Extra-Cellular Matrix Proteins Induce Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) Activity and Increase Airway Smooth Muscle Contraction in Asthma

Extra-Cellular Matrix Proteins Induce Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) Activity and Increase Airway Smooth Muscle Contraction in Asthma

Airway remodelling describes the histopathological changes leading to fixed airway obstruction in patients with asthma and includes extra-cellular matrix (ECM) deposition. Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) is present in remodelled airways but its relationship with ECM proteins and the resulting functional consequences are unknown. We used airway smooth muscle cells (ASM) and bronchial biopsies...

The Effect of Adiponectin on Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Background & Aims: Atherosclerosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Adiponectin reducesthe risk of heart disease, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is involved in the formation and development of atherosclerotic plaque. The aim of this study was the investigation of the effect of adiponectin on MMP-9 gene expression. It seems this hormone can reduce the risk of atherosclerosis ...

Dual modulation of airway smooth muscle contraction by Th2 cytokines via matrix metalloproteinase-1 production.

Altered contractility of airway smooth muscle (SM) is one of the main causes of allergic asthma, in which the predominance of Th2 over Th1 cytokines plays a central role. In the present study, we examine the effects of Th2 cytokines on airway SM contraction. Treatment with a low concentration of IL-4 (0.2 ng/ml) for 6 h augmented, whereas higher concentrations (2-20 ng/ml) inhibited, agonist-in...

Metalloproteinase-1 Production Contraction by Th2 Cytokines via Matrix Dual Modulation of Airway Smooth Muscle

Tear levels and activity of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and MMP-9 in vernal keratoconjunctivitis.

PURPOSE To study levels and activity of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and -9 and their tissue inhibitor (TIMP-1) in tears of patients with vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC), with and without severe corneal damage. METHODS Tear samples were obtained from 16 patients with active VKC and 10 normal control subjects, after clinical evaluation and tear cytology. Tear levels of pro-MMP-1, pro-MMP...