Bioinformatics analysis revealing prognostic significance of TIMP2 gene in breast cancer

Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2 (TIMP2) is a member of the TIMP gene family. Accumulated evidence indicates that TIMP2 plays a significant role in various tumor processes including cell growth, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis. However, the expression patterns and exact roles of TIMP2 had not been elucidated in breast cancer. In our research, we evaluated the expression and prognostic value of TIMP2 in breast cancer through analyzing various databases including Oncomine, bc-GenExMiner, PrognoScan, UCSC Xena, Kaplan-Meier Plotter, and PPI network. The results showed that TIMP2 was down-regulated in various breast cancer subtypes. Additionally, TIMP2 was significantly associated with age, estrogen receptor status, basal-like group, triple-negative breast cancer, PAM50 subtypes, and RSSPC subtypes. Also, the expression of TIMP2 was related to overall survival with different clinical characteristics. We analyzed the co-expressed genes with TIMP2 and interaction information with other proteins. These results disclosed that TIMP2 might serve as a potential target and prognostic biomarker in breast cancer. However, additional research is required to demonstrate our findings and motivate the clinical importance of TIMP2 in breast cancer.

A Dual Role of Heme Oxygenase-1 in Angiotensin II-Induced Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in the Normolipidemic Mice

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) bears a high risk of rupture and sudden death of the patient. The pathogenic mechanisms of AAA remain elusive, and surgical intervention represents the only treatment option. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a heme degrading enzyme, is induced in AAA, both in mice and humans. HO-1 was reported to mitigate AAA development in an angiotensin II (AngII)-induced model of AAA in hyperlipidemic ApoE^-/- mice. Since the role of hyperlipidaemia in the pathogenesis of AAA remains controversial, we aimed to evaluate the significance of HO-1 in the development and progression of AAA in normolipidemic animals. The experiments were performed in HO-1-deficient mice and their wild-type counterparts. We demonstrated in non-hypercholesterolemic mice that the high-dose of AngII leads to the efficient formation of AAA, which is attenuated by HO-1 deficiency. Yet, if formed, they are significantly more prone to rupture upon HO-1 shortage. Differential susceptibility to AAA formation does not rely on enhanced inflammatory response or oxidative stress. AAA-resistant mice are characterized by an increase in regulators of aortic remodeling and angiotensin receptor-2 expression, significant medial thickening, and delayed blood pressure elevation in response to AngII. To conclude, we unveil a dual role of HO-1 deficiency in AAA in normolipidemic mice, where it protects against AAA development, but exacerbates the state of formed AAA.

Vampires 2.0? The ethical quandaries of young blood infusion in the quest for eternal life

Can transfusions of blood plasma slow down ageing or even rejuvenate people? Recent preclinical studies and experimental tests inspired by the technique known as parabiosis have aroused great media attention, although for now there is no clear evidence of their effectiveness. This line of research and the interest it is triggering testify to the prominent role played by the idea of combating the "natural" ageing process in the scientific and social agenda. While seeking to increase the duration of healthy living time may be considered a duty, it also raises ethical questions about how to pursue this goal. Specifically, therapies and techniques accessible only to a fraction of the population seem destined to exponentially increase social inequality and to produce undesirable consequences. In this article we address the issue precisely in the light of the prospected use of plasma for the rejuvenation of a small elite of people.

Resveratrol inhibits the tumor migration and invasion by upregulating TET1 and reducing TIMP2/3 methylation in prostate carcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

Recently, resveratrol (Res) has been suggested to suppress the migration and invasion of prostate cancer (PCa). In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of Res on genomic DNA methylation, as well as the migration and invasion of PCa cells.

METHODS

The suppression by Res of the growth of PCa cells was verified through a cytotoxicity assay. In addition, the effects of Res on 5-methylcytosine (5mC), 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), and ten-eleven translocation 1 (TET1) levels were assessed, and the cell migration and invasion were also determined. The expressions of TET1, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP) 2, TIMP3, MMP2, and MMP9 were detected through Western blot analysis. Afterward, TET1 was silenced using lentiviral short hairpin RNA to examine the effect of TET1 on the Res-triggered inhibition of migration and invasion of PCa cells.

RESULTS

Our results showed that Res upregulated the 5hmC and TET1 levels and downregulated the 5mC level. Moreover, Res also inhibited the migration and invasion of PCa cells, promoted the demethylation of TIMP2 and TIMP3 to upregulate their expressions, and suppressed the expressions of MMP2 and MMP9. The silencing of TET1 in the presence of Res showed that Res could exert its effect through TET1.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicated that Res inhibited the migration and invasion of PCa cells via the TET1/TIMP2/TIMP3 pathway, which might potentially serve as a target for the treatment of PCa.

Immunoexpression of MMP-8, MMP-9 and TIMP-2 in dilated cardiomyopathy

Alteration of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) expression has been studied for various cardiac diseases, including dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), with the significance of surrogate markers of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. In this study, we determined the MMP-8, MMP-9 and TIMP-2 immunoexpression in the heart of patients diagnosed with DCM in relation to a histological composite score (HCS). The study included 40 cases of heart fragments that were processed by the usual paraffin inclusion technique, followed by a semi-quantitative evaluation of histopathological parameters, which summed, allowed the establishment of a HCS. Subsequently, the cases were immunohistochemically processed for MMP-8, MMP-9 and TIMP-2, followed by the semi-quantitative evaluation of their expression intensity. MMP-8 was identified only in myocardiocytes, while MMP-9 and TIMP-2 were present in both myocardiocytes and stroma, but with different intensity. The increasing intensity of MMP-8 and TIMP-2 immunoreactions was significantly associated with low HCS. In case of MMP-9, the immunostaining intensity analysis in relation to the HCS level revealed insignificant differences, but we found an association of increased and moderate intensity with low HCS. The imbalance between TIMPs and MMPs disrupts the ECM architecture and contributes to the remodeling process in DCM, aspect that can be used in the development of new clinical therapies.

MMP-10, MMP-7, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 mRNA expression in esophageal cancer

INTRODUCTION

Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP) and the matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) are involved in the spread of cancer.

METHODS

We have evaluated the matrix metalloproteinases' (MMP-10, MMP-7) and their inhibitors' (tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases - TIMP-1, TIMP-2) mRNA expression in 61 esophageal cancer samples from patients who had undergone surgery, by using real-time quantitative RT-PCR, and correlated the results with the patient clinicopathologic features.

RESULTS

MMP-10, MMP-7, TIMP-1, TIMP-2 were overexpressed in 73%, 85%, 55% and 42% of esophageal cancer samples, respectively. The expression of MMP-10, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 correlated with the tumor size. The MMP-7 overexpression was associated with the tumour stage (I, II vs III, p=0.05) and lymph node metastasis (N0 vs N1, p=0.037).

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that in the resected esophageal cancer an increased mRNA expression of MMP-7, MMP-10 and TIMP-1 correlated with clinicopathologic features. We suggest that these genes may play a role during progression of the disease.

miR-346 and miR-582-3p-regulated EG-VEGF expression and trophoblast invasion via matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9

Endocrine gland-derived vascular endothelial growth factor (EG-VEGF) is an important regulator for embryo implantation and placental development, and is clinically associated with several obstetric disorders related to insufficient or inappropriate trophoblast invasion, such as recurrent abortion, preeclampsia, and intrauterine fetal growth restriction. This study was performed to identify the microRNAs targeting EG-VEGF, and evaluate the regulatory effect on trophoblast biology. miR-346 and miR-582-3p were initially identified via bioinformatic tools, and their specific binding sites on the EG-VEGF 3'UTR were further confirmed using dual luciferase and a co-transfection assays. miR-346 and miR-582-3p were demonstrated not only to suppress EG-VEGF expression, but also inhibit trophoblast invasion and migration in the JAR and HTR-8/SVneo cell lines. We further evaluated the effect of microRNAs in HTR-8/SVneo cells coexpressing EG-VEGF and miR-346 or miR-582-3p on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP 2 and MMP 9) and the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMP 1 and TIMP 2) using RT-PCR, western blotting and gelatin zymography. TIMP 1 and TIMP 2 were not affected by the two microRNAs, whereas the expressions and activities of MMP 2 and MMP 9 were significantly downregulated, which in turn inhibited the invasion ability of trophoblasts. In conclusion, miR-346 and miR-582-3p regulate EG-VEGF-induced trophoblast invasion through repressing MMP 2 and MMP 9, and may become novel diagnostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets for EG-VEGF-related obstetric disorders. © 2016 BioFactors, 43(2):210-219, 2017.

