2 and SHI-1/MSCV cells were inoculated into the 96-well plate, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours later MMT method and ELISA were used, and the cell growth curve was drawn to detect the proliferation ability of the cells. Matrigel was put into the upper layer of Transwell chamber. Human bone marrow matrix cells (BMMC) of leukemia patient and SHI-1/TIMP-2 cells or SHI-1/MSCV cells were put into the upper layers as experimental groups, and SHI-1/TIMP-2 cells or SHI-1/MSCV cells only, without human BMMC, were put into the upper layers as control groups. 72 hours later blood cell counting plate was used to measure the number of cells migrating through Matrigel. SHI-1/TIMP-2 cells or SHI-1/MSCV cells were injected intravenously into pre-treated BALB/c nu/nu mice. Thirty days later 8 mice from each group were killed to observe the tumorigenesis in the organs, especially the central nervous system leukemia (CNL). The survival of the other mice was observed.

RESULTS

The expression level of TIMP-2 on the cell membrane of the SHI-1/TIMP-2 cells was 99.3% +/- 0.1%, significantly higher than that of the SHI-1/MSCV cells (85.9% +/- 2.6%, P < 0.05). The A values 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours later of the SHI-1/TIMP-2 cells were 0.34 +/- 0.05, 0.6 +/- 0.05, 0.97 +/- 0.12, and 1.28 +/- 0.06 respectively, all significantly higher than those of the SHI-1/MSCV cells (0.28 +/- 0.03, 0.36 +/- 0.03, 0.54 +/- 0.09, and 0.99 +/- 0.03 respectively, all P < 0.05). The SHI-1/TIMP-2 cells and SHI-1/MSCV cells only could not migrate through Matrigel basically. 24 - 48 hours after co-cultivation Shi-1 cells began to appear in the lower layer of Transwell chambers, 72 hours later the trans-Matrigel SHI-1/TIMP-2 cells accounted for 24.7% +/- 6.9% of the inoculated SHI-1/TIMP-2 cells, a proportion significantly higher than that in the case of the SHI-1/MSCV cells (12% +/- 1.4%, P < 0.05). 24 days after the inoculation the mean body weight of the mice inoculated with SHI-1/TIMP-2 cells was 21.5 g +/- 0.4 g, significantly higher than that of the mice inoculated with SHI-1/MSCV cells (17.4 g +/- 0.6 g, P < 0.01). The mice inoculated with SHI-1/TIMP-2 cells showed much more tumors in different organs and much more severe infiltration in the CNS in comparison with the mice inoculated with SHI-1/MSCV cells The mean survival time of the mice inoculated with the SHI-1/TIMP-2 cells was 33.7 days, significantly shorter than that of the mice inoculated with SHI-1/MSCV cells (40 days).

CONCLUSION

TIMP-2 expressed on the cell membrane is critical to promote the proliferation and infiltration of SHI-1 cells.

SHP-2-Erk signaling regulates Concanavalin A-dependent production of TIMP-2

To search for the signaling critical for the production of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2), we investigated the role of SHP-2 in TIMP-2 production with Concanavalin A (Con A)-treated cells. In wild-type fibroblasts, Con A-treatment dramatically activated TIMP-2 production. In contrast, production of TIMP-2 in response to Con A-treatment was severely impaired in cells expressing mutant SHP-2 whose 65 amino acids in the SH2-N domain were deleted. Con A-treatment activated dual signaling pathways, Erk and p38, in a SHP-2-dependent manner. Pretreatment of wild-type cells with U0126, a potent inhibitor of MEK1, significantly inhibited the production of TIMP-2, whereas SB203580, a specific inhibitor for p38, could not. Finally, expression of exogenous wild-type SHP-2 in SHP-2 mutant cells clearly rescued Erk activation and TIMP-2 production in response to Con A-treatment. Taken together, our results strongly suggest that SHP-2 plays a critical role as a positive modulator for the production of TIMP-2 via MEK1-Erk signaling in fibroblasts.

