The Biology and Function of Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase 2 in the Lungs

Effects of SB939 are mediated by STAT3 to inhibit breast cancer cell metastasis-related genes

The histone deacetylase inhibitor pracinostat (SB939) may inhibit metastasis of triple-negative breast cancer by downregulating fibronectin (FN1) expression through the STAT3 signaling pathway. SB939 exhibits low cytotoxicity and is a potential targeted agent against breast cancer. The present study investigated the value of STAT3 and FN1 as breast cancer treatment targets and integrated cancer databases and bioinformatics tools to evaluate the effect of SB939 on breast cancer metastasis. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis, Gene Expression Database of Normal and Tumor Tissues 2, The University of Alabama at Birmingham Cancer data analysis portal, GeneMANIA, Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins, LinkedOmics and Tumor Immune Estimation Resource databases were used in the present study. SB939 inhibited enrichment of the STAT3 pathway and decreased the expression of FN1. FN1 and STAT3 expression was markedly higher in breast cancer tissues compared with normal tissues. Kaplan-Meier curves demonstrated that increased expression of STAT3 and FN1 was associated with low survival in patients with breast cancer with overall, recurrence-free and disease-specific survival and FN1 having the strongest association with MMP2, which facilitating extracellular matrix degradation and metastatic niche formation. Furthermore, MMP2 exhibits crosstalk STAT3 to induce metastasis of breast cancer cells. To conclude, SB939 may be used as a small molecule compound for the clinical treatment of breast cancer.

Distinct structural basis and catalytic classification of matrix metalloproteinases and their endogenous tissue inhibitors with glycosylation issue in cellular and tissue regulation

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) enzymes cleave proteins on the extracellular matrix (ECM) region. MMPs are categorized as Zn2+-binding endo-proteinases. MMPs are stringently regulated in cancers, inflammatory cells and tissues. There are 29 types of MMPs as initially expressed in inactive zymogens (proMMPs) and activated by proteolysis in vertebrates including human. MMPs consist of three highly conserved parts of pro-MMP in precursor, catalytic and hemopexin domains. The MMPs are composed of systemic complexes with their endogenously expressed inhibitors of the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Therefore, TIMPs intrinsically control such activated MMPs, indicating the existence of self-modulation capacity. N-linked glycosylation (N-glycosylation) saves biological information than known phosphorylation, ubiquitination and acetylation. The MMPs are roughly present as membrane-merged and secreted glycoproteins. MMPs N-glycans regulate cellular behaviors, immune tolerance, and developing angiogenesis. Aberrant N-glycosylation of MMPs may cause the pathogenic properties. N-glycosylation shapes phenotypes of MMPs-producing cells during early MMPs involved in human. Additionally, issues of MMPs and TIMPs glycosylation have been described to view the importance of the glycans in their interaction with owns and other targets. Most of MMPs and 4 TIMPs are not well studied for their glycosylation and its functional roles.

Morin hydrate rebalances the miR-34a/Sirt1/HMGB1 pathway and abrogates radiation-induced nephritis via targeting Nrf2-miR-125b axis

Morin hydrate (MH), a natural substance that lessens cell death, has been shown to have renal protective effects; however, the prospective molecular mechanism behind this response still unclear. The current study aimed to throw more light on the principal mechanism of morin hydrate (MH) in alleviating the acute kidney injury by ionizing radiation (IR) in vivo. Animals were divided into 4groups (Groups: control, (5Gy) irradiated (IRR), (40 mg/kg) MH, and MH + IRR). The results indicated that MH could significantly inhibit kidney damage and restore its structure and function (reduced urea by 55.86 % and creatinine by 55.24 %). In mechanism, MH prevented IR-induced kidney fibrosis and blocked the miR34a and HMGB1/TIMP-2 signaling cascades to effectively inhibit the renal inflammatory response; and prevented IR-induced oxidative stress (OS) by activating the Sirt1/Nrf2/miR-125b signaling axis and stimulating the synthesis of several antioxidant enzymes. MH reduced lipid peroxidation (36.96 %) by reducing the reactive oxygen species (61.9 %) production and rising antioxidant enzymes levels thus hindering inflammatory response and alleviating IR-induced kidney fibrosis. In conclusion, we proposed that MH can prevent radiation-induced nephritis and fibrosis by rebalancing the miR-34a/Sirt1/HMGB1 pathway and targeting Nrf2-miR-125b axis.

Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase 2 Promotes Wound Healing by Suppressing Matrix Metalloproteinases and Inflammatory Cytokines in Corneal Epithelial Cells

Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) modulate extracellular matrix remodeling for maintaining homeostasis and promoting cell migration and proliferation. Pathologic conditions can alter TIMP homeostasis and aggravate disease progression. The roles of TIMPs have been studied in tissue-related disorders; however, their contributions to tissue repair during corneal injury are undefined. Here, the TIMP expression in human corneal epithelial cells under homeostatic and inflammatory milieus was profiled to examine their contribution to the healing of injured corneal epithelia. Transcriptionally, TIMP2 was highly expressed in human corneal epithelial cells when stimulated with 100 ng/mL IL1B or scratch wounded. Unlike TIMP1, recombinant TIMP2 (rTIMP2) significantly promoted epithelial cell wound closure compared with untreated and TIMP2-neutralizing conditions. At 12 hours, the Ki-67+ cells significantly increased threefold in number compared with untreated cells, suggesting that rTIMP2 is associated with cell proliferation. Furthermore, rTIMP2 treatment significantly suppressed inflammatory cytokine expression (IL1B, IL6, IL8, and TNFA) and injury-induced matrix metalloproteinases (MMP1, MMP2, MMP3, MMP9, MMP10, and MMP13). Topical treatment of injured mouse cornea with 0.1 mg/mL rTIMP2 significantly promoted corneal re-epithelialization and improved tissue integrity. The treatment suppressed the expression of inflammatory cytokines and MMPs, as well as the infiltration of neutrophils at the injury site. These findings indicate that TIMP2 promotes faster wound healing by suppressing injury-induced inflammation and MMP expression, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for corneal wound management.

Parallel Networks to Predict TIMP and Protease Cell Activity of Nucleus Pulposus Cells Exposed and Not Exposed to Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines

Background

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is characterized by a disruption of the balance between anabolic and catabolic cellular processes. Within the nucleus pulposus (NP), this involves increased levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin 1beta (IL1B) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and an upregulation of the protease families matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS). Primary inhibitors of these proteases are the tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP). This work aims at contributing to a better understanding of the dynamics among proteases, TIMP, and pro-inflammatory cytokines within the complex, multifactorial environment of the NP.

Methods

The Parallel Network (PN)-Methodology was used to estimate relative mRNA expressions of TIMP1-3, MMP3, and ADAMTS4 for five simulated human activities: walking, sitting, jogging, hiking with 20 kg extra weight, and exposure to high vibration. Simulations were executed for nutrient conditions in non- and early-degenerated IVD approximations. To estimate the impact of cytokines, the PN-Methodology inferred relative protein levels for IL1B and TNF, reintegrated as secondary stimuli into the network.

Results

TIMP1 and TIMP2 expressions were found to be overall lower than TIMP3 expression. In the absence of pro-inflammatory cytokines, MMP3 and/or ADAMTS4 expressions were strongly downregulated in all conditions but vibration and hiking with extra weight. Pro-inflammatory cytokine exposure resulted in an impaired inhibition of MMP3, rather than of ADAMTS4, progressively rising with increasing nutrient deprivation. TNF mRNA was less expressed than IL1B. However, at the protein level, TNF was mainly responsible for the catabolic shift in the simulated pro-inflammatory environment. Overall, results agreed with previous experimental findings.

Conclusions

The PN-Methodology successfully allowed the exploration of the relative dynamics of TIMP and protease regulations in different mechanical, nutritional, and inflammatory environments in the NP. It shall stand as a comprehensive tool to integrate in vitro model results in IVD research and approximate NP cell activities in complex multifactorial environments.

Matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors as upcoming biomarker signatures of connective tissue diseases-related interstitial lung disease: towards an earlier and accurate diagnosis

BACKGROUND

Lack of understanding of interstitial lung disease (ILD) associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) hinders the early and accurate identification of these devastating diseases. Current clinical tools limitations highlight the need to complement them with accessible and non-invasive methods. Accordingly, we focused on identifying useful matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) as new biomarkers with clinical value in the diagnosis and prognosis of RA-ILD+ and SSc-ILD+.

