Matrix Metalloproteinases-9 (MMPs-9)‎ and -12 Are Upregulated in the Airways of Mice with Chronic Airway Inflammation and Remodeling

Abstract EN

In the present study, we tried to develop a mouse model of chronic airway inflammation and remodeling induced by chronic exposure to antigen.

Furthermore, the expressions of MMPs-9 and -12 were also investigated.

BALB/c mice were sensitized and then repeatedly challenged with OVA every 3 days for 54 days.

At the following day after the last challenge, of days 24, 39, and 54, histological changes of the airways were studied by hematoxylin-eosin and Masson's trichrome stains.

The expressions of MMPs-9 and -12 were also measured by western blot.

Persistent inflammatory cells infiltration and collagen deposition in the lung tissue were observed in repeatedly challenged mice.

Furthermore, the expressions of MMPs-9 and -12 were increased in the airways after repeated antigen challenges.

The severest inflammation was observed in the day-54 challenged group.

These results suggest that MMPs-9 and -12 might be involved in the pathogenesis of chronic airway inflammation and remodeling induced by antigen exposure in mice.