Mechanisms of irregular bleeding with hormone therapy: the role of matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors

CONTEXT

Irregular bleeding is common in users of combined hormone therapy (HT) and often leads to invasive and expensive investigations to exclude underlying pathology. The mechanisms of HT-related bleeding are poorly understood. Endometrial matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) are believed to regulate bleeding during the normal menstrual cycle and are known to be altered in breakthrough bleeding with progestogen-only contraception.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine how HT exposure alters endometrial production of MMP-1, -3, -9, and -14 and their tissue inhibitors TIMP-1, -2, -3, and -4 and to determine the relationship between MMP and TIMP production and bleeding patterns in HT users. Endometrial leukocytes regulating MMP production and activation were also assessed.

DESIGN

A prospective observational study was conducted between 2003 and 2005.

SETTING AND PATIENTS

The study occurred at a tertiary referral menopause clinic at King Edward Memorial Hospital, Western Australia, and included 25 postmenopausal women not taking HT and 73 women taking combined HT.

INTERVENTIONS

Endometrium was obtained during and outside bleeding episodes.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

We assessed production of MMP-1, -3, -9, and -14 and their tissue inhibitors TIMP-1, -2, -3, and -4 and their relationship to bleeding patterns in HT users.

RESULTS

All MMPs studied, with the exception of MMP-9, were expressed at low levels in postmenopausal endometrium. Increases in both MMP-3 and -9 localization were seen in association with irregular bleeding, but these did not reach statistical significance. Endometrial production of TIMP-1 was significantly increased in association with bleeding. Endometrial leukocytes were not related to bleeding, with the exception of uterine natural killer cells, which were significantly increased during bleeding, as previously published.

CONCLUSIONS

Irregular bleeding in HT users is associated with a distinct pattern of MMP and TIMP production that differs from that seen in normal menstrual bleeding and from that seen in contraceptive-related breakthrough bleeding. This suggests that the endometrial balance between MMP and TIMP contributes to vascular breakdown with HT but by a different mechanism than that seen in normal menstruation or in breakthrough bleeding.

[Expression of trophoblast invasion related genes mRNA and protein in human placenta in preeclampsia]

OBJECTIVE

To study the mRNA and protein expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 9, 2, metastasis suppressor gene KiSS-1, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and TIMP-2 in placenta of preeclampsia patients and their relation to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.

METHODS

Expression of MMP-9, MMP-2, KiSS-1, TIMP-1, TIMP-2 mRNAs and proteins in placenta from 27 cases of preeclampsia, 10 cases of gestational hypertension and 30 cases of normal term pregnant women was detected by semi-quantitative RT-PCR, western blotting, and enzyme activity of MMP-9 and MMP-2 was measured by gelatin zymography.

RESULTS

(1) Expression of MMP-9 and MMP-2 mRNA in placenta of preeclampsia (0.39 +/- 0.05 and 0.71 +/- 0.16) was significantly lower than that in normal term pregnancy (0.78 +/- 0.11 and 1.63 +/- 0.31, P < 0.05). Expression of KiSS-1 and TIMP-1 mRNAs in placenta of preeclampsia (1.97 +/- 0.21 and 1.11 +/- 0.18) was significantly higher than that in normal term pregnancy (0.69 +/- 0.27 and 0.65 +/- 0.19) (P < 0.05.). There was no significant difference in TIMP-2 mRNA level between preeclampsia and normal pregnancy (P > 0.05). (2) Expression of MMP-9 and MMP-2 proteins in preeclampsia (1.07 +/- 0.35 and 0.74 +/- 0.23) was significantly lower than that in normal term pregnancy (2.43 +/- 0.92 and 1.48 +/- 0.78) (P < 0.05). Expression of KiSS-1 and TIMP-1 proteins in placenta of preeclampsia (2.46 +/- 0.39 and 1.51 +/- 0.40) was significantly higher than that in normal pregnancy (0.91 +/- 0.35 and 0.93 +/- 0.56) (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in TIMP-2 protein level between preeclampsia and normal pregnancy (P > 0.05). (3) Enzyme activity of MMP-9 and MMP-2 in placenta of preeclampsia [(2.67 +/- 0.53) gray level.g(-1).L(-1) and (1.13 +/- 0.28) gray level.g(-1).L(-1))] was significantly lower than that in placenta of normal pregnancy [(8.44 +/- 3.70) gray level.g(-1).L(-1) and (3.87 +/- 1.43) gray level.g(-1).L(-1)] (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Abnormal expression of MMP-9, MMP-2, KiSS-1 and TIMP-1 can cause insufficiency invasion of trophoblast in preeclampsia and superficial placentation, which may play an important role in the pathogenesis and development of preeclampsia.

Inhibitory effect of berberine on the invasion of human lung cancer cells via decreased productions of urokinase-plasminogen activator and matrix metalloproteinase-2

Berberine, a compound isolated from medicinal herbs, has been reported with many pharmacological effects related to anti-cancer and anti-inflammation capabilities. In this study, we observed that berberine exerted a dose- and time-dependent inhibitory effect on the motility and invasion ability of a highly metastatic A549 cells under non-cytotoxic concentrations. In cancer cell migration and invasion process, matrix-degrading proteinases are required. A549 cell treated with berberine at various concentrations showed reduced ECM proteinases including matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and urokinase-plasminogen activator (u-PA) by gelatin and casein zymography analysis. The inhibitory effect is likely to be at the transcriptional level, since the reduction in the transcripts levels was corresponding to the proteins. Moreover, berberine also exerted its action via regulating tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) and urokinase-plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI). The upstream mediators of the effect involved c-jun, c-fos and NF-kappaB, as evidenced by reduced phosphorylation of the proteins. These findings suggest that berberine possesses an anti-metastatic effect in non-small lung cancer cell and may, therefore, be helpful in clinical treatment.

The role of matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase in microcystic meningiomas

We studied the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP) in microcystic meningiomas to investigate a possible underlying mechanism for the development of microcysts and of peritumoral edema, which are frequent characteristics of this rare subtype. Between October 1995 and June 2004, 10 of 19 patients who had histologically confirmed pure microcystic meningiomas were enrolled in the study. Six patients with meningothelial meningiomas, three with atypical meningiomas, and one with a transitional meningioma were included as a control group. Immunohistochemistry with paraffin blocks and real-time RT-PCR analysis for MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, TIMP-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were performed using stored frozen tissues. Compared with the control group, MMP-9 was invariably and highly expressed in immunohistochemical staining of microcystic meningiomas. MMP-2, TIMP-1, TIMP-2 and VEGF were weakly expressed or not expressed in both microcystic and non-microcystic meningiomas. Real-time RT-PCR showed increased ratios of MMP-9 to TIMP-1 in microcystic meningiomas compared with the control group (55.855 +/- 106.353 vs. 1.858 +/- 2.575, respectively; p = 0.00). The expression of MMP-2 (0.72 +/- 1.20 vs. 2.54 +/- 3.01, p = 0.01) and TIMP-2 (1.22 +/- 1.67 vs. 1.61 +/- 1.82, p = 0.02) was higher in the control group. The results suggested that the increased ratio of MMP-9 to TIMP-1 might be associated with the formation of microcysts and peritumoral edema in microcystic meningioma.

Langerhans cells express matrix metalloproteinases 9 and 2 and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases 1 and 2 in healthy human gingival tissue and in periodontitis

BACKGROUND

As antigen-presenting cells, Langerhans cells may play an important role in the initiation and maintenance of periodontal disease. This study is the first report that extends our knowledge of the expression of matrix metalloproteinases and their endogenous tissue inhibitors by Langerhans cells in healthy and diseased gingival tissues.

METHODS

Single and double immunolabeling procedures were carried out using monoclonal antibodies against CD1a, matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9, and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases 1 and 2, and analyzed by conventional and confocal microscopes.

RESULTS

Langerhans cells expressed matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9, and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases 1 and 2 in healthy and diseased gingival tissues. The tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase-positive Langerhans cells were mainly observed in the upper epithelial layers. Matrix metalloproteinase 9-positive Langerhans cells were observed especially during periodontitis and in the basal epithelial layer or crossing the basement membrane.

CONCLUSION

During periodontal disease, changes in the expression of matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors by gingival Langerhans cells could be implicated in the migration of the cells towards the connective tissue.

Coordinated elevation of membrane type 1-matrix metalloproteinase and matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression in rat uterus during postpartum involution

BACKGROUND

The changes occurring in the rodent uterus after parturition can be used as a model of extensive tissue remodeling. As the uterus returns to its prepregnancy state, the involuting uterus undergoes a rapid reduction in size primarily due to the degradation of the extracellular matrix, particularly collagen. Membrane type-I matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) is one of the major proteinases that degrades collagen and is the most abundant MMP form in the uterus. Matrix metalloproteinase-2(MMP-2) can degrade type I collagen, although its main function is to degrade type IV collagen found in the basement membrane. To understand the expression patterns of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the rat uterus, we analyzed their activities in postpartum uterine involution.

METHODS

We performed gelatin zymography, northern blot analysis and immunohistochemistry to compare the expression levels of MT1-MMP, MMP-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and the tissue inhibitors of MMPs-1 and 2 (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2) in the rat uterus 18 h, 36 h and 5 days after parturition with their expression levels during pregnancy (day 20).

RESULTS

We found that both MT1-MMP and MMP-2 localized mainly in the cytoplasm of uterine interstitial cells. The expression levels of MT1-MMP and MMP-2 mRNAs and the catalytic activities of the expressed proteins significantly increased 18 h and 36 h after parturition, but at postpartum day 5, their mRNA expression levels and catalytic activities decreased markedly. The expression levels of MMP-9 increased 18 h and 36 h after parturition as determined by gelatin zymography including the expression levels of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2.

CONCLUSION

These expression patterns indicate that MT1-MMP, MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 may play key roles in uterine postpartum involution and subsequent functional regenerative processes.

Inhibition of metastatic progression of SSTR2 gene transfection mediated by adenovirus in human pancreatic carcinoma cells

The inhibition of metastatic progression of Somatostatin receptor type 2 (SSTR2) gene transfection mediated by adenovirus in human pancreatic carcinoma cells and the mechanisms involved in this effect were studied. The full-length human SSTR2 cDNA was introduced into the pancreatic cancer cell line BXPC-3 by adenovirus-mediated transfection. Stable expression of mRNAs and protein of SSTR2 was detected by RT-PCR and Western-blot. The Matrigel-coated Transwell was used to detect the migratory and invasive ability of SSTR2-expressing cells, Adv-GFP control cells and mock control cells. Furthermore, the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) was detected by RT-PCR in these cells. The stable expression of SSTR2 was detected in BXPC-3 transfected by Adv-GFP-SSTR2. A dramatic decrease of BXPC-3 expressing sst2 cells migrating through a Matrigel-coated filter was observed, as compared with Adv-GFP control and mock control cells (P < 0.01). Moreover, the expression of MMP-2 mRNA was significantly reduced in the SSTR2-expressing cells and conversely the expression of TIMP-2 mRNA was significantly increased in the SSTR2-expressing cells when compared with the Adv-GFP control and mock control (P < 0.01). The expression of reintroduced human SSTR2 gene in BXPC-3 cells by Adv-GFP-SSTR2 had the anti-migratory and anti-invasive effects, and the mechanisms involved in this effect may be due to the down-regulated expression of MMP-2 and up-regulated expression of TIMP-2.