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 and -2 and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2 in invasive pituitary adenomas: A systematic review and meta-analysis of case-control trials

The extracellular matrix is important for tumor invasion and metastasis. Normal function of the extracellular matrix depends on the balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). The objective of this meta-analysis was to assess the relationship between expression of MMP-9, MMP-2, and TIMP-2 and invasion of pituitary adenomas.We searched Pubmed, Embase, and the Chinese Biomedical Database up to October 2015. RevMan 5.1 software (Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark) was used for statistical analysis. We calculated the standardized mean difference (SMD) for data expressed as mean ± standard deviation because of the difference in the detection method.Twenty-four studies (1320 patients) were included. MMP-9 expression was higher in the patients with invasive pituitary adenomas (IPAs) than patients with noninvasive pituitary adenomas (NIPAs) with detection methods of IHC [odds ratio (OR) = 5.48, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.61-11.50, P < 0.00001), and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (SMD = 2.28, 95% CI = 0.91-3.64, P = 0.001). MMP-2 expression was also increased in patients with IPAs at the protein level (OR = 3.58, 95% CI = 1.63-7.87, P = 0.001), and RNA level (SMD = 3.91, 95% CI = 1.52-6.29, P = 0.001). Meta-analysis showed that there was no difference in TIMP-2 expression between invasive and NIPAs at the protein level (OR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.06-2.26, P = 0.29). MMP-9 expression in prolactinomas and nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas was also no difference (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.48-2.20, P = 0.95).The results indicated that MMP-9 and -2 may be correlated with invasiveness of pituitary adenomas, although their relationship with functional status of pituitary adenomas is still not clear. TIMP-2 expression in IPAs needs to be investigated further.

Potentially positive ageing-related variations of medial smooth muscle cells in the saphenous veins used as aortocoronary bypass grafts

INTRODUCTION

Currently, elderly people constitute a large proportion of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Activated smooth muscle cells in the tunica media of saphenous vein (SV) grafts are thought to play a key role in the formation of neointima and development of occluding atherosclerotic plaques. The aim of this study was to identify ageing-related variations in the expression of the smooth muscle cells pro-teins that may impact on patency rate of the grafts and the CABG outcomes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study involved 216 consecutive patients with the mean of 62.7 ± 8.4 years who underwent isolated CABG with at least one SV aortocoronary bypass graft. Expression of a-smooth muscle actin (a-SM actin), smooth muscle-myosin heavy chain (SM-MHC), calponin (CALP), cytokeratin 8 (CK-8), metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-2 and -3 (TIMP-2, TIMP-3) in the SV wall was assessed by immunohistochemistry and correlated with the age of patients.

RESULTS

Calponin and a-SM actin were expressed in all studied SV transplants. SM-MHC immunoreactivity was observed in SV segments in 68.5% of patients, whereas MMP-2a and TIMPs expression was found in 75% of cases. In more than 50% of analyzed SV transplants, no expression of cytokeratin-8 was found. Moderate correlations between preexisting expressions of either cytoskeletal or hemostatic proteins in the tunica media of the SV grafts and the age of CABG patients were demonstrated. They were positive for SM-MHC (r = 0.494), CALP (r = 0.548), TIMP-2 (r = 0.413) and TIMP-3 (r = 0.406) whereas negative for CK-8 (r = -0.528) and MMP-2 (r = -0.417).

CONCLUSIONS

Age-dependent decreases in the expression of MMP-2 and CK-8 accompanied by increases in expression of SM-MHC, TIMP-2 and TIMP-3 may promote SV graft patency and, thus, suggest a rationale for common use of SV grafts in the elderly.

Expression of MMP-9/TIMP-2 in nasal polyps and its functional implications

Nasal polyps (NP) involve tissue repair and structural remodel, both of which require the extracellular matrix. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) are known regulators for tissue reconstruction. This study therefore aimed to analyze the expressional profile of MMP-9 and TIMP-2 in NP patients, with further investigation of their roles in pathogenesis. A total of 60 NP tissue samples (including 15 type I, 21 type II and 24 type III) were collected from surgeries in our hospital, in addition to 6 normal ethmoid sinus mucosa samples. The mRNA and protein expression levels of MMP-9/TIMP-2 were quantified by real-time PCR and Western blotting, respectively. Serum levels were also checked by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Both mRNA and protein levels of MMP-9 in NP tissues or serum were significantly elevated compared to those in control ones (P<0.05) while the TIMP-2 expression was suppressed (P<0.05). In patients with more advanced stage, MMP-9 expression was further elevated, with lowered TIMP-2 levels (P<0.05 in both cases). Pathogenesis and progression of NP is closely related with elevated MMP-9 and suppressed TIMP-2 expression, suggesting the role of those factors as indexes for evaluating NP stage. Our results also provide evidences for further studies of pathogenesis and drug targets of NP.

Low-dose UVB irradiation prevents MMP2-induced skin hyperplasia by inhibiting inflammation and ROS

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of malignancy in the world. UV radiation is known as the primary environmental carcinogen responsible for skin cancer development. However, UV radiation is a ubiquitous substance existing in the environment and the physiological effect of UV radiation is consistently ignored. Therefore, in the present study, the physiological effect of UV radiation on inhibition of skin cancer was investigated. Normal mouse skin was processing by no pre-radiation or pre-radiation of low-dose UV before a medium or high dose of UV radiation. We found that the low-dose pre-radiated mouse skin tissue exhibited low skin inflammation, skin ROS production and consequently low skin epithelial hyperplasia after the medium-dose UV radiation compared with the no pre-radiated mouse. However, this inhibition was not indicated in the high-dose UV radiation group after low-dose pre-radiation. Furthermore, western blot analysis and gelatin zymography showed low expression and activation of MMP2 in the skin tissues processed following medium-dose radiation, but not in tissues treated with high-dose radiation after a low-dose pre-radiation. Further investigation of MMP2 inhibitors of TIMP2/TIMP4 showed an upregulated TIMP2 expression, but not TIMP4. Collectively, these data indicate that low-dose pre-radiation attenuates the skin inflammation and ROS production induced by medium-dose UV radiation and also elevates TIMP2 to withstand MMP2, therefore suppressing skin hyperplasia. The present study indicates a novel concept or prophylactic function of moderate UV radiation as a preventative strategy.

α-Solanine inhibits invasion of human prostate cancer cell by suppressing epithelial-mesenchymal transition and MMPs expression

α-Solanine, a naturally occurring steroidal glycoalkaloid found in nightshade (Solanum nigrum Linn.), was found to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis of tumor cells. However, the mechanism involved in suppression of cancer cell metastasis by α-solanine remains unclear. This study investigates the suppression mechanism of α-solanine on motility of the human prostate cancer cell PC-3. Results show that α-solanine reduces the viability of PC-3 cells. When treated with non-toxic doses of α-solanine, cell invasion is markedly suppressed by α-solanine. α-Solanine also significantly elevates epithelial marker E-cadherin expression, while it concomitantly decreases mesenchymal marker vimentin expression, suggesting it suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). α-Solanine reduces the mRNA level of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), MMP-9 and extracellular inducer of matrix metalloproteinase (EMMPRIN), but increases the expression of reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with kazal motifs (RECK), and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and TIMP-2. Immunoblotting assays indicate α-solanine is effective in suppressing the phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositide-3 kinase (PI3K), Akt and ERK. Moreover, α-solanine downregulates oncogenic microRNA-21 (miR-21) and upregulates tumor suppressor miR-138 expression. Taken together, the results suggest that inhibition of PC-3 cell invasion by α-solanine may be, at least in part, through blocking EMT and MMPs expression. α-Solanine also reduces ERK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways and regulates expression of miR-21 and miR-138. These findings suggest an attractive therapeutic potential of α-solanine for suppressing invasion of prostate cancer cell.

[Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)--MMP-1,-2,-9 and its endogenous activity regulators in transformed by E7 oncogene HPV16 and HPV18 cervical carcinoma cell lines]

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) play a key role in development of tumor invasion and metestasis. The purpose of the work is the elucidation of peculiarities of expression of MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9 and their activity regulators: plasminogen activator uPA and tissue inhibitors of MMPs - TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 in human cell lines of squoamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Comparative study of MMPs' expression was carried out on cell lines SCC which differed in HPV types (HPV-16 and HPV-18): SiHa, Caski - HPV16, Hela, C4-1 - HPV18). As a control, the C33A line was used where HPV copies were absent. The human papilloma viruses (HPV) of high risk--HPV-16, HPV-18, as etiological factors of initiation of cervical cancer, are most widespread and most aggressive among oncogenic HPVs. Study of MMP expression involved estimation of expression of mRNA using the RT-PCR method and determination of collagenolytic activity by hydrolysis of fluorogenic type 1 collagen and also by the zymography method. It was shown that: 1. In both types of cell lines, the MMP-1 expression was essentially increased (2 to 8 times), and in HPV18 lines it was most expressed. The exception was made by the SiHa line in which the decrease of expression of this enzyme was observed. MMP-2 expression was at the control level in both types of cell lines. 2. Expression of inhibitors generally was at the control level. The only exception was the C4-1 line where the expression of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 was increased in 1,7 and 2,6 times accordingly. Expression of uPA was increased 2 to 4, 5 times in all cell lines except Siha where was lowered to 20%. 3. Collagenolytic activity in the Caski and Hela cell line was 2-3 times higher that it was in control, while the activity in the SiHa cell line was compatible with that in the control. Research of gelatinolytic activity also as well as the data on an expression MPHK has revealed only presence MMFP-2, but not MMP-9 in all cervical carcinoma cell lines. The data obtained provide evidence for a significant disturbance in transformed cells of enzyme/inhibitor/activator ratio--which occurs, for the most part, at the cost of elevated expression of MMP-1 and its activator whereas the expression of MMP-2 and inhibitors remains virtually unchanged, which leads to the increase of the destructive potential of transformed cells.

MiR-19a is correlated with prognosis and apoptosis of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma by regulating TIMP-2 expression

MiRNAs are small, noncoding RNA molecules that act as posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression and function as important regulators in cancer-related processes. The miR-19a is overexpressed in various cancers and has been causally related to cellular proliferation and growth. To determine whether miR-19a plays a role in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), we used quantitative real time PCR to detect miR-19a expression in LSCC tissues. We found that miR-19a is overexpressed in LSCC and correlated with neck nodal metastasis, poor differentiation and advanced stage. Statistical analysis suggests that higher level of miR-19a was associated with reduced overall survival. In vitro functional study showed that inhibition of miR-19a by antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) led to apoptosis and reduction of cell proliferation in LSCC cells. Furthermore, growth of LSCC xenograft tumors was significantly suppressed by repeated injection of ASO-miR-19a lentivirus. The TUNEL stain and transmission electron microscopy also detected increased apoptotic cells in ASO-miR-19a treated LSCC xenografts. In addition, both realtime PCR and western blot showed ASO-miR-19a can upregulate TIMP-2 expression and this suggests miR-19a is related with TIMP-2 pathway in LSCC cells. Taken together, these data suggest that miR-19a plays an oncogenic role in the progression of LSCC, and may serve as a biomarker or therapeutic target for patients with LSCC.

High variability in MMP2/TIMP2 and MMP9/TIMP1 expression in secondary liver tumors

The assessment of MMPs/TIMPs expression in various primary tumors has potential prognostic values. Considering the paucity of studies in secondary liver tumors, our aim was to study the expression of MMP2, MMP9, TIMP1, and TIMP2 in secondary hepatic cancer, focusing on their variability in the malignant cells. The study group included 25 cases of liver metastases of colorectal cancer, diagnosed and surgically treated at "Sf. Spiridon" University Hospital of Iassy, Romania. Immunohistochemistry for MMP2, MMP9, TIMP1, and TIMP2 has been performed, followed by the semi-quantitative assessment of the markers using a scoring system based on the positive tumoral cells percentage and the staining intensity. The expression of investigated markers revealed an increased staining variability. The scores showed that MMP2/TIMP2 and MMP9/TIMP1 immunoreactivity was extremely heterogeneous within the analyzed group, with a dominant weak expression for MMP2 and MMP9, in contrast to strong TIMP2 and TIMP1 expression. Ten different patterns of expression of the investigated markers have been identified. No major differences between the expression of MMP2 (14 positive cases) and MMP9 (16 positive cases) could be detected. Our results sustain the inverse correlation between MMP and the correspondent TIMP expression, supporting the hypothesis that MMPs/TIMPs balance has mainly an inhibitory effect on invasiveness. Our study demonstrated that tumoral cells are adapted to MMPs:TIMPs production in the liver microenvironment. The lack of significant differences between MMP2 and MMP9 expression shows that the activity of both MMPs is independent, without reciprocal influences.

Molecular response of the patellar tendon to fatigue loading explained in the context of the initial induced damage and number of fatigue loading cycles

Accumulation of sub-rupture fatigue damage has been implicated in the development of tendinopathy. We previously developed an in vivo model of damage accumulation using the rat patellar tendon. Our model allows us to control the input loading parameters to induce fatigue damage in the tendon. Despite this precise control, the resulting induced damage could vary among animals because of differences in size or strength among their patellar tendons. In this study, we used number of applied cycles and initial (day-0) parameters that are indicative of induced damage to assess the molecular response 7 days after fatigue loading. We hypothesized that day-0 hysteresis, elongation, and stiffness of the loading and unloading load-displacement curves would be predictive of the 7-day molecular response. Results showed correlations between the 7-day molecular response and both day-0 elongation and unloading stiffness. Additionally, loading resulted in upregulation of several extracellular matrix genes that suggest adaptation; however, several of these genes (Col-I, -XII, MMP 2, and TIMP 3) shut down after a high level of damage was induced. We showed that evaluating the 7-day molecular profile in light of day-0 elongation provides important insight that is lost from comparing number of fatigue loading cycles only. Our data showed that loading generally results in an adaptive response. However, the tendon's ability to effectively respond deteriorates as greater damage is induced.

Investigating metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 mechanosensitivity to feedback loops involved in the regulation of in vitro angiogenesis by endogenous mechanical stresses

Angiogenesis is a complex morphogenetic process regulated by growth factors, but also by the force balance between endothelial cells (EC) traction stresses and extracellular matrix (ECM) viscoelastic resistance. Studies conducted with in vitro angiogenesis assays demonstrated that decreasing ECM stiffness triggers an angiogenic switch that promotes organization of EC into tubular cords or pseudo-capillaries. Thus, mechano-sensitivity of EC with regard to proteases secretion, and notably matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), should likely play a pivotal role in this switching mechanism. While most studies analysing strain regulation of MMPs used cell cultured on stretched membranes, this work focuses on MMP expression during self-assembly of EC into capillary-like structures within fibrin gels, i.e. on conditions that mimics more closely the in vivo cellular mechanical microenvironment. The activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9, two MMPs that have a pivotal role in capillaries formation, has been monitored in pace with the progressive elongation of EAhy926 cells that takes place during the emergence of cellular cords. We found an increase of the zymogen proMMP-2 that correlates with the initial stages of EC cords formation. However, MMP-2 was not detected. ProMMP-9 secretion decreased, with levels of MMP-9 kept at a rather low value. In order to analyse more precisely the observed differences of EAhy926 response on fibrin and plastic substrates, we proposed a theoretical model of the mechano-regulation of proMMP-2 activation in the presence of type 2 tissue inhibitor of MMPs (TIMP-2). Using association/dissociation rates experimentally reported for this enzymatic network, the model adequately describes the synergism of proMMP-2 and TIMP-2 strain activation during pseudo-capillary morphogenesis. All together, these results provide a first step toward a systems biology approach of angiogenesis mechano-regulation by cell-generated extracellular stresses and strains.

Immunohistochemical expression of MMP-9, TIMP-2, E-cadherin and vimentin in ameloblastomas and their implication in the local aggressive behavior of these tumors

Among the benign epithelial odontogenic tumors, the ameloblastoma occupies a special place because of their local aggressive behavior with devastating jaw destructions, which lead to a high recurrence rate, even following the radical surgery. In an attempt to clarify the mechanisms underlying this behavior we immunohistochemically investigated the reactivity of different histological variant of ameloblastoma to MMP-9, TIMP-2, E-cadherin and vimentin. A semiquantitative assessment of their reactivity in the epithelial neoplastic compartment was done and statistical correlation was attempt with histological variant and between them. The MMP-9 and TIMP-2 reactivity was observed with variable intensity both in the neoplastic epithelium and in the stroma that surround the ameloblastic proliferations. Only for MMP-9, the statistical tests proved the existence of significant differences within major ameloblastic histological variants, with the highest reactivity acanthomatous type. The stroma independent of the histological variant had the highest reactivity at the invasive front adjacent to the tumoral islands. Immunoreactivity for E-cadherin was more obvious in the follicular type at the level of stellate-reticulum like cells, and decreased in the peripheral columnar cells, as they are closer to the invasion front. Vimentin reactivity was present in the neoplastic epithelium only in the peripheral columnar cells at the invasion front but at this site, the stroma had the highest expression. Statistical analysis proved the existence of inverse relationship between MMP-9 and E-cadherin scores, while vimentin score had an inverse relationship both with TIMP-2 and E-cadherin scores. Our results proved the implication of these four markers in the growth of ameloblastomas and as a consequence their utility in monitoring of local aggressiveness of these tumors.

Primary human mDC1, mDC2, and pDC dendritic cells are differentially infected and activated by respiratory syncytial virus

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes recurrent infections throughout life. Vaccine development may depend upon understanding the molecular basis for induction of ineffective immunity. Because dendritic cells (DCs) are critically involved in early responses to infection, their interaction with RSV may determine the immunological outcome of RSV infection. Therefore, we investigated the ability of RSV to infect and activate primary mDCs and pDCs using recombinant RSV expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP). At a multiplicity of infection of 5, initial studies demonstrated ∼6.8% of mDC1 and ∼0.9% pDCs were infected. We extended these studies to include CD1c⁻CD141⁺ mDC2, finding mDC2 infected at similar frequencies as mDC1. Both infected and uninfected cells upregulated phenotypic markers of maturation. Divalent cations were required for infection and maturation, but maturation did not require viral replication. There is evidence that attachment and entry/replication processes exert distinct effects on DC activation. Cell-specific patterns of RSV-induced maturation and cytokine production were detected in mDC1, mDC2, and pDC. We also demonstrate for the first time that RSV induces significant TIMP-2 production in all DC subsets. Defining the influence of RSV on the function of selected DC subsets may improve the likelihood of achieving protective vaccine-induced immunity.

[Molecular biological features of ectopic and eutopic endometrium in genital endometriosis]

The molecular biological features of the eutopic and ectopic endometrium were studied in 46 patients with adenomyosis, 44 with endometrioid cysts in the ovaries, and 34 with disseminated mixed forms of genital endometriosis. Reproductive-aged patients with the eutopic endometrium in a proliferation phase with hyperplastic or inflammatory changes were selected. Ten samples of the endometrium in a phase proliferation, which had been obtained at medicolegal autopsy of women without reproductive disorders, were studied as a control group. Both the glandular and stromal components of the ectopic and eutopic endometrium in different forms of endometriosis were shown to differ from the intact endometrium in their molecular biological features (the expression of Ki-67, Bcl-2, Bax, vascular endothelial growth factor, transforming growth factor-beta1, matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 10, matrix metalloproteinase-2 inhibitor, the enzyme cytochrome P450 aromatase.

[Expression of matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 and their tissue inhibitors 1 and 2 in papillary thyroid cancer: an association with the clinical, morphological and ultrastructural characteristics of a tumor]

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) was ascertained to be characterized by a significant expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and 9) and a TIMP-2 inhibitor and decreased TIMP-1 accumulation in the cytoplasm of tumor cells; at the same time a combination of high cytoplasmic MMP-9 expression with no TIMP-1, as well as triple positive co-expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, and TIMP-2 are poor immunohistochemical indicators. The results of the performed study suggest that the detection of the types of expression of MMP-9+/TIMP-1 and MMP-2+/MMP-9+/TIMP-2+ is associated with the possible progression of a tumor process and concurrent with poor clinical and morphological signs, such as the large size of the tumor, the presence of intravascular invasion and regional metastases, organ capsular invasion, and low ultrastructural tumor cell differentiation. Thus, changes in the tumor expression of the extracellular matrix enzymes MMR-2 and MMP-9 and their inhibitors TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 along with the major clinical, morphological, and ultrastructural signs of the disease are important additional indicators for analyzing the malignant potential of PTC.

Molecular characterization of invasive subpopulations from an esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell line

BACKGROUND

Once diagnosed, esophageal cancer has a very low overall 5-year survival rate. This study investigates the mechanisms behind the invasiveness and severity of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Transwell invasion chamber was used to subdivide one Taiwanese ESCC cell line, CE81T/VGH, into sublines (CE81T-0, CE81T-1, CE81T-2, CE81T-3, and CE81T-4) in four rounds of assays; the most invasive were identified, and various factors related to their invasiveness measured.

RESULTS

CE81T-1, CE81T-2, CE81T-3 and CE81T-4 sublines were significantly more invasive than the parental cells (CE81T/VGH) and CE81T-0 subline. CE81T-1 and CE81T-4, the sublines we chose to study further, had significantly greater colony-forming ability (3.5- to 2.7-fold) and wound migrating activity (1.95- to 2.6-fold) than the parental cells in vitro (p<0.01). They also displayed greater tumorigenesis in immunodeficient BALB/c Foxlnn mice than the parental cells. We found an inverse correlation between expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 and invasive ability, and a significant positive correlation between expressions of matrix metalloproteinase-1, vimentin, and p-Src (pY416) in these cell lines and their invasiveness (all p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The subline model may be used to study the molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying the invasion and metastasis of ESCC.

MMP inhibition blocks fibroblast-dependent skin cancer invasion, reduces vascularization and alters VEGF-A and PDGF-BB expression

Tumor invasion requires intense interactions with stromal cells and a profound extracellular matrix remodelling by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Here, we assessed the specific contribution of fibroblasts to tumor invasion, MMPs, tissue inhibitors of MMPs and angiogenesis-related cytokine expression in organotypic cultures of highly malignant HaCaT-ras A-5RT3 cells, with and without MMP inhibition. Collagen degradation, the hallmark of tumor invasion, was dependent on fibroblasts and active MMP-2. Additionally, MMP blockade down-regulated VEGF-A and up-regulated PDGF-BB. These results were paralleled in xenotransplants in vivo, demonstrating strong inhibitory effects of MMP blockade on tumor invasion and vascularization, as shown by the almost complete absence of VEGF-A and MMP-14 and by the decrease in relative blood volume. MMP blockade also increased the fraction of mature vessels, as demonstrated by an increased mean tumor vessel diameter and a higher ratio of Ng2-positive vessels. Thus, this study highlights the importance of targeting the tumor stroma to defeat cancer.

Environmental endocrine disruptors promote invasion and metastasis of SK-N-SH human neuroblastoma cells

Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common pediatric extracranial cancer. Metastasis is the main cause of mortality in NB patients. Currently, little is known about the risk factors and their mechanisms that cause metastasis. Environmental endocrine disruptors (EED) are recently identified risk factors associated with various human diseases including malignant tumors. Our previous studies have implicated the role of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and bisphenol A (BPA), two of the most common EED, in neuroblastoma cell proliferation. Here, we further investigated the effects of DEHP, BPA as well as 17beta-estradiol (E2) on the invasion and metastasis of human neuroblastoma SK-N-SH cells in vitro. SK-N-SH cells expressed estrogen receptor (ER)-beta, matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2), MMP-9 and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) at readily detectable levels. 50 microM DEHP, 0.1 microM BPA and 10 microM E2 exposure all resulted in enhanced motility and invasiveness of SK-N-SH cells (P<0.001), elevated expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9, and decreased expression of TIMP-2 (P<0.01). Furthermore, phosphorylation of Akt (Ser473) was also induced following the exposure (P<0.01). Importantly, both ER antagonist ICI182,780 and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) specific inhibitor LY294002 significantly inhibited the DEHP, BPA, or E2-induced cell migration and invasion, as well as the disregulation of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-2 expression. ICI182,780 may have worked through abolishing Akt (Ser473) phosphorylation. In conclusion, DEHP, BPA, and E2 potently promote invasion and metastasis of neuroblastoma cells through overexpression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 as well as downregulation of TIMP-2. ER-dependent pathway and PI3K/Akt pathway are involved, which may become potential therapeutic targets for neuroblastoma treatment.

Lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic remodeling induced by filarial parasites: implications for pathogenesis

Even in the absence of an adaptive immune system in murine models, lymphatic dilatation and dysfunction occur in filarial infections, although severe irreversible lymphedema and elephantiasis appears to require an intact adaptive immune response in human infections. To address how filarial parasites and their antigens influence the lymphatics directly, human lymphatic endothelial cells were exposed to filarial antigens, live parasites, or infected patient serum. Live filarial parasites or filarial antigens induced both significant LEC proliferation and differentiation into tube-like structures in vitro. Moreover, serum from patently infected (microfilaria positive) patients and those with longstanding chronic lymphatic obstruction induced significantly increased LEC proliferation compared to sera from uninfected individuals. Differentiation of LEC into tube-like networks was found to be associated with significantly increased levels of matrix metalloproteases and inhibition of their TIMP inhibitors (Tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteases). Comparison of global gene expression induced by live parasites in LEC to parasite-unexposed LEC demonstrated that filarial parasites altered the expression of those genes involved in cellular organization and development as well as those associated with junction adherence pathways that in turn decreased trans-endothelial transport as assessed by FITC-Dextran. The data suggest that filarial parasites directly induce lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic differentiation and provide insight into the mechanisms underlying the pathology seen in lymphatic filariasis.

The nematode parasites Brugia malayi and Wuchereria bancrofti are the major organisms responsible for lymphatic filariasis. Lymphatic filariasis is characterized by the dysfunction of the lymphatics that can lead to severe (and often) irreversible lymphedema and elephantiasis. Current advances in distinguishing blood vascular from lymphatic endothelial cells have allowed the direct study of the interaction between live filarial parasites and their lymphatic niche. In the quest towards understanding parasite-lymphatic endothelium interactions, we observed that the filarial antigens have a specific but differential stimulatory capacity towards the lymphatics and cause them to differentiate into tube-like vascular networks in vitro that resemble the formation of collateral lymphatics in vivo. This was a lymphatic-specific phenomenon, as the filarial parasites or antigen did not exhibit similar effects on the human umbilical vein endothelial cells. The differentiation of the lymphatic endothelial monolayers into vascular networks was not dependent on typical markers of lymphangiogenesis but rather involves the matrix metalloproteases and their inhibitors that suggest lymphatic matrix remodeling rather than rendering of the lymphatics hyper-permeable as has been postulated previously.