METHODS

Peripheral blood was collected from patients with RA-ILD+ (n = 49) and SSc-ILD+ (n = 38); as well as with RA-ILD- (n = 25), SSc-ILD- (n = 20) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) (n = 39). MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-7, MMP-9, MMP-10, MMP-12, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 serum levels were measured using xMAP Technology.

RESULTS

Concerning early connective tissue disease (CTD)-ILD+ diagnosis, increased MMP-7, MMP-9, MMP-10, and MMP-12 levels were found in RA-ILD+ and SSc-ILD+ patients in relation to RA-ILD- and SSc-ILD- patients, respectively. RA-ILD+ patients showed higher MMP-2 levels and lower TIMP-1 levels than RA-ILD- patients. Interestingly, a reliable utility for identifying ILD in CTD was confirmed for the MMP-2, MMP-7, MMP-9, MMP-10, MMP-12, and TIMP-1 combination in RA and MMP-7, MMP-9, MMP-10, and MMP-12 combinatorial signature in SSc. Regarding accurate CTD-ILD+ diagnosis, RA-ILD+ and SSc-ILD+ patients showed lower MMP-7 and MMP-10 levels than IPF patients. Lower MMP-9 and TIMP-1 levels and higher MMP-3 levels were found in RA-ILD+ compared to IPF. Remarkably, effectively better differentiation between CTD-ILD+ and IPF was confirmed for a 5-biomarker signature consisting of MMP-3, MMP-7, MMP-9, MMP-10, and TIMP-1 in RA as well as for the MMP-7 and MMP-10 combination in SSc. Finally, in RA-ILD+ patients, higher MMP-10 levels were associated with worse pulmonary function, increased MMP-2 levels were related to the treatment with conventional synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, and decreased TIMP-1 levels were linked with positivity rheumatoid factor status.

CONCLUSIONS

MMPs and TIMPs form combinatorial biomarker signatures with clinical value for non-invasive, early, and accurate diagnosis of RA-ILD+ and SSc-ILD+, constituting promising screening tools in clinical practice.

Plasma levels of matrix metalloproteinases in early psychosis, anxiety and depression: Evidence from the ALSPAC cohort

BACKGROUND

Converging evidence supports the role of Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) in psychiatric disorders. Originally identified as regulators of the extracellular matrix (ECM), MMPs' functions span multiple processes, including inflammation, synaptic plasticity, neuronal migration, and blood-brain barrier maintenance. Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are major regulators of MMPs. In the present study we examined the associations of plasma MMPs and TIMPs with mental disorders in young adults aged 24 years in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC).

METHODS

The present study was a nested case control study within the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children and comprised 374 participants who met criteria for psychiatric disorders (35 met the criteria for psychotic disorder, 201 for mild/moderate depressive disorder, and 266 for generalised anxiety disorder) and 401 controls. All cases and controls had were selected from the group of 4019 participants who had attended at age 24 years, completed psychiatric assessments and provided plasma samples. Plasma concentrations of MMP2, MMP3, MMP9 and TIMP-4 were quantified using proximity extension assays available on Olink® Cardiovascular Panel III. Logistic regression analysis compared standardised MMPs and TIMPs levels in cases and controls. Models were adjusted for sex, body mass index, and cigarette smoking.

RESULTS

There was evidence for an association between MMP3 and depressive disorder (Odds ratio [OR] 1.35, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.06-1.73). There was evidence for an association between TIMP4 and depressive disorder (OR 1.51, 95 % CI 1.22-1.88) and generalised anxiety disorder (OR 1.43, 95 % CI 1.19-1.72). There was no evidence for an association between MMPs and psychotic disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

The study revealed that 24-year-olds with depressive and anxiety disorders exhibited elevated plasma concentrations of TIMP-4 compared to controls. There was evidence for an association between MMP3 and depressive disorder. These findings provide further support for the involvement of metalloproteinases as biomarkers in the pathophysiology of mental disorders during early adulthood.

Assessing Gelatinase Activity in Normal and Disease Uterine Tissue and Cells Via Gelatin Zymography

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are critical for the maintenance and remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) under normal physiological conditions such as pregnancy and wound healing. However, an increase of MMPs in uterine diseases, such as adenomyosis, endometrial cancer, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids, has been observed and suspected to contribute to important pathophysiology phenotypes like invasion and migration. Of note, MMP-2 (also referred to as gelatinase A) and MMP-9 (also referred to as gelatinase B) are common gelatinases that have demonstrated increased activity in uterine diseases and in several cancer types, such as breast cancer, to promote cancerous phenotypes like increased invasion and migration. In-gel zymography is a useful technique for the detection of MMP activity via degradation of gelatin in gelatin-based gels. Using zymography, it is possible to assess the activity levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 via gelatin degradation during the zymography process. Here, we will describe the process of zymography and assessment of MMP activity levels (MMP-2 and MMP-9) for both uterine tissues and cancerous cell lines.

Targeting Invasion: The Role of MMP-2 and MMP-9 Inhibition in Colorectal Cancer Therapy

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the most prevalent and lethal cancers worldwide, prompting ongoing research into innovative therapeutic strategies. This review aims to systematically evaluate the role of gelatinases, specifically MMP-2 and MMP-9, as therapeutic targets in CRC, providing a critical analysis of their potential to improve patient outcomes. Gelatinases, specifically MMP-2 and MMP-9, play critical roles in the processes of tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. Their expression and activity are significantly elevated in CRC, correlating with poor prognosis and lower survival rates. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiological roles of gelatinases in CRC, highlighting their contribution to tumor microenvironment modulation, angiogenesis, and the metastatic cascade. We also critically evaluate recent advancements in the development of gelatinase inhibitors, including small molecule inhibitors, natural compounds, and novel therapeutic approaches like gene silencing techniques. Challenges such as nonspecificity, adverse side effects, and resistance mechanisms are discussed. We explore the potential of gelatinase inhibition in combination therapies, particularly with conventional chemotherapy and emerging targeted treatments, to enhance therapeutic efficacy and overcome resistance. The novelty of this review lies in its integration of recent findings on diverse inhibition strategies with insights into their clinical relevance, offering a roadmap for future research. By addressing the limitations of current approaches and proposing novel strategies, this review underscores the potential of gelatinase inhibitors in CRC prevention and therapy, inspiring further exploration in this promising area of oncological treatment.

Association of blood inflammatory phenotypes and asthma burden in children with moderate-to-severe asthma

Background

Underlying immunological mechanisms in children with moderate-to-severe asthma are complex and unclear. We aimed to investigate the association between blood inflammatory parameters and asthma burden in children with moderate-to-severe asthma.

Methods

Blood inflammatory parameters (eosinophil and neutrophil counts and inflammatory mediators using multiplex immunoassay technology) were measured in children (6-17 years) with moderate-to-severe asthma from the SysPharmPediA cohort across four European countries. Based upon low/high blood eosinophil (LBE/HBE) counts of

Results

Among 126 included children (41% girls and mean (sd) age of 11.94 (2.76)), 22%, 44%, 11% and 23% were classified as mixed, eosinophilic, neutrophilic and paucigranulocytic phenotypes, respectively. Neutrophilic children had the lowest lung function (forced expiratory volume in 1 s % predicted pre-salbutamol) compared with other groups. Children with mixed asthma were most often uncontrolled and had the highest asthma-related school absence in the past year. Interleukin (IL)-6 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 levels were significantly higher in patients with mixed or neutrophilic asthma, whereas tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 was lower in patients with neutrophilic asthma compared with eosinophilic or paucigranulocytic asthma. IL-5 was increased in eosinophilic group compared with the neutrophilic and paucigranulocytic groups, irrespective of the chosen cut-off for eosinophilia.

Conclusion

Differences in asthma burden-related clinical expression and distinct blood inflammatory mediator profiles were found between phenotypes, highlighting implications for optimising personalised treatment and management strategies in children with moderate-to-severe asthma.

Collapse

Key Words Collapse

MESH Headings Collapse

Grants

• Ministry of Education, Science, and Sport of the Republic of Slovenia
• German Ministry of Education and Research
• ZonMw
• ERACoSysMed

Collapse

Affiliation(s)

Amir Hossein Alizadeh Bahmani Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Public Health, Personalized Medicine, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Susanne J.H. Vijverberg Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Public Health, Personalized Medicine, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Simone Hashimoto Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Christine Wolff Department of Pediatric Pneumology and Allergy, University Children's Hospital Regensburg (KUNO), Regensburg, Germany
Catarina Almqvist Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
Lizan D. Bloemsma Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Susanne Brandstetter KUNO, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
Paula Corcuera-Elosegui Division of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Hospital Universitario Donostia, San Sebastián, Spain
Mario Gorenjak Center for Human Molecular Genetics and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
Susanne Harner Department of Pediatric Pneumology and Allergy, University Children's Hospital Regensburg (KUNO), Regensburg, Germany
Anna M. Hedman Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
Michael Kabesch Department of Pediatric Pneumology and Allergy, University Children's Hospital Regensburg (KUNO), Regensburg, Germany
Leyre López-Fernández Division of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Hospital Universitario Donostia, San Sebastián, Spain
Aletta D. Kraneveld Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
Anne H. Neerincx Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Maria Pino-Yanes Genomics and Health Group, Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Cell Biology and Genetics, Universidad de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Spain
Uroš Potočnik Center for Human Molecular Genetics and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
Olaia Sardón-Prado Division of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Hospital Universitario Donostia, San Sebastián, Spain Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country, San Sebastián, Spain
Barbara S. Dierdorp Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Tamara Dekker Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Nariman K.A. Metwally Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Jan Willem Duitman Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
René Lutter Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Paul Brinkman Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Public Health, Personalized Medicine, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Mahmoud I. Abdel-Aziz Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Public Health, Personalized Medicine, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Anke H. Maitland-van der Zee Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Amsterdam Public Health, Personalized Medicine, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Collapse

Endogenous Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-2 Levels Are Associated With High-Quality Neat Semen but Unrelated to Sperm Cryoresistance in Bulls

Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) is part of the tissue inhibitors of the metalloproteinases (TIMPs) family. Its primary function is to regulate the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) across various tissues, including those of the reproductive system. This study aimed to quantify the natural levels of TIMP-2 in seminal plasma (SP) and sperm membrane (SM) of bulls, explore potential associations between TIMP-2 levels and semen quality parameters, and examine the relationship between TIMP-2 levels and sperm cryoresistance in bulls. Thirty semen samples from Frieswal breeding bulls were categorized into two groups based on their initial progressive motility (IPM): Good (IPM ≥ 70%; n = 21) and Poor (IPM ≤ 40%; n = 9). The samples were evaluated for their quality parameters at the fresh stage, and TIMP-2 levels were measured in SP and SM using a bovine-specific ELISA kit. Following cryopreservation of Good samples (n = 21), post-thaw motility (PTM) was used to further classify samples into Freezeable (PTM ≥ 50%; n = 14) and Non-Freezable (PTM < 50%; n = 7) groups. In frozen-thawed samples, sperm attributes, kinetics, and functional parameters were assessed, and the results were correlated with retrospective TIMP-2 levels of SP/SM. Our study revealed that the quantified levels of TIMP-2 ranged from 100.27 to 535.95 ng/L in SP and from 0 to 115.78 ng/10 million spermatozoa in SM. TIMP-2 levels in both SP and SM were significantly higher in Good ejaculates compared to Poor ejaculates (p < 0.01). Furthermore, total TIMP-2 levels in the SP/SM of semen samples from bulls showed a positive correlation with fresh semen attributes. However, SP/SM TIMP-2 levels in the Freezeable group did not show any significant differences compared to the Non-Freezable group in post-thaw semen quality attributes, kinetic parameters, and functional tests, except for a significant positive correlation (r = 0.530, p < 0.05) between sperm DNA integrity and SP-TIMP-2 levels. In conclusion, the findings suggested that TIMP-2 can be a positive regulator of semen quality at the neat stage. However, when it comes to the resilience of sperm to cryopreservation, the levels of TIMP-2 do not seem to exert any significant influence in breeding bulls.

The impact of matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors in patients with chronic glaucoma - a literature review

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) play an important role in the pathophysiology of chronic glaucoma, as they are involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in the trabecular meshwork (TM), affecting its ability to efficiently regulate intraocular pressure (IOP). Ensuring the balance between MMPs and TIMPs helps to maintain homeostasis in ocular tissues, which is essential to avoid glaucomatous lesions. Elevated levels of MMPs and increased degradation of the ECM, ultimately affecting aqueous humor outflow and increasing IOP, characterize glaucoma. In the current literature review, the impact and interactions of MMPs and TIMPs in chronic glaucoma have been emphasized, with multiple but still unelucidated roles in the mentioned pathology including their clinical implications, future research directions, and therapeutic approaches. Research to date indicates that the expression of TIMPs is altered in patients with chronic glaucoma, suggesting a compensatory response to increased MMPs activity. Certain drugs can influence the expression levels of MMPs and TIMPs, therefore therapeutic strategies can be developed to restore the balance between tissue enzymes and their inhibitors. Therefore, understanding the relationship between MMPs and TIMPs is a key factor in the pathogenesis of chronic glaucoma. Understanding the interplay between the two provides interesting insights into ECM remodeling in ocular tissues, highlighting the potential of targeted therapies to restore the balance between proteolytic enzymes and their inhibitors.

Zinc Iodide Dimethyl Sulfoxide Reduces Collagen Deposition by Increased Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 Expression and Activity in Lung Fibroblasts

Chronic inflammatory lung diseases are characterized by disease-specific extracellular matrix accumulation resulting from an imbalance of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors. Zinc is essential for the function of MMPs, and zinc deficiency has been associated with enhanced tissue remodeling. This study assessed if zinc iodide (ZnI) supplementation through dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) modifies the action of MMPs in isolated human lung fibroblasts. The expression and activity of two gelatinases, MMP-2 and MMP-9, were determined by gelatin zymography and enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assay (ELISA). Collagen degradation was determined by cell-based ELISAs. Collagen type I and fibronectin deposition was stimulated by human recombinant tumor growth factor β1 (TGF-β1). Untreated fibroblasts secreted MMP-2 but only minute amounts of MMP-9. TGF-β1 (5 ng/mL) reduced MMP-2 secretion, but stimulated collagen type I and fibronectin deposition. All the effects of TGF-β1 were significantly reduced in cells treated with ZnI-DMSO over 24 h, while ZnI and DMSO alone had a lower reducing effect. ZnI-DMSO alone did not increase MMP secretion but enhanced the ratio of active to inactive of MMP-2. ZnI alone had a lower enhancing effect than ZnI-DMSO on MMP activity. Furthermore, MMP-2 activity was increased by ZnI-DMSO and ZnI in the absence of cells. Soluble collagen type I increased in the medium of ZnI-DMSO- and ZnI-treated cells. Blocking MMP activity counteracted all the effects of ZnI-DMSO. Conclusion: The data suggest that the combination of ZnI with DMSO reduces fibrotic processes by increasing the degradation of collagen type I by up-regulating the activity of gelatinases. Thus, the combination of ZnI with DMSO might be considered for treatment of fibrotic disorders of the lung. DMSO supported the beneficial effects of ZnI.

Impact of Interleukin-17 Receptor A Gene Variants on Asthma Susceptibility and Clinical Manifestations in Children and Adolescents

Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in multiple interleukin receptor genes could be associated with asthma risk and/or phenotype. Interleukin-17 (IL-17) has been implicated in tissue inflammation and autoimmune diseases. As no previous studies have uncovered the potential role of IL17 receptor A (RA) gene variants in asthma risk, we aimed to explore the association of four IL17RA SNPs (i.e., rs4819554A/G, rs879577C/T, rs41323645G/A, and rs4819555C/T) with asthma susceptibility/phenotype in our region. TaqMan allelic discrimination analysis was used to genotype 192 individuals. We found that the rs4819554 G/G genotype significantly reduced disease risk in the codominant (OR = 0.15, 95%CI = 0.05-0.45, p < 0.001), dominant (OR = 0.49, 95%CI = 0.26-0.93, p = 0.028), and recessive (OR = 0.18, 95%CI = 0.07-0.52, p < 0.001) models. Similarly, rs879577 showed reduced disease risk associated with the T allele across all genetic models. However, the A allele of rs41323645 was associated with increased disease risk in all models. The G/A and A/A genotypes have higher ORs of 2.47 (95%CI = 1.19-5.14) and 3.86 (95%CI = 1.62-9.18), respectively. Similar trends are observed in the dominant 2.89 (95%CI = 1.47-5.68, p = 0.002) and recessive 2.34 (95%CI = 1.10-4.98, p = 0.025) models. For the rs4819555 variant, although there was no significant association identified under any models, carriers of the rs4819554*A demonstrated an association with a positive family history of asthma (71.4% in carriers vs. 27% in non-carriers; p = 0.025) and the use of relievers for >2 weeks (52.2% of carriers vs. 28.8% of non-carriers; p = 0.047). Meanwhile, the rs4819555*C carriers displayed a significant divergence in the asthma phenotype, specifically atopic asthma (83.3% vs. 61.1%; p = 0.007), showed a higher prevalence of chest tightness (88.9% vs. 61.5%; p = 0.029), and were more likely to report comorbidities (57.7% vs. 16.7%, p = 0.003). The most frequent haplotype in the asthma group was ACAC, with a frequency of 22.87% vs. 1.36% in the controls (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the studied IL17RA variants could be essential in asthma susceptibility and phenotype in children and adolescents.

