Association of the matrix metalloproteinase-3 polymorphisms rs679620 and rs3025058 with ischemic stroke risk: a meta-analysis

[Developments in Research on the Relationship Between Matrix Metalloproteinases and Osteoarthritis]

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) acquired their names because they depend on metal ions such as Ca 2+ and Zn 2+ as their cofactors. Members of this family of proteins share a similar structure consisting of five functionally distinct structural domains. MMPs, including MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-9, and MMP-13, are key substances that promote cartilage matrix degradation and play an important role in the occurrence and progression of osteoarthritis (OA). MMPs boost the development of OA through the degradation of extracellular matrix proteins of chondrocytes, the promotion of inflammation, and other mechanisms, and are hence attracting extensive and increasing attention from the medical community. OA is a common degenerative disease that occurs in the joints and is associated with aging, metabolism, infections, genetics, exercise, and other predisposing factors. The pathological changes it causes can lead to a series of clinical symptoms such as joint pain, morning stiffness, and restricted joint movement, severely affecting patients' quality of life. The pathogenic mechanism of this highly prevalent disease is still unclear. At present, there is no effective treatment available for disease improvement. In the future, selective inhibition of MMPs, the key enzymes, may become an effective therapeutic approach. Focusing on the pathogenic effects of MMPs in OA, we herein reviewed the latest findings on the role of MMPs in the occurrence and progression of OA.

Role of matrix metalloproteases 1/3 gene polymorphisms in patients with rotator cuff tear

An association of Matrix Metalloproteinases-1/3 (MMP-1/3) rs1799750/rs3025058 polymorphism with increased risk of rotator cuff tear (RCT) has been reported in a Brazilian population. However, this significant association has not been confirmed in the Chinese population. Genotyping was conducted by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism and direct sequencing. Our results demonstrated that individuals with the TT genotype had a significantly higher risk of RCT compared with those with the CC genotype. The increased risk of RCT progression was associated with the 2G allele of the rs1799750 polymorphism. No significant association was observed for genotypic and allelic frequencies of the rs3025058 polymorphism. A significant association of the MMP-1 rs1799750 polymorphism was observed with smokers, drinkers and people aged ≥60 years and non-diabetic people. Additionally, the MMP-1 rs1799750 polymorphism was associated with pre-operative stiffness in RCT patients. In conclusion, a significant correlation was identified between the MMP-1 rs1799750 polymorphism and RCT. The MMP-1 rs1799750 polymorphism might be considered as a biomarker of genetically high-risk RCT, helping to clarify the mechanism of RCT.