Expression of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha and Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 in Surgically Induced Necrotizing Scleritis

Publisher： Karger

E-ISSN： 1423-0259|38|2|66-70

ISSN： 0030-3747

Source： Ophthalmic Research, Vol.38, Iss.2, 2006-03, pp. : 66-70

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Abstract

Background: Surgically induced necrotizing scleritis is primarily managed with immunosuppressive regimens. Such treatments can alter inflammatory cytokines and products such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), which are an important proinflammatory cytokine and a tissue-degrading protease involved in necrosis of some ocular tissues. Object: To evaluate TNF-α and MMP-9 in the tear or sclera of surgically induced necrotizing scleritis. Methods: After tear collection from healthy and diseased eyes of 2 patients, immunoblot analysis using monoclonal antibody specific for human TNF-α and MMP-9 was performed. In another patient, scleral tissues were obtained during scleral allograft surgery, and the same immunoblot analysis was done. Results: The level of TNF-α and MMP-9 was increased in tear fluid from patients compared to that of control volunteers and returned to the control level after treatment. The diseased sclera showed an increased expression of MMP-9 compared to that of the normal donor sclera. Conclusions: TNF-α and MMP-9 may suggest disease activity of surgically induced necrotizing scleritis and can be altered by proper immunosuppressive treatment.