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Abstract #3539 Published in IGR 4-2
Matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in exfoliation syndrome
Gartaganis SP; Georgakopoulos CD; Mela EK; Exarchou A; Ziouti N; Assouti M; Vynios DHOphthalmic Research 2002; 34: 165-171
The purpose of this study was to determine the expression of metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) in the aqueous humor of patients with exfoliation syndrome (XFS). XFS and control samples were analyzed for their MMP content by zymography and for their tissue inhibitors by ELISA. In XFS eyes, an increase of up to 60% in almost all MMPs was observed, compared to the controls. MMP-2 and MMP-9 were found to predominate. TIMP-1 levels in XFS samples were slightly decreased, while TIMP-2 levels were similar to those of the controls. These findings suggest that MMPs could be crucial in the progression of XFS, by degrading the abnormal fibrillar matrix components in the anterior segment tissues of XFS eyes. However, the increased levels of MMPs do not seem to be able to overcome the overproduction and accumulation of the exfoliative material.
Dr. S.P. Gartaganis, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Patras Medical School, University of Patras, Greece
Classification:
9.4.4.1 Exfoliation syndrome (Part of: 9 Clinical forms of glaucomas > 9.4 Glaucomas associated with other ocular and systemic disorders > 9.4.4 Glaucomas associated with disorders of the lens)