Metalloproteinases MMP-9, MMP-2 and their tissue inhibitors TIMP-1, TIMP-2 in peripheral transbronchial lung biopsies of patients with sarcoidosis

INTRODUCTION

The imbalance between metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors TIMPs) may be involved in the pathogenesis of lung sarcoidosis, a granulomatous inflammatory disease which may lead to lung fibrosis.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to verify whether the expression of MMP-9, MMP-2, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 in peripheral lung biopsies of patients with sarcoidosis correlate with lung function tests, radiological pattern, and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells. We compared the expression of MMPs and TIMPs between patients with sarcoid-positive vs. - negative biopsy and fibrosing vs. non-fibrosing high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT)pattern.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We examined patients with histologically proven stage II and III sarcoidosis (n = 17). Immunohistochemistry with antibodies against the studied molecules was performed in the lung and bronchial tissue specimens obtained from transbronchial lung biopsies. The radiological pattern was evaluated based on HRCT. The total cell number and percentage of cells were calculated in the BAL samples.

RESULTS

MMPs and TIMPs were present in the cells of sarcoid granuloma, and were more prevalent in the parenchyma than in the bronchi. We found no correlation between MMP-9, MMP-2, TIMP-1, TIMP-2 and HRCT pattern or BAL cells. There were inverse associations between MMP-9 and FEV1 (% predicted), and also between MMP-2 and maximal expiratory flow 25-75% (L and % predicted) in patients with sarcoidosis diagnosed by transbronchial lung biopsy. There were no differences in the measured parameters between patients with and without fibrotic changes and between those with negative vs. positive lung biopsy results.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides an indirect evidence for a potential involvement of MMPs/TIMPs in the sarcoid inflammation of the distal airways.

Role of TIMP-2 in Fascia Transversalis on Development of Inguinal Hernias

The exact reason for the development of inguinal hernia has not been completely determined. However, it is known that the fascia transversalis (FT) is one of the structures preventing development of hernias. In the etiology of the inguinal hernia, disorders in collagen metabolism have been proposed, and the role of metalloproteinases in remodeling the collagen has recently been of great importance. We could not encounter any study where the role of metalloproteinase inhibitors was evaluated in inguinal hernia. We obtained samples of FT from patients with direct and indirect hernia and used an immunohistochemical method to determine tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) expression. In the study group, samples of FT were taken during the operation from 45 patients, of which 35 were indirect and 10 were direct inguinal hernias. In the control group, samples of FT from various abdominal incisions were also taken from 45 patients with no hernia and operated upon for another pathology. TIMP-2 scores of a direct inguinal hernia were significantly less than those of the control group. However, no difference has been found between the TIMP-2 scores of an indirect inguinal hernia and those of the control group. Decreased TIMP-2 scores in patients with a direct inguinal hernia, compared with both the indirect inguinal hernia group and the control group, explain the reason for the increase in matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) that has been proposed in some studies. Therefore, it can be expressed that a decreased activity of TIMP-2 plays a role in inguinal hernia development.

[Expression of gelatinases A and B and their endogenous regulators in immortal and transformed fibroblasts]

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) play a critical role in tumor invasion and metastasis. The aim of this study was to elucidate peculiarity of expression of gelatinases A and B (MMP-2 and MMP-9), membrane type MMP (MT1-MMP) and tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP-2) in immortal (IF) and transformed fibroblasts (TF).The study was carried out using embryo rat fibroblasts, sequentially immortalized with the polyomavirus LT gene and transformed with the E7 gene of human papilloma virus (HPV-16). Papilloma virus type 16 and 18 are etiological factors of cervical cancer. The primary fibroblast (PF) culture of Fisher rats was used as control. Analysis of TF and IF involved: determination of MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity by hydrolysis of specific substrate--radioactive collagen type IV; obtaining of MMP spectra by zimographic assay and estimation of the mRNA expression (by RT-PCR) of MMP-2, MMP-9, MT1- MMP and TIMP-2. It was found: 1) collagenolytic activity of MMP was increased only in TF and was dependent on the degree of cell tumorogenity; 2) the study of MMP spectra was shown that MMP-9 was found in TF only but MMP-2 was found in all investigated clones; 3) The mRNA expression of MMP-9, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 was increased in all TF while the MMP-2 expression was increased in TF only after TF cell selection on rats; 4) The collagenolytic activity as well as the mRNA expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 themselves and of MMP-2 endogenous regulators (MT1-MMP and TIMP-2) did not change in immortalized fibroblasts compared to PF. The data obtained indicate changes in the enzyme/inhibitor/activator ratio and also suggest of a significant increase in the TF destructive potential. MMP-9 is supposed to be a marker of fibroblasts transformed by E7 HPV-16 gene in cell culture.

Protein phosphatase 1A (PPM1A) is involved in human cytotrophoblast cell invasion and migration

Trophoblast invasion is crucial for embryo implantation and placentation. Excessive trophoblast invasion leads to hydatidiform moles and choriocarcinoma. PPM1A is a phosphatase which dephosphorylates and inactivates a broad range of substrates, including TGF-beta, MAP kinases, p38 and JNK kinase cascades, and is involved in tumor suppression. The objective of this study was to investigate the expression of PPM1A in normal and malignant human placenta and its role in trophoblast invasion, which shares many similarities with invasion of tumor cells. By Western blotting and immunocytochemistry, significantly higher expression of PPM1A in human placental villi at term was found as compared with that during the first trimester. Furthermore, the expression level of PPM1A protein in hydatidiform moles was lower compared with that during normal pregnancy. We further investigated the function of PPM1A in extravillous trophoblast cell line HTR8/SVneo. Transwell migration and Matrigel invasion assays demonstrated that PPM1A siRNA significantly promoted the motility and invasiveness of the cells. Gelatin zymography showed that knockdown of PPM1A with siRNA elevated the expression of pro-matrix metalloproteinase pro-(MMP)-9, but down-regulated tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-2. The present data indicate that PPM1A plays a critical role in the regulation of normal placentation by inhibiting trophoblast migration and invasion.

[Matrix metalloproteinase 2 and 9 as the factor of head and neck tumor metastasis]

The levels of metalloproteinases (MMP-2,-9), their tissue inhibitors (TIMP-1,-2) and extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN) were studied in tumor tissue and blood serum from patients with head and neck squamous sell carcinoma. Immunohistochemical investigation showed much higher expression of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in tumor tissue than MMP-2 and TIMP-2. Different expression of the studied parameters (except TIMP-1) in cancer cells and stroma was observed. Enhanced level of MMP-2,-9 and TIMP-2 expression was revealed mainly in fibrocytes, leukocytes and stromal extracellular matrix. Expression of EMMPRIN in tumor cells was higher than in stromal cells. It is possible that carcinoma cells express EMMPRIN to increase MMP production by surrounding cells. Significant decrease of inhibitor expression was observed in cells of carcinomas with N1 grade of metastasis than in tumors without metastasis. Also the decrease in TIMP-1 level was determined in blood serum of patients with metastasis to regional lymph nodes compared with serum of patients without metastasis. Thus, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 play an important role in the development of head and neck squamous sell carcinoma and TIMP-1 level in blood serum and cancer tissues is linked to first grade of regional lymph node metastasis.

Expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP-2) in medullary thyroid carcinoma: prognostic implications

BACKGROUND

Metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP-2) participate in the degeneration of the extracellular matrix and are associated with carcinogenesis. MMP-2 is one of the main metalloproteinases active in neoplasia and is a marker of the malignant phenotype. Since the biological behavior of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) varies widely, the present study was undertaken to determine if there is a correlation between the clinical evolution of MTC and the immunohistochemically detected expression of these enzymes in thyroid surgical specimens containing MTC. If so, their expression would be a novel indicator of the prognosis of MTC.

METHODS

Thirty-seven patients with MTC who had undergone thyroid surgery were followed for an average of 73 months. Immunohistochemical staining for metalloproteinase-related enzymes was performed in surgical paraffin blocks. The clinical status of the patients after surgery and at the end of the study period was characterized to determine correlations between these and the immunohistochemical markers. A value of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

At the end of the study period, 15 patients (40.5%) were alive and without evidence of MTC, 17 (45.9%) had persistent MTC, and 5 (13.5%) had a relapse of their neoplasia. Four patients (10.8%) died during the course of the study. There was a significant correlation (p = 0.0005) between the immunohistochemical staining for MMP-2 and the clinical condition of the patients at the end of the study period, and a correlation between the state of apparent cure compared to persistence of MTC after thyroid surgery (p = 0.0207). No significant correlations were observed between either TIMP-2 expression or immune marking of metastatic lymph nodes and the clinical variables studied.

CONCLUSION

Immunohistochemical expression of MMP-2 in thyroid surgical specimens from patients with MTC is a novel indicator of the prognosis of this cancer.

Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases II (TIMP-2) is an osteoanabolic factor in vitro and in vivo

OBJECTIVE

Critical size defects (CSDs) of bone are defined as defects that do not heal spontaneously to new bone during the lifetime of an adult individual. In contrast, immature animals are capable to heal defects of identical size. It was our hypothesis that age-related paracrine effects are relevant for this difference in regeneration.

