Levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in tear fluid of mustard gas exposed patients with chronic dry-eye symptoms.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to compare the levels of MMP-1, 2, 8, 9 in tear fluids of people exposed to mustard gas in the war between Iraq and Iran who had the chronic dry-eye symptoms compared to the normal group. In this study, 25 of the patients who were exposed to mustard gas and had chronic dry eye symptoms were compared to 25 patients as control group; consisting of 25 people who had common chronic dry eye symptoms with blepharitis and 25 healthy people as normal group. The level of MMP-1, 2, 8, 9 in tear fluid of people of these three groups was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results for levels of MMP-1 (P=0.8) and MMP-2 (P=0.54) in tear fluid of patients in comparison with normal group do not indicate any significant difference. On the other hand, the calculated levels for MMP-8 (P=0.002) and MMP-9 (P=0.01) in tear fluid of patients in comparison with normal group shows a significant increase. The differences were considered statistically significant at p< 0.05. The effects of exposure to mustard gas on eyes of chemical-injured veterans destroy meibomian glands which paves the way for evaporative dry-eye. As a result, MMPs in tear fluid of these patients increase which eventually elevates the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) levels in tear fluid and results in later eye-impairments.

Unveiling the Power of Gabapentin-Loaded Nanoceria with Multiple Therapeutic Capabilities for the Treatment of Dry Eye Disease

“…DE disease is characterized by the production of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, as well as damage to matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) at the ocular surface . Additionally, high levels of MMP-9 (∼2.0 μg mL –1 ) have been reported in the tears of patients with DE, and this level increases with the severity of the disease . Therefore, MMP-9 is used as a biomarker for DED .…”

“…62 Additionally, high levels of MMP-9 (∼2.0 μg mL −1 ) have been reported in the tears of patients with DE, and this level increases with the severity of the disease. 63 Therefore, MMP-9 is used as a biomarker for DED. 62 The in vitro degradation of Ce-TG and the glutaraldehyde cross-linked structures was studied in artificial tear solution (ATS) at 32 °C.…”