Relationship of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and ripening of pregnant cervix
- VernacularTitle:基质金属蛋白酶-9与宫颈成熟关系的研究
- Author:
Jianxin GUO
;
Zhuqin CHEN
;
Li LI
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- From:Journal of Third Military Medical University
2001;23(2):233-234
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Objective To investigate whether matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) was synthesized in pregnant cervix during parturition and its source and distribution. Methods Cervical species (n=10, each weighing about 0.3 g) were taken from pregnant women immediately after delivery. Other cervical species (n=7) were served as negative control from those non-pregnant women but undergoing uterotomy due to other benign diseases. Immunohistochemical method (ABC) was carried out to detect the expression of MMP-9, with a monoclonal antibody against MMP-9. Results Positive staining of MMP-9 was found in the cytoplasm of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) that had infiltrated into cervix or located in blood vessels of cervix. Scattered light positive staining were found in some interstitial cells of the cervix. No other cells including fibrocytes and lymphocytes were positive to MMP-9. No positive staining was found in control tissues. Conclusion There are strong expressions of MMP-9 in pregnant cervix in term labor, derived mainly from infiltrated PMN. MMP-9 may be an important regulator in the process of cervical ripening.