METHODS

The pooled supernatant of primary rat calvarial osteoblast-like cell cultures (POBC) derived from prenatal or postnatal donors was concentrated and applied into CSDs of adult recipient organisms (n = 10). In addition, the supernatant of POBC derived from prenatal donors was pooled and purified by reverse-phase chromatography. Each pre-purified fraction was tested in a proliferation indicating bioassay. Peptide fractions containing proliferative activities were re-chromatographed and re-tested in a bioassay. Finally, a proliferative activity was purified, identified by sequence analysis and applied into CSDs of adult recipients.

RESULTS

The application of POBC derived from prenatal donors resulted in osseous regeneration of a CSD in adult recipients, while the supernatant of postnatal donors had much smaller effects. The morphologic features resembled the spontaneous osseous healing of calvarial defects of the same size in immature organisms. The polypeptide "tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases type II"(TIMP-2) was isolated from the supernatant of cultures of POBC derived from prenatal donors by measuring the induction of their proliferation. Additionally, the application of human TIMP-2 injected into calvarial CSDs of adult organisms resulted in osseous healing.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that one component responsible for the healing effect of CSDs of POBC supernatants derived from prenatal donors is TIMP-2.

The expression of matrix metalloproteinases-2 and -9 and their tissue inhibitor 2 in pancreatic ductal and ampullary carcinoma and their relation to angiogenesis and clinicopathological parameters

AIM

To investigate the expression of metalloproteinase (MMP) -2, MMP-9 and tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP) -2 in pancreatic ductal and ampullary carcinoma and to test the findings for correlation with angiogenesis and several clinicopathological parameters.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Paraffin sections from 32 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas and 17 ampullary carcinomas were assessed for the expression of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-2 by immunohistochemistry. Stromal and epithelial staining was evaluated separately. Moreover, sections stained immunohistochemically with anti-CD34 antibody were evaluated by image analysis for the quantification of microvessel density (MVD).

RESULTS

In pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, lower levels of glandular TIMP-2 were found in poorly differentiated tumors, while high glandular TIMP-2 expression was significantly associated with better survival. The age of the patients and the degree of differentiation of the tumor were identified as independent prognostic parameters. No relation was found between the expression of MMPs, TIMP or angiogenesis and the parameters under consideration. In ampullary adenocarcinoma, strong expression of glandular MMP-2 was associated with higher MVD values. Moreover, lymph vessel invasion was associated with higher stromal TIMP-2.

CONCLUSION

In pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, TIMP-2 may have a more crucial role in prognosis than MMP-2, MMP-9 or angiogenesis. In ampullary adenocarcinoma, MMP-2 expression correlated with MVD, supporting its postulated role in angiogenesis.

[Effects of Cordyceps sinensis on dimethylnitrosamine-induced liver fibrosis in rats]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effects of Cordyceps sinensis on dimethylnitrosamine-induced liver fibrosis in rats.

METHODS

SD rats were divided into normal control group, untreated group and Cordyceps sinensis-treated group. The rats in each group were fed with corresponding drug for 4 weeks. The rat's liver collagen deposition was observed with collagen staining. Hydroxyproline (Hyp) contents in liver tissue of the rats in 3 groups were determined with HCl hydrolysis. The tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) and type IV collagen contents were observed by Envision, and matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2) activity was detected by the method of enzyme-picture. Type I collagen was detected by Western blotting.

RESULTS

The contents of Hyp, TIMP-2, type IV collagen, and the expression of type I collagen in untreated group were significantly higher than those in the normal control group, while those in Cordyceps sinensis-treated group were significantly lower than those in the untreated group. The content of MMP-2 in untreated group was significantly lower than that in the normal control group, while that in Cordyceps sinensis-treated group was significantly higher than that in the untreated group.

CONCLUSION

Cordyceps sinensis can considerably relieve the liver fibrosis, and the mechanism may be related to promoting the degradation of the collagens.

Aberrant tubulointerstitial immunoexpression of matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2, MMP-9 and tissue inhibitor of matrix proteinase-2 (TIMP-2) in acute cellular rejection of human renal allograft

Acute cellular rejection (ACR) may initiate chronic allograft dysfunction with alterations in the extracellular matrix compartment (ECM). Turnover of ECM proteins is regulated by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The aim of the present study was to determine the immunoexpression of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-2 in ACR, and to examine the relationship between expression of MMPs and monocytes/macrophages, transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFbeta-1), and alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA). Immunoperoxidase study with antibodies against MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-2, CD68, TGFbeta-1 and alpha-SMA was carried out on 24 renal allograft biopsy specimens from patients with ACR and 11 allograft biopsy specimens from patients with no signs of rejection. Our study revealed increased immunoexpression of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIM-2 in ACR as compared with controls, and significant positive correlations between immunostaining of MMP-2 and TGF-beta-1, as well as between MMP-2 and alpha-SMA. Increased immunoexpression of MMP-9 was positively correlated with alpha-SMA, and the number of interstitial CD68+cells. In conclusion our study supports a role of gelatinases in tissue damage in human renal acute cellular allograft rejection and provides some interesting insights into early renal remodeling which may lead to chronic allograft dysfunction.

Stromal cells play a role in cervical cancer progression mediated by MMP-2 protein

Metalloproteinases, especially metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), are known for their role in the degradation of the extracellular matrix. Nevertheless, a thorough understanding of MMP-2 expression in neoplastic lesions of the uterine cervix has yet to be accomplished. This study aimed to analyze the MMP-2 expression in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia III (CIN3) and in cervical squamous cell carcinoma, in tumor cells and adjacent stromal cells. MMP-2 expression was assessed by an immunohistochemical technique. MMP-2 expression was greater in the stromal cells of invasive carcinomas than in CIN3 (p < 0.0001). MMP-2 expression in stromal cells correlates with the clinical stage, gradually increasing as the tumor progresses (p = 0.04). This study corroborates that stromal cells play an important role in tumor invasion and progression, mediated by the progressive enhancement of MMP-2 expression from CIN3 to advanced invasive tumor. The intense MMP-2 expression most probably is associated with poor tumor prognosis.

Collagen stiffness regulates cellular contraction and matrix remodeling gene expression

Cell-level mechanical and 3D spatial cues are essential to the organization and architecture of new tissues that form during growth, repair or in bioreactors. Fibroblast-seeded 3D collagen constructs have been used as bioartifical extracellular matrix (ECM) providing a 3D environment to embedded resident cells. As cells attach to scaffold fibrils, they generate quantifiable contractile forces which depend on cell type, cell attachment, cell density, growth factors, and matrix stiffness. The aim of this study was to quantify the cytomechanical and molecular responses of human dermal (HDF) and neonatal foreskin fibroblasts (HNFF) seeded in constructs of increased stiffness. We also tested the effect of blocking early attachment using serum starvation on these outputs. Constructs were placed under uniaxial strains of 0-10% to increase scaffold stiffness, prior to gel contraction, and force generation was monitored using a tensional culture force monitor (t-CFM). Increased matrix stiffness reduced generation of quantifiable cellular force (up to 70%) over 24 h in both cell types and delayed the onset of measurable contraction (upto sevenfold). The delay of measurable force generation was cell lineage dependent but not FCS dependent. Gene expression of MMP-2, TIMP-2, and collagen type III expression in HDFs were significantly upregulated in constructs of increased stiffness. HNFFs did not show any significant changes in these gene expressions indicating a lineage specific response.

Activation ratio of MMP-2 and expression of MT1-MMP are correlated in thymic epithelial tumours

AIMS

To study the relationships between the activation of pro-MMP-2 and the mRNA levels of MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 in thymic tissues and thymic epithelial tumours.

METHODS

We examined the mRNA expressions of MMP-2, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 with real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The gelatinolytic activity and MMP-2 activation ratio of thymic tissues, thymomas, and thymic carcinomas were determined with gelatin zymography. The cellular localisation of MMP-2 was detected with film in situ gelatin zymography. We then examined the mRNA expression of MMP-2 in the epithelial tumour cells or lymphocytes and stromal cells distant from the tumour (obtained from two invasive thymomas) using laser-capture microdissection (LCM).

RESULTS

The mRNA levels of MMP-2, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 were significantly increased from thymic tissue, Stage I-II, III-IV thymomas to thymic carcinomas (p<0.005). They were also significantly increased from AB-B1 (lymphocyte rich and mixed types), B2-B3 (cortical and predominantly polygonal cells types) thymomas to thymic carcinomas (p<0.05). The MMP-2 activation ratio also had the same tendency among the above groups (p<0.05) and was directly correlated to MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 mRNA expression (Spearman rank correlation: r = 0.8627, r = 0.8314; p<0.005). Film in situ zymography demonstrated that positive expression is mainly localised in tumour cell nests and adjacent stroma cells. LCM and real-time RT-PCR results confirmed that the expression of MMP-2 was higher in epithelial tumour cells than in lymphocytes and stromal cells.

CONCLUSIONS

MMP-2, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 mRNA expression levels were correlated with clinical stages and histological subtypes of thymic epithelial tumours. The activation of pro-MMP-2 might be mediated by MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 up-regulation.

Expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP) genes in blasts of infant acute lymphoblastic leukemia with organ involvement

The mRNA contents of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9, tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP)-1 and TIMP-2 in leukemia cells from 33 infants with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) were quantified at initial presentation, and the correlation between their expression and patient clinical characteristics was examined. The mRNA contents of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were not associated with any patient characteristics. Positive correlation was found between hepatosplenomegaly and the MMP-2/TIMP-1 and MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratios (p=0.005 and 0.009) and between CNS involvement and the MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio (p=0.012). The results suggest that MMP/TIMP balance is closely related to the infiltration of leukemia cells into extramedullary organs.

Significant relationship of matrix metalloproteinase 9 with nuclear grade and prognostic impact of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 for incidental clear cell renal cell carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

To examine the immunoreactivity of tumors for matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 (MMP-2, MMP-9), tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases 1 and 2 (TIMP-1, TIMP-2), and membrane type MMP 1 (MT-MMP-1), to evaluate the optimum assessment of incidental renal cell carcinoma.

METHODS

Tumor samples from 120 incidental clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ICRCC) patients without distant metastasis or invasion beyond Gerota's fascia were obtained by surgery. They were immunohistochemically stained for MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, and MT-MMP-1. Immunoreactivity for these factors was analyzed by semiquantitative multivariate analysis for cancer-specific survival.

RESULTS

The cancer-specific 5 and 10-year survival rates were 91.4% and 91.4%, respectively. Univariate analysis revealed that nuclear grade (P = 0.0064) and TIMP-2 (P = 0.034) were significant prognostic factors. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 has a significant relationship with high nuclear grade RCC (P = 0.017) and was found to be an independent prognosticator by Cox multiple regression analysis (P = 0.0028).

CONCLUSIONS

Nuclear grade and TIMP-2 were significant prognostic factors of ICRCC. Multivariate analysis showed that a nuclear grade greater than 3 was associated with a 566% significant increase in the odds of cancer death. Strong expression of MMP-9 was associated with a 774% increase in the odds of high nuclear grade, with statistical significance. Although ICRCC is well known for having a favorable prognosis, patients with tumors having a high nuclear grade and strongly expressed MMP-9 and TIMP-2 should undergo strict postoperative follow-up.

Mucin 15 is expressed in human placenta and suppresses invasion of trophoblast-like cells in vitro

BACKGROUND

Trophoblast invasion is crucial for the development of normal placentas. Mucins are suggested to be involved in cancer invasion. However, the function of mucins in trophoblast invasion has never been reported. This study was to investigate the expression of mucin (MUC) 15 in human placenta and its role in trophoblast invasion.

METHODS

MUC15 mRNA in human tissues was analyzed by Northern blot. MUC15 mRNA and protein in human placenta were detected by real-time RT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. The distribution of MUC15 was revealed by immunohistochemistry. The effects of MUC15 on trophoblast invasion in vitro were analyzed by matrigel invasion assay in human choriocarcinoma JAR and JEG-3 cells.

RESULTS

MUC15 was expressed most highly in human placenta. MUC15 mRNA and protein increased with gestational age (P < 0.05, first versus third trimester). Immunohistochemistry showed that MUC15 protein was expressed by both cytotrophoblasts and syncytiotrophoblasts, especially at the apical membrane of syncytiotrophoblasts. In addition, MUC15 was found to be present in the glandular epithelium of the decidua. Overexpression of MUC15 substantially decreased matrigel invasion of JAR and JEG-3 cells by 87.5 +/- 1.1 and 83.8 +/- 5.7%, respectively, versus control, which was closely associated with an increase in mRNA expression of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-1 and TIMP-2. Knockdown of MUC15 with small interfering RNA significantly reversed these effects (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Differential expression of MUC15 in human placentas may play a critical role in the regulation of trophoblast invasion.

Analysis of the signal transduction pathway of nickel-induced matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression in the human keratinocytes in vitro: preliminary findings

BACKGROUND

Nickel can induce cellular and nuclear damages responsible for chronic diseases, like allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). We previously showed that matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) gene expression was induced by nickel in nontumorigenic human keratinocytes cell line (HaCat).

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the signal transduction pathways involved in gelatinolytic activity induced in HaCat under nickel stimulation.

METHODS

We analyzed the involvement of protein kinase A (PKA), protein kinase C (PKC), tyrosine kinase (PTK), nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB) and activator protein-1 (AP-1) using specific inhibitors (H89, calphostin C, genistein, carpain and curcumin) by electrophoretic mobility shift assay, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and gelatin zymography.

RESULTS

Our results indicate that nickel-induced MMP-2 production was inhibited with PTK, PKC and AP-1 specific inhibitors. Moreover, both PKA and NF-kB were not involved in nickel pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Using HaCat, we showed that curcumin and genistein can revert nickel-induced MMP-2 upregulation. Whether the use of PTK and AP-1 inhibitors has therapeutic ramifications in the management of ACD remains to be investigated.

Clinicopathological assessment and quantitative estimation of the matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-7 and the inhibitors TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 in colorectal carcinoma tissue samples

BACKGROUND

The matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) are a family of proteolytic enzymes involved in tumor growth and in the process of invasion. The aim of our study was to test the levels of MMP-2, MMP-7, and the MMP inhibitors TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 mRNA in colorectal carcinoma tissue samples with the clinicopathological status of the disease.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Colorectal carcinoma tissue samples were obtained from 38 patients who underwent resection of colorectal carcinoma. The expression levels of mRNA of MMP-2, MMP-7, TIMP-1, TIMP-2 and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) as a housekeeping gene were quantified in these tissue samples using the method of reverse transcription real-time PCR.

RESULTS

It was found that the levels of mRNA expression of MMP-2, TIMP-2, MMP-7 and TIMP-1 were significantly higher in tumor tissue samples than in the normal colorectal tissue (p < 0.0020, p < 0.0467, p < 0.0007 and p < 0.0003 respectively). The level of mRNA expression of MMP-2, MMP-7, TIMP-2 and TIMP-1 did not correlate with the stage of the disease, localization of the tumor, metastatic spread or with disease-free survival (DFI). We recorded a statistically significant inverse negative correlation (r = -0.85; p < 0.0001) between the levels of MMP-7 mRNA and TIMP-2 mRNA. Correlations between the values of mRNA MMP-7 vs. TIMP-1, MMP-2 vs. TIMP-2, MMP-2 vs. TIMP-1 and MMP-2 vs. MMP-7 were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

We found that there were statistically significant differences in the levels of MMP-2, MMP-7, TIMP-1, TIMP-2 mRNA between normal colorectal tissue and tumor tissue, but we did not find any statistically significant correlation between mRNA levels of MMP-2, MMP-7, TIMP-1, TIMP-2 expression and localization of tumor, clinical stage or course of disease. We found an inverse negative statistically significant correlation between mRNA levels of MMP-7 and TIMP-2. On the basis of these results the clinical use of this approach to the determination of a prognosis is ambiguous.

[Effects of tissue inhibitor-3 of matrix metalloproteinases gene-transfected vascular smooth muscle cells transplantation on initial myocardium remodeling after acute myocardial infarction]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of tissue inhibitor-3 of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP-3) gene-transfected vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) transplantation on heart structure after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in rats and to explore the potential mechanisms.

METHODS

Sixty-one female Wistar rats were produced AMI models by ligating the descending left coronary artery. Fifty-four rats were survived and divided into 3 groups randomly (n= 18): 0.5 ml PBS containing 1 x 10(6) TIMP-3 gene-transfected VSMCs (group A), 1 x 10(6) VSMCs (group B) or 0.5 ml PBS without cell(group C) were injected into the ischemic myocardium immediately. Ischemic myocardium samples were harvested at 1 week after operation. The heart structure was observed through the tissue morphologic examination. The activity of TIMP-3 gene-transfected VSMCs were measured by immunohistochemical method. Proteins of TIMP-3 and matrix metalloproteinase 9(MMP-9) were determined by Western blot.

RESULTS

VSMCs were cultivated and had a high purity (98%). TIMP-3 gene was transfected into VSMCs successfully. One week after operation in groups A, B and C, the average percentage of infarction myocardium size and left ventricle free wall area were 28.73%+/-1.56%, 39.63%+/-1.84% and 46.32%+/-2.16% separately. Group A was significantly lower than groups B and C (P<0.01), group B was significantly lower than group C (P<0.01). In groups A, B and C the average left ventricle volume indexes were 5.27+/-0.21 mm3/g, 6.69+/-0.34 mm3/g and 9.67+/-0.88 mm3/g respectively. Group A was significantly smaller than groups B and C (P<0.01), group B was significantly smaller than group C (P<0.01). The immunohistochemical observation confirmed that the implanted VSMCs and TIMP-3 gene were survival in ischemic area. The protein content of TIMP-3 in ischemic myocardium was significantly higher in group A (300 704.8+/-3 692.8) than in groups B and C (195548.8+/-3014.2, 177991.1+/-2502.1) (P<0.01), the protein content of MMP-9 in ischemic myocardium was significantly lower in group A (594827.4+/-5708.5) than in groups B and C (921461.4+/-8887.4, 1044445.0+/-8788.6) (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

Implanted TIMP-3 gene transfected VSMCs in ischemic myocardium can conspicuously reduce the myocardium remodeling after AMI.