[Expression of matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in fetal skin and their biological significance]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression characteristics of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP-1, TIMP-2) in developing fetal skin and their potential biological significance.

METHODS

Skin of 24 cases of fetuses with different gestational age (12-40 weeks) were obtained, embedded with paraffin wax, and sectioned. Immunohistochemistry and pathological methods were used to detect the expression intensity and distribution of MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2.

RESULTS

Positive immunohistochemical signals of MMPs and TIMPs could be found in fetal skin at different gestational periods. These proteins mainly located in the cytoplasm of epidermal cells, fibroblasts, epithelial cells of hair follicles and sweat glands and vascular endothelial cells. In earlier gestational fetal skin (12-18 weeks), the expression levels of MMP-2, MMP-3 and MMP-9 were high. Along with the advancement in gestational age, the positive rates of these three proteins in skin were lowered, and in later gestational fetal skin (27-40 weeks) the expression rates were significantly decreased compared with those in earlier gestational fetal skin (all P<0.05). On the contrary, protein expression levels of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 were apparently lower in earlier versus later gestational skin (both P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 might be involved in the skin development and maintenance of cutaneous structure and function. Higher expression of MMP-2, MMP-3 and MMP-9 and lower protein levels of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 may provide an antiscarring signal in healing of wound during early periods of gestation.

Arsenic trioxide (As(2)O(3)) inhibits peritoneal invasion of ovarian carcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo

OBJECTIVES

To study the role of arsenic trioxide (As(2)O(3)) in regulating peritoneal invasive activity of ovarian carcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

The effects of As(2)O(3) on human ovarian cancer cell lines (3AO, SW626 and HO-8910PM) migration, invasion and adhesion with tumor cells and human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMC) were observed by means of cell migration test, cell invasion test and cell adhesion test. The effects of As(2)O(3) on MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 gene expressions and protein expressions of tumor cells were determined by RT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. In animal experiments, ovarian tumor cells were implanted into abdominal cavity of nude mice and then the nude mice were treated by intraperitoneal injection of different doses As(2)O(3). The foci on the surface of peritoneum were counted.

RESULTS

As(2)O(3) inhibited tumor cells migration, invasion and adhesion with HPMC in a dose-dependent manner, while the same treatment enhanced tumor cell-tumor cell interactions. As(2)O(3) inhibited mRNA and protein expressions of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-2 of tumor cells. In contrast, As(2)O(3) increased mRNA and protein expressions of TIMP-1. As(2)O(3) could reduce tumor cells peritoneal metastasis in nude mice.

CONCLUSION

As(2)O(3) inhibits in vitro and in vivo peritoneal invasive activity of ovarian carcinoma cells in a dose-dependent manner. Its anti-invasive activity may be the results of reduced cell motility, inhibited attachment of tumor cells to HPMC and enhanced tumor cell-tumor cell interaction, as well as down-regulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels and up-regulation of TIMP-1 level.

Matrix metalloproteinases play an active role in Wnt1-induced mammary tumorigenesis

The Wnt signaling transduction pathway plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of several murine and human epithelial cancers. Here, we have used mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV)-Wnt1 transgenic mice, which develop spontaneous mammary adenocarcinoma, to examine whether matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)--a family of extracellular proteases implicated in multiple steps of cancer progression--contributed to Wnt1-induced tumorigenesis. An analysis of the expression of several MMPs by RT-PCR and in situ hybridization revealed an increase in the expression of MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9, MMP-13, and MT1-MMP (MMP-14) in hyperplastic glands and in mammary tumors of MMTV-Wnt1 transgenic mice. Interestingly, whereas MMP-2, MMP-3, and MMP-9 were exclusively expressed by stromal cells in mammary tumors, MMP-13 and MT1-MMP were expressed by transformed epithelial cells in addition to the tumor stroma. To determine whether these MMPs contributed to tumorigenesis, MMTV-Wnt1 mice were crossed with transgenic mice overexpressing tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2-a natural MMP inhibitor-in the mammary gland. In the double MMTV-Wnt1/tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2 transgenic mice, we observed an increase in tumor latency and a 26.3% reduction in tumor formation. Furthermore, these tumors grew at a slower rate, exhibited an 18% decrease in proliferative rate, and a 12.2% increase in apoptotic rate of the tumor cells in association with a deficit in angiogenesis when compared with tumors from MMTV-Wnt1 mice. Thus, for the first time, the data provides evidence for the active role of MMPs in Wnt1-induced mammary tumorigenesis.

