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Matrix metalloproteinases-10 levels predict clinical course of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Matrix metalloproteinases-10 levels appear associated with the clinical course of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, according to study results published in Respiratory Research.

“Matrix metalloproteinases-10 [MMP-10] is a novel biomarker for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis [IPF], correlates with disease severity and predicts disease progression,” Akihiko Sokai, of the department of respiratory medicine at Kyoto University in Japan, and colleagues wrote. “Additional studies are necessary to elucidate the functional role of MMP-10 and other MMPs in the pathogenesis of IPF.”

Sokai and colleagues evaluated 57 patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Researchers analyzed serum MMP to determine disease severity and prognosis.

In 19 patients, researchers evaluated bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of MMP-7 and MMP-10 levels to find a relationship between markers and serum values, and they performed immunohistochemical staining of MMP-10 in the lung tissue of IPF patients.

Sokai and colleagues found a significant correlation between MMP-7 and MMP-10 levels and forced vital capacity percentage and diffusing capacity for the lung for carbon monoxide.

Researchers noted a significant correlation between the levels of MMP-7 and MMP-10 and serum concentrations. They found MMP-10 was associated with overall survival as well as clinical deterioration over 6 months.

Sokai and colleagues also found MMP-10 expression was localized to the peripheral bronchiolar epithelial cells, macrophages and alveolar epithelial cells. – by Jeff Craven

Disclosure: The researchers report employment with the Department of Respiratory Care and Sleep Control Medicine, which is funded by endowments from Philips-Respironics, Teijin Pharma, Fukuda Denshi and Fukuda Lifetec Keigji to Kyoto University.