RETRACTED: Doxycycline alters the expression of matrix metalloproteases in the endometrial cells exposed to ovarian steroids and pro-inflammatory cytokine

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal). This article has been retracted at the request of the Editors following an investigation by the Office of Research Integrity (ORI) at the Department of Health and Human Services. The investigation confirmed that the data presented has been falsified by the last author.

ANGIOTENSIN II INCREASES TISSUE-SPECIFIC INHIBITOR OF METALLOPROTEINASE-2 EXPRESSION IN RAT AORTIC SMOOTH MUSCLE CELLS IN VIVO: EVIDENCE OF A PRESSURE-INDEPENDENT EFFECT

1. Angiotensin (Ang) II plays a major role in vascular remodelling. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) are involved in the tissue remodelling processes. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether AngII modulates TIMP-2 expression in rat aortic smooth muscle cells in vivo. 2. Angiotensin II (200 ng/kg per min, s.c.) or AngII + losartan (10 mg/kg per day, s.c.) or normal saline was administered continuously by osmotic minipumps to Sprague-Dawley rats for 1 week. In addition, the effect of endogenous AngII on TIMP-2 expression was evaluated in renovascular hypertensive rats (two kidney, one clip (2K1C) and one kidney, one clip (1K1C) models). Control rats (sham 2K1C and sham 1K1C rats) underwent sham-clipping of the left renal artery. At the end of the treatment, plasma renin activity was measured by radioimmunoassay, aortic TIMP-2 mRNA expression was evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction and/or northern blotting and protein expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured twice a week by the tail-cuff method. 3. Exogenous AngII administration produced the expected increase in SBP (P = 0.02) compared with the control saline-treated group. The increase in SBP was abolished in AngII + losartan-treated rats. Administration of AngII caused a significant increase in TIMP-2 expression (P = 0.01) in rat aortic smooth muscle cells that was abolished in AngII + losartan-treated rats. In renovascular hypertensive rats, SBP was higher (P < 0.0001) in 2K1C and 1K1C rats compared with the corresponding sham-operated rats. Plasma renin activity was higher (P < 0.01) in 2K1C rats compared with the other groups. The expression of TIMP-2 was significantly (P < 0.05) increased only in 2K1C rats. 4. Our in vivo data demonstrate that exogenous and endogenous AngII increases TIMP-2 expression in rat aortic smooth muscle cells. This effect is not dependent on the AngII-induced increase in blood pressure and is mediated by angiotensin AT1 receptors.

A biologically active angiogenesis inhibitor, human serum albumin-TIMP-2 fusion protein, secreted from Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) is an endogenous and bi-functional inhibitor of angiogenesis. TIMP-2 is expressed in an insoluble form in Escherichia coli and secreted at a very low level from yeast. Here, we report on a high level of secretion of TIMP-2 fused with human serum albumin (HSA) from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The secreted HSA-TIMP-2 fusion protein (87kDa) was purified to greater than 95% homogeneity. The HSA-TIMP-2 protein inhibited approximately 81% of tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) when studied at a concentration of 187microM. The systemic administration of HSA-TIMP-2 at 40mg/kg to the C57B1/6 mouse inhibited the growth of B16BL6 tumors. Furthermore, a combination treatment of HSA-TIMP-2 with 5-fluorouracil (50mg/kg) showed significant effects on tumor growth in this model. The high level of secretion of the biologically active angiogenesis inhibitor from S. cerevisiae should facilitate fundamental research and application studies of HSA-TIMP-2, as an attractive candidate for therapeutic agents treating angiogenesis-related diseases.

[MMP-2/TIMP-2 expression in the trophoblasts of patients with gestational trophoblastic disease]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the role of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitor of MMP-2 (TIMP-2) in the pathogenesis, development and prognosis of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD).

METHODS

In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry were utilized for MMP-2/TIMP-2 mRNA and protein detection in normal chorion of women with early gestation, hydatidiform mole, invasive mole, or choricarcinoma.

RESULTS

The results revealed that specific staining for mRNA and protein of MMP-2 and the expression of TIMP-2 was reduced in normal chorion of early gestation. In GTD ranging from hydatidiform mole, invasive mole to choricarcinoma, MMP-2 expression tended to increase while TIMP-2 expression underwent an invert change. The positivity rate of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in gestational trophoblastic tumor group was higher than that of the normal chorion of early gestation group and hydatiform mole group (P<0.05 and P<0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

A disrupted balance between the activation and inhibition of MMP-2 plays a critical role in the pathogenesis, progression and metastasis of GTD.

Clinicopathologic and prognostic significance of matrix metalloproteinases in rectal cancer

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The aim of this study was to determine the prognostic role of matrix metalloproteinases in rectal cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue sections of 94 rectal carcinomas were used for the immunohistochemical analysis of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2, MMP-7, MT1-MMP, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-2. Inclusion criteria were sporadic rectal adenocarcinoma resected curatively (including total mesorectal excision), adjuvant radiochemotherapy in UICC stages II and III, and complete intra-institutional follow-up. Results of immunohistochemistry were correlated with clinical and histopathologic data from the prospective rectal cancer registry and prognosis. End points of the prognostic analysis were tumor progression caused by local and/or distant recurrence and 5-year survival (disease-free and overall). To assess prognostic significance, statistics included univariate and multivariate analysis (p<0.05 statistically significant).

RESULTS

Of the 94 rectal carcinomas, 35% (33/94) showed an epithelial MMP-2 expression, 77% (72/94) were MMP-2 positive in the stroma. Fifty-four percent (51/94) were MMP-7 positive, and 47% (46/94) were positive for both MT1-MMP and TIMP-2. The stromal MMP-2 staining pattern was correlated with the depth of invasion (pT status, p=0.006) with MMP-7 (p=0.016) and TIMP-2 expression (p=0.036). Positive expression of MMP-2 in tumor epithelium was correlated with MMP-7 (p=0.027), MT1-MMP (p=0.036), and TIMP-2 expression (p<0.0001). A positive staining pattern of MMP-7 was significantly correlated with depth of invasion and TIMP-2 (p<0.01). The positive staining pattern of MT1-MMP was correlated with epithelial MMP-2 (p=0.036), MMP-7 (p=0.004), and TIMP-2 expression (p=0.002). TIMP-2 immunoreactivity correlated with depth of invasion (p=0.013), epithelial MMP-2 (p<0.001), stromal MMP-2 (p=0.036), MMP-7 (p<0.001), and MT1-MMP (p=0.002). Neither pattern correlated with age, gender, tumor stage (UICC), grading, preoperative serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level, or nodal status (p>0.05). Within a mean follow-up of 46 months, tumor progression, caused by either local recurrence or distant metastasis, occurred in 14 patients (15.4%). There was no significant association between the MMP expression and the incidence of local and/or distant recurrence. In terms of survival, preoperative CEA level (disease-free 5-year survival 46% with increased CEA vs 70% with normal CEA, p=0.01; overall 5-year survival 43 vs 74%, p<0.01) and UICC stage were the only factors to be significantly related to 5-year survival by univariate analysis, whereas the metalloproteinases failed to show a significant association. In multivariate analysis, CEA and UICC stage were not identified as independent factors predictive of survival.

CONCLUSION

MMP-2, MMP-7, MT1-MMP, and TIMP-2 do not appear to be significant predictors of prognosis in a homogenous collective of curatively resected rectal adenocarcinomas.

Matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors in children with chronic hepatitis B treated with lamivudine

PURPOSE

To evaluate if measurements of MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 have clinical applicability as markers of liver fibrosis and to assess the effect of long-term lamivudine treatment on liver fibrosis in children with chronic hepatitis B (chB).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The observation was carried out on 41 children with biopsy proven chB (HBe/+/, HBVDNA/+/) who were nonresponders to previous IFNalpha therapy. Lamivudine was administered in the group of 29 children (3 mg/kg/day, maximum 100 mg/daily). The serum concentration of examined markers was measured with ELISA before and after 24 months of therapy. ROC analysis was used to calculate the power of the assays to detect advanced liver fibrosis (score >2 according to Batts & Ludwig).

RESULTS

Serum TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 levels were significantly higher and MMP-9 lower in children with chB compared to controls. There was a significant positive correlation between serum MMP-2 and negative correlation between MMP-9 level and the stage of liver fibrosis. The ability of serum MMP-9 to differentiate children with mild fibrosis from those with advanced fibrosis was significant (AUC = 0.75; p = 0.03). Other serum markers did not allow a useful prediction. 2-year lamivudine treatment did not improve histological fibrosis but it caused significant decrease of serum TIMP-2 (p = 0.01) and increase of MMP-9 level (p = 0.00005).

CONCLUSIONS

MMP-9 is a better serum fibrosis marker than MMP-2, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 to diagnose children with advanced liver fibrosis. The significant decrease of TIMP-2 and increase of MMP-9 level during therapy suggest antifibrotic effect of lamivudine in children with chB.