TIMP-3 mRNA is not overexpressed in Sorsby fundus dystrophy.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the expression of MMP (matrix metalloproteinase)-2 and -9 and TIMP (tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases)-1, -2, and -3 in Sorsby fundus dystrophy.


METHODS
Cliniciopathological report.


METHODS
A donor eye with a confirmed S181C mutation in the TIMP-3 gene and an age-matched normal donor eye were studied using in situ hybridization technique with MMP -2 and -9 and TIMP -1, -2, and -3 probes.


RESULTS
There is a reduction of mRNA expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-3 in the Sorsby retinal pigment epithelium cells.


CONCLUSIONS
Increased expression of TIMP-3 mRNA does not cause accumulation of TIMP-3 in the Bruch membrane of Sorsby fundus dystrophy nor is it likely to cause age-related macular degeneration.
Department of Ophthalmology, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom. victor@eretina.org
Ngai Hang Victor
NH
Chong
Anders
A
Kvanta
Stefan
S
Seregard
Alan C
AC
Bird
Philip J
PJ
Luthert
Bjorn
B
Steen
D015342:DNA Probes; D005654:Fundus Oculi; D006801:Humans; D017403:In Situ Hybridization; D020778:Matrix Metalloproteinase 2 / Q000235:genetics; D020780:Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 / Q000235:genetics; D010857:Pigment Epithelium of Eye / Q000378:metabolism*; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000378:metabolism*; D012162:Retinal Degeneration / Q000378:metabolism*; D019715:Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-1 / Q000235:genetics; D019716:Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-2 / Q000235:genetics; D019717:Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-3; D019714:Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases / Q000235:genetics*
D015342:DNA Probes; D012333:RNA, Messenger; C088390:TIMP3 protein, human; D019715:Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-1; D019717:Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-3; D019714:Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases; D019716:Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-2; D020778:Matrix Metalloproteinase 2; D020780:Matrix Metalloproteinase 9