Matrix metalloproteinases expression in choroidal neovascular membranes

• Published in: Yanke xuebao Vol. 20; no. 3; p. 191
• Main Authors: Zeng, Jun, Jiang, Deyong, Liu, Xiangping, Zhu, Xiaohua, Tang, Luosheng
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: China 01-09-2004
• Subjects: Aged; Bruch Membrane - enzymology; Choroidal Neovascularization - enzymology; Choroidal Neovascularization - etiology; Choroidal Neovascularization - surgery; Female; Humans; Macular Degeneration - complications; Male; Matrix Metalloproteinase 2 - metabolism; Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 - metabolism; Middle Aged; Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases - metabolism; Vitrectomy
• ISSN: 1000-4432

To investigate the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in choroidal neovascular membranes with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Seventeen choroidal neovascular membranes surgically removed from AMD patients with pars plana vitrectomy and subretinal membranes peeling were investigated. The expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was determined with immunohistochemical technique.
Immunohistochemistry staining in choroidal neovascular membranes for MMP-2 and MMP-9 was observed in 17 specimens. There was no detective of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in normal retinas.
MMP-2 and MMP-9 were found in choroidal neovascular membranes, may degrade the Bruch membrane and be associated with the perforation of new vessels into Bruch membrane, involving a basic pathogenic process of AMD.