Prognostic value of E-cadherin, beta-catenin, MMPs (7 and 9), and TIMPs (1 and 2) in patients with colorectal carcinoma

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Therapy of colorectal tumors (CRC) based on histology and clinical factors is insufficient to predict the evolution of each patient. The finding of molecular abnormalities able to differentiate subgroups of patients with bad prognosis will improve our ability to treat them successfully. Our purpose was to analyze retrospectively the prognostic input of E-cadherin, beta-catenin, metalloproteinases (MMPs) (7 and 9), and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) (1 and 2) in patients with a follow-up period of 5 years.

METHODS

Antigen expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Prognostic evaluation was performed with the multivariate proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

We demonstrated a concomitant loss of E-cadherin and beta-catenin at membranous level and an abnormal accumulation of nuclear beta-catenin. Besides, we found that all MMPs and TIMPs studied were overexpressed in CRC tissue. There was no association between the expression of any of these molecules and the known clinical-pathological parameters employed in CRC pathology. A multivariate analysis demonstrated that the overall survival could be independently predicted by the loss of E-cadherin and the overexpression of TIMP-2.

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of E-cadherin and TIMP-2 could be relevant in determining the prognosis of CRC patients and providing a more accurate mechanism for their classification.

Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and its tissue inhibitor (TIMP-2) are prognostic factors in cervical cancer, related to invasive disease but not to high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) or virus persistence after treatment of CIN

OBJECTIVE

Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and its tissue inhibitor (TIMP-2) are important regulators of cancer invasion and metastasis. Their associations to high-risk (HR) human papillomavirus (HPV) in cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cervical cancer (CC) are unexplored and their prognostic significance in CC remains controversial.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

As part of our HPV-PathogenISS study, a series of 150 CCs and 152 CIN lesions were examined using immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for MMP-2 and TIMP-2 and tested for HPV using PCR with 3 primer sets (MY09/11, GP5+/GP6+, SPF). Follow-up data were available from all squamous cell carcinoma patients and 67 CIN lesions had been monitored with serial PCR for HPV after cone treatment.

RESULTS

MMP-2 increased with the grade of CIN, with major up-regulation upon transition to invasive cancer (OR 20.78) (95%CI 7.16-60.23) (p=0.0001). TIMP-2 retained its normal expression until CIN3, with dramatic down-regulation in invasive disease (p=0.0001 for trend). Thus, the MMP2:TIMP-2 ratio increased with progressive CIN, exceeding the value 1.0 only in invasive disease. Both MMP-2 and TIMP-2 are highly specific (TIMP-2; 100%) discriminators of CIN with 100% positive predictive value (TIMP-2), but suffer from low sensitivity and negative predictive value. Neither MMP-2 nor TIMP-2 showed any significant association with HR HPV or virus persistence/clearance. TIMP-2 (but not MMP-2) was a significant predictor of survival in univariate (Kaplan-Meier) analysis (p=0.007), but lost its significance in multivariate (Cox) analysis.

CONCLUSION

The activities of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in cervical carcinogenesis seem to be unrelated to HR-HPV The inverse MMP-2:TIMP-2 ratio is a sign of poor prognosis. A combination of a TIMP-2 assay with another test showing high SE and high NPV (e.g., HCII for HPV) should provide a potential screening tool capable of accurate detection of CIN.

