Expression And Significance Of Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 And 9 In Oxidative Cataract

Objective To investigate the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 in the lenses of new-zealand rabbits after oxidative damage. Methods Eyes of new-zealand rabbits were excised and lenses were separated under microscope and sterilized condition.The lenses were divided randomly into control group and H₂O₂ group. Lenses were incubated in CO₂ incubator.The capsule and fibre of lenses were collected at 6,12,24 and 48h. The mRNA of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was measured by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) .The activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the lens was verified by gelatin zymography analysis.Results The opacity in control group were lower than those of the H2O2 group at 6,12,24 and 48h. The activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the conrol lenses were not verified by gelatin zymography analysis. The activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the H2O2 lenses capsule were measured by gelatin zymography analysis. The activity of MMP-9 in the H₂O₂ lenses fiber was measured by gelatin zymography analysis.The mRNA of MMP-9 in the H₂O₂ lenses fiber was measured by RT-PCR. The mRNA of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the conrol lenses were not verified by RT-PCR. The mRNA of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the H₂O₂ lenses capsule measured by RT-PCR.Conclusion The upregulation of MMP-2 ,9 gene expression and activity may have contributed to the formation of oxidative cataract.