Systemic Matrix Metalloproteinases 2 and 9 in Age Related Macular Degeneration

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: To determine whether blood levels of MMP–2 and MMP–9 are altered in Age Related Maculopathy (ARM) and choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Methods: Patients with ARM, CNV and age–matched normal controls, ranging from 57 to 95 years old, with no previous ocular or systemic diseases were voluntarily recruited and their fundi examined by masked retinal specialists. Fresh blood plasma samples were analysed for total MMP–2 and MMP–9 levels using a standard ELISA immunoassay method. Results: The mean plasma levels of MMP–2 in control (546.167 ng/ml), ARM (508.858 ng/ml) and CNV patients (518.176 ng/ml) were not significantly different (p=0.9293). Average MMP–9 levels were significantly (p=0.0234) higher in ARM (748.608 ng/ml) and CNV (792.1176 ng/ml) compared to that of control patients (258.167 ng/ml). Conclusions: The elevated blood levels of MMP–9 in ARM and AMD patients may serve as an indicator for early detection of Age related macular degeneration.

Keywords: age-related macular degeneration • pathology: human • clinical laboratory testing