Suppressive activity of vitamin D3 on matrix metalloproteinase production from cholesteatoma keratinocytes in vitro

There is much evidence that degradation of the extracellular matrix is essential for the development of cholesteatomas and that this is induced by activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Vitamin D3 (VD3) has several well-recognised biological activities, including suppression of MMP production. The present study, therefore, was undertaken to examine whether VD3 could suppress MMP production from cholesteatoma keratinocytes in vitro. Keratinocytes (2.5 × 10⁵ cells/mL) induced from cholesteatoma tissue specimens were cultured with various concentrations of VD3. After one hour, lipopolysaccharide was added to the cell cultures at 100 μg/mL. The culture supernatants were then collected and assayed for MMP-1 and MMP-3 by ELISA. We also used ELISA to measure the levels of both TIMP (tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase)-1 and TIMP-2 in culture supernatants. Addition of VD3 into keratinocyte cultures caused the suppression of MMP and TIMP production, which was increased by LPS stimulation. This was dose-dependent. The present results showing the suppressive activity of VD3 on the production of MMPs, which are responsible for tissue remodeling, strongly suggest that VD3 would be a good candidate for an agent in the medical treatment of, or prophylaxis for, cholesteatomas.

[Correlation between MMP-2 activation and MT1-MMP mRNA expression in thymic epithelial tumors]

OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship between activation of pro-MMP-2 and expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2, MT1-MMP and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-2 mRNA in thymoma and thymic carcinoma; and to study the molecular mechanism of invasion and metastasis of thymic epithelial tumors.

METHODS

Fresh tissue specimens of thymoma, thymic carcinoma and normal thymus were included. The mRNA expression of MMP-2, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 were analyzed by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The pro-MMP-2 activation ratio and its localization were determined by gelatin zymography and film in-situ gelatin-Zymography, respectively. Correlation of mRNA expression of MMP-2, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 was investigated in tumors with different histological subtypes and clinical stages.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in the expressions of MMP-2, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 mRNA between I and II stage or III and IV stage thymomas (P > 0.05). However, significant differences of the expressions were observed between three tumor groups: I-II stage, III-IV stage and thymic carcinomas (P < 0.005), and between three histological subtypes: AB-B1 (lymphocyte-rich and mixed types), B2-B3 (cortical and predominantly polygonal cells types) and thymic carcinomas (P < 0.05). Expression levels of MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 mRNA were correlated with pro-MMP-2 activation ratio (Spearman rank correlation: r = 0.7235, r = 0.7647, P < 0.005). The expression of MMP-9 did not show significant differences between thymomas and thymic carcinomas.

CONCLUSIONS

MMP-2, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 mRNA expression levels are correlated with the histologic subtypes and clinical stages of thymoma. The mRNA expressions of MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 are correlated with the activation ratio of pro-MMP-2. It is speculated that upregulation of MT1-MMP gene expression may induce an activation of pro-MMP-2 through TIMP-2.

[Effect of pirenzepine on form deprivation myopia in chicks and its possible mechanism]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of M1-selective muscarinic antagonist, pirenzepine, on form deprivation myopia and investigate the expression of MMP-2 and its inhibitor TIMP-2 in the fibrous sclera in order to better understand the mechanism by which pirenzepine inhibits myopia.

METHODS

40 chicks after birth one day were divided into 4 groups randomly: I. Control group; II. Form deprivation group; III. Vehicle application group; IV. Pirenzepine injected group. Form deprivation myopia was established in right eyes of group II, III, IV by placement of a translucent occluder. The deprived eyes of group III and IV received daily subconjunctival administration of vehicle PBS and pirenzepine respectively. Optical measures such as refraction, axial length, equatorial diameter were made at the end of the experiment. Total RNA and protein were extracted from the posterior fibrous sclera chicks. The expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 mRNA and protein were investigated with RT-PCR and Western blot analysis respectively.

RESULTS

Refraction status, axial length, equatorial diameter of the eyes in pirenzepine injected group were significantly lower when compared with form deprivation group (P < 0.01), but the parameters were higher when compared with normal control group therefore relatively myopic changes were detected. There were no significant difference between drug control and pirenzepine injected group when optical measures and the expression of MMP-2, TIMP-2 were concerned (P > 0.05). The expressions (mRNA and protein) of both MMP-2 and TIMP-2 were significantly different in form deprivation group when compared with normal control group (MMP-2 mRNA increased by 143.51%, P < 0.01; protein increased by 114.60%, P < 0.01; TIMP-2 mRNA decreased by 55.05%, P < 0.01; protein decreased by 53.73%, P < 0.01). In pirenzepine injected group the relative expression of MMP-2 mRNA and protein were decreased obviously by 41.95% (P < 0.01) and by 36.16% (P < 0.01), while TIMP-2 mRNA and protein expression was increased significantly by 72.46% (P < 0.01) and by 53.05% (P < 0.01) respectively compared with the form deprived group.

CONCLUSION

Subconjunctivally administration of the M1 selective muscarinic antagonist, pirenzepine, partly prevents or restrains form deprivation induced myopia. It may exert its inhibitory effect by modulating the expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in fibrous sclera.

Increased expression of membrane-type matrix metalloproteinase-1 is correlated with poor prognosis in patients with osteosarcoma

Numerous studies have demonstrated a correlation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) overexpression with the prognosis of various kinds of cancer. The current study investigated whether the expression of MMPs is correlated with the prognosis of osteosarcoma. Expression levels of MMP-2, -9, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 were examined immunohistochemically in samples from 47 patients with osteosarcoma. Correlation of the positivity of staining with prognosis was analyzed with the Kaplan-Meier method, and statistically analyzed with log-rank test. Co-localization of MMP-2, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 was determined by double staining with fluorescence-conjugated antibodies. Activities of gelatinases in representative tissues were examined with gelatin zymography. MMP-2 was expressed strongly in 60% of cases (28/47), and MMP-9, MT1- MMP and TIMP-2 was strongly positive in 61% (29/47), 45% (21/47), and 91% (43/47), respectively. Increased MT1-MMP expression was associated significantly with poor prognosis in overall survival (P=0.0480). In cases of overexpression for both MMP-2 and MT1-MMP, there was a tendency for poor prognosis (P=0.0969). In 36 cases who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy, wide resection of the tumors and post-operative adjuvant chemotherapy, increased expression of MT1-MMP resulted in a significant negative prognostic factor for disease-free survival (P=0.0143). Also, co-overexpression of MT1-MMP and MMP-2 showed a tendency to correlate to the reduced disease-free survival (P=0.0502). Increased gelatinase activity was observed in tissues of co-overexpression of MT1-MMP and MMP-2. The results of this study demonstrate the correlation of MT1-MMP expression and the oncological outcome of osteosarcoma patients, suggesting the prognostic significance of these proteins in osteosarcoma patients.

Shp-1 mediates the antiproliferative activity of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 in human microvascular endothelial cells

The tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) regulate matrix metalloproteinase activity required for cell migration/invasion associated with cancer progression and angiogenesis. TIMPs also modulate cell proliferation in vitro and angiogenesis in vivo independent of their matrix metalloproteinase inhibitory activity. Here, we show that TIMP-2 mediates G1 growth arrest in human endothelial cells through de novo synthesis of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27Kip1. TIMP-2-mediated inhibition of Cdk4 and Cdk2 activity is associated with increased binding of p27Kip1 to these complexes in vivo. Protein-tyrosine phosphatase inhibitors or expression of a dominant negative Shp-1 mutant ablates TIMP-2 induction of p27Kip1. Finally, angiogenic responses to fibroblast growth factor-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A in "motheaten viable" Shp-1-deficient mice are resistant to TIMP-2 inhibition, demonstrating that Shp-1 is an important negative regulator of angiogenesis in vivo.