Increased gelatinase A (MMP-2) and gelatinase B (MMP-9) activities in human brain after focal ischemia

Neurosci Lett. 1997 Nov 28;238(1-2):53-6. doi: 10.1016/s0304-3940(97)00859-8.

Abstract

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are involved in remodelling extracellular matrix. Gelatinase B (MMP-9) is an inducible 92 kDa MMP expressed by neutrophils, microglia, and endothelial cells. Gelatinase A (MMP-2) is a 72 kDa MMP, constitutively expressed in brain. Elevated MMP activity has been linked to various pathologic conditions, and the therapeutic benefit of MMP inhibitors is under study in a few experimental models. Using gelatin zymography, we have compared activities of these MMPs in infarcted and matched non-infarcted cerebral tissue from eight subjects dying at intervals of less than 2 h to several years after a stroke. Gelatinase B activity was markedly elevated in the infarcted tissue at two days post-infarction, and remained elevated in cases dying months after the event. Increases in gelatinase A activity were subtle at 2-5 days; they were marked and significant in cases dying at 4 months and later. The findings indicate distinct temporal profiles of post-ischemic gelatinase activity in human brain, with earlier but equally persistent elevation in gelatinase B when compared to gelatinase A.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Brain Ischemia / enzymology*
  • Collagenases / metabolism*
  • Female
  • Gelatinases / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Matrix Metalloproteinase 2
  • Matrix Metalloproteinase 9
  • Metalloendopeptidases / metabolism*
  • Middle Aged
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Collagenases
  • Gelatinases
  • Metalloendopeptidases
  • Matrix Metalloproteinase 2
  • Matrix Metalloproteinase 9