MMP-13 and TIMP-3 mRNA expression in periodontitis-affected gingival tissue

Objectives: Balances between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are important to control extracellular matrix remodelling and destruction in periodontal diseases. In this study, we evaluated MMP (MMP-1, -3, -9, -13) and TIMP (TIMP-1, -2, -3) mRNA levels semiquantitatively, and the localisation of MMP-3, MMP-13 and TIMP-3 in inflamed gingival tissue. Methods: We used realtime RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Results: The mRNA levels for MMP-1, -3, -9, -13, TIMP-1 and TIMP-3 were significantly higher in periodontitis-affected gingival tissues. TIMP-2 mRNA did not show any differences between healthy and diseased gingivae. We detected not only the mