Role Of Matrix Metalloproteinase In Acute Pancreatitis-Associated Lung Injury And Pancreatic Remodeling

Aims: To induce experimental AEP and ANP rat model and investigate the changes of MMPs in APALI and the process of regeneration occurring after AEP and ANP. Methods: MMP activity and level in homogenates were assessed by zymography, western blot, and immunohistochemistry. Results and Conclusion: MMP-9 increased in AP in proportion to its severity. Pulmonary and pancreatic injury following AP can be abrogated by treatment with MMP inhibitor which may result in decreased mortality. These findings suggest an important role for MMP-9 in pathogenesis of APALI. TGFβ1, P-smad3, and MMP-2 increased in the process of regeneration occurring after AP in proportion to its severity. TGFβ1-smad3 is a major regulator of ECM remodeling in the rodent pancreas after AP, and may increase the level of MMP-2. The findings suggest that TGFβ1 plays an important role in ECM production in the early phase of AP, and MMP-2 is involved in the subsequent healing process. TGFβ1 inhibitor may contribute to the remodeling of pancreas and decrease the deposition of ECM.