The Effect of Adiponectin on Matrix Metalloproteinase-۹ (MMP-۹) in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Background & Aims: Atherosclerosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Adiponectin reducesthe risk of heart disease, and matrix metalloproteinase-۹ (MMP-۹) is involved in the formation and development of atherosclerotic plaque. The aim of this study was the investigation of the effect of adiponectin on MMP-۹ gene expression. It seems this hormone can reduce the risk of atherosclerosis by MMP-۹ gene expression reduction. Methods: Human aorta smooth muscle cells were cultured in F۱۲K media in appropriate environment and conditions, then, the cells were treated with ۵ µg/ml adiponectin. After ۲۴ and ۴۸ hour, total RNA was extracted and corresponding cDNA was made. After drawing standard curve and determining the efficiency of the reaction, MMP-۹ gene expression was measured by the SYBR Green kit and real time PCR method. Glyceraldehyde ۳-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) gene was the reference gene. The amount of MMP-۹ protein, compared to the β-actin protein as reference protein, was estimated with Western blot method. Results: adiponectin did not cause a ch ange in gene expression of MMP-۹ in ۲۴ hours, but in ۴۸ hours reduced gene expression (-۱.۱, and -۵.۵, respectively). As a result of MMP-۹ gene expression reduction, protein also reduced after ۴۸ hours compared to β-actin protein. Conclusion: Through the reduction of MMP-۹ protein and gene expression, adiponectin changes extra cellular matrix which may reduce the risk and complications of atherosclerosis

Keywords:

Atherosclerosis , Adiponectin , Matrix metalloproteinase-۹ , Vascularsmooth muscle cells