Characterization of Angiogenic, Matrix Remodeling, and Antimicrobial Factors in Preterm and Full-Term Human Umbilical Cords

BACKGROUND

Little is known about morphogenetic changes in the umbilical cord during the maturation process. Extracellular matrix remodeling, angiogenesis, progenitor activity, and immunomodulation are represented by specific markers; therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP2), CD34, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and human β-defensin 2 (HBD2) in preterm and full-term human umbilical cord tissue.

METHODS

Samples of umbilical cord tissue were obtained from 17 patients and divided into two groups: very preterm and moderate preterm birth umbilical cords; late preterm birth and full-term birth umbilical cords. Routine histology examination was conducted. Marker-positive cells were detected using the immunohistochemistry method. The number of positive structures was counted semi-quantitatively using microscopy. Statistical analysis was carried out using the SPSS Statistics 29 program.

RESULTS

Extraembryonic mesenchyme cells are the most active cell producers, expressing MMP2, TIMP2, VEGF, and HBD2 at notable levels in preterm and full-term umbilical cord tissue. Statistically significant differences in the expression of CD34, MMP2, and TIMP2 between the two patient groups were found. The expression of VEGF was similar in both patient groups, with the highest number of VEGF-positive cells seen in the extraembryonic mesenchyme. The expression of HBD2 was the highest in the extraembryonic mesenchyme and the amniotic epithelium, where mostly moderate numbers of HBD2-positive cells were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Extracellular matrix remodeling in preterm and term umbilical cords is strongly regulated, and tissue factors MMP2 and TIMP2 take part in this process. The expression of VEGF is not affected by the umbilical cord's age; however, individual patient factors can affect the production of VEGF. Numerous CD34-positive cells in the endothelium of the umbilical arteries suggest a significant role of progenitor cells in very preterm and moderate preterm birth umbilical cords. Antimicrobial activity provided by HBD2 is essential and constant in preterm and full-term umbilical cords.

The TIMP protein family: diverse roles in pathophysiology

The tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are a family of four matrisome proteins classically defined by their roles as the primary endogenous inhibitors of metalloproteinases (MPs). Their functions however are not limited to MP inhibition, with each family member harboring numerous MP-independent biological functions that play key roles in processes such as inflammation and apoptosis. Because of these multifaceted functions, TIMPs have been cited in diverse pathophysiological contexts. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of the MP-dependent and -independent roles of TIMPs across a range of pathological conditions. The potential therapeutic and biomarker applications of TIMPs in these disease contexts are also considered, highlighting the biomedical promise of this complex and often misunderstood protein family.

The role of inflammatory mediators and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the progression of osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic musculoskeletal disorder characterized by an imbalance between (synthesis) and catabolism (degradation) in altered homeostasis of articular cartilage mediated primarily by the innate immune system. OA degenerates the joints resulting in synovial hyperplasia, degradation of articular cartilage with damage of the structural and functional integrity of the cartilage extracellular matrix, subchondral sclerosis, osteophyte formation, and is characterized by chronic pain, stiffness, and loss of function. Inflammation triggered by factors like biomechanical stress is involved in the development of osteoarthritis. In OA apart from catabolic effects, anti-inflammatory anabolic processes also occur continually. There is also an underlying chronic inflammation present, not only in cartilage tissue but also within the synovium, which perpetuates tissue destruction of the OA joint. The consideration of inflammation in OA considers synovitis and/or other cellular and molecular events in the synovium during the progression of OA. In this review, we have presented the progression of joint degradation that results in OA. The critical role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of OA is discussed in detail along with the dysregulation within the cytokine networks composed of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines that drive catabolic pathways, inhibit matrix synthesis, and promote cellular apoptosis. OA pathogenesis, fluctuation of synovitis, and its clinical impact on disease progression are presented here along with the role of synovial macrophages in promoting inflammatory and destructive responses in OA. The role of interplay between different cytokines, structure, and function of their receptors in the inter-cellular signaling pathway is further explored. The effect of cytokines in the increased synthesis and release of matrix-decomposing proteolytic enzymes, such as matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) and a disintegrin-like and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motif (ADAMTS), is elaborated emphasizing the potential impact of MMPs on the chondrocytes, synovial cells, articular and periarticular tissues, and other immune system cells migrating to the site of inflammation. We also shed light on the pathogenesis of OA via oxidative damage particularly due to nitric oxide (NO) via its angiogenic response to inflammation. We concluded by presenting the current knowledge about the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Synthetic MMP inhibitors include zinc binding group (ZBG), non-ZBG, and mechanism-based inhibitors, all of which have the potential to be therapeutically beneficial in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Improving our understanding of the signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms that regulate the MMP gene expression, may open up new avenues for the creation of therapies that can stop the joint damage associated with OA.

Genome-wide screens identify SEL1L as an intracellular rheostat controlling collagen turnover

Accumulating evidence has implicated impaired extracellular matrix (ECM) clearance as a key factor in fibrotic disease. Despite decades of research elucidating the effectors of ECM clearance, relatively little is understood regarding the upstream regulation of this process. Collagen is the most abundant constituent of normal and fibrotic ECM in mammalian tissues. Its catabolism occurs through extracellular proteolysis and cell-mediated uptake of collagen fragments for intracellular degradation. Given the paucity of information regarding the regulation of this latter process, here we execute unbiased genome-wide screens to understand the molecular underpinnings of cell-mediated collagen clearance. Using this approach, we discover a mechanism through which collagen biosynthesis is sensed by cells internally and directly regulates clearance of extracellular collagen. The sensing mechanism appears to be dependent on endoplasmic reticulum-resident protein SEL1L and occurs via a noncanonical function of this protein. This pathway functions as a homeostatic negative feedback loop that limits collagen accumulation in tissues. In human fibrotic lung disease, the induction of this collagen clearance pathway by collagen synthesis is impaired, thereby contributing to the pathological accumulation of collagen in lung tissue. Thus, we describe cell-autonomous, rheostatic collagen clearance as an important pathway of tissue homeostasis.

Acellular Human Amniotic Fluid-Derived Extracellular Vesicles as Novel Anti-Inflammatory Therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2 Infection

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 is associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and fatal pneumonia. Excessive inflammation caused by SARS-CoV-2 is the key driver of ARDS and lethal disease. Several FDA-approved drugs that suppress virus replication are in clinical use. However, despite strong evidence for the role of virus-induced inflammation in severe COVID-19, no effective anti-inflammatory drug is available to control fatal inflammation as well as efficiently clear the virus. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify biologically derived immunomodulators that suppress inflammation and promote antiviral immunity. In this study, we evaluated acellular human amniotic fluid (acAF) containing extracellular vesicles (hAF-EVs) as a potential non-toxic and safe biologic for immunomodulation during COVID-19. Our in vitro results showed that acAF significantly reduced inflammatory cytokine production in TLR2/4/7 and SARS-CoV-2 structural protein-stimulated mouse macrophages. Importantly, an intraperitoneal administration of acAF reduced morbidity and mortality in SARS-CoV-2-infected mice. A detailed examination of SARS-CoV-2-infected lungs revealed that the increased protection in acAF-treated mice was associated with reduced viral titers and levels of inflammatory myeloid cell infiltration. Collectively, our results identify a novel biologic that has potential to suppress excessive inflammation and enhance survival following SARS-CoV-2 infection, highlighting the translational potential of acAF against COVID-19.