Transcript expression of matrix metalloproteinases in the conjunctiva following glaucoma filtration surgery in rabbits.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the changes in the expression of transcripts of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitor (TIMP) in the conjunctiva following glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS).


METHODS
The reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction method was performed on tissue specimens obtained from adult rabbits undergoing GFS at various postoperative time points.


RESULTS
MMP 1 decreased more than 7-fold from its baseline level during the first 2 weeks following surgery. MMP 2 decreased on the 1st postoperative day, but increased on day 2, and remained elevated for 2 weeks. The postoperative level of MMP 14 did not change much from baseline except that noted on day 9. The TIMP 1 expression showed an early biphasic pattern. MMP 3 and MMP 9 were not detected in all the specimens.


CONCLUSIONS
The transcript expression of MMPs and TIMP 1 in the conjunctiva is altered following GFS, with each gene product demonstrating a unique temporal pattern.
Liu
Catherine Jui-Ling
CJ
Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. jlliu@vghtpe.gov.tw
Huang
Yu-Lun
YL
Chiu
Allen W
AW
Ju
Jyh-Phen
JP
D000818:Animals; D003228:Conjunctiva / Q000378:metabolism*; D017931:DNA Primers / Q000737:chemistry; D018463:Filtering Surgery; D005901:Glaucoma / Q000601:surgery*; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases / Q000235:genetics*; D012313:RNA / Q000302:isolation & purification; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000378:metabolism; D011817:Rabbits; D020133:Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; D019715:Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-1 / Q000235:genetics*; D014158:Transcription, Genetic; D014945:Wound Healing
D017931:DNA Primers; D012333:RNA, Messenger; D019715:Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-1; D012313:RNA; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases