| Summary: | Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a critical role in the blood–brain barrier permeability and in invasion of the leukocytes into the central nervous system during multiple sclerosis (MS). In this respect, in the present study, we have evaluated the possible role of MMP-9 and MMP-2 on the expression of soluble CD154 (sCD154) and membrane-bound isoform of the CD154 in Iranian MS patients. The expressions of the aforementioned protein-related genes were analyzed at the levels of messenger RNA and proteins by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and Western blotting. The results showed a high expression of CD154 isoforms, MMP-9 and MMP-2, in MS patients in contrast to controls (p < 0.001). We found an increase in sCD154 concentration (i.e., >3-fold) in patients with a higher MMPs/tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) ratio. Furthermore, secondary-progressive MS patients with exacerbate period showed higher positive correlation between increasing sCD154 concentration and overexpression of MMP-2 (p < 0.001). Our data demonstrate that following the exacerbation period, sCD154 concentration is increased in patients, which is mutually related to the MMPs/TIMP-1 ratio. This relationship may represent a new link between sCD154 concentration and the MMPs/TIMP-1 ratio with prognostic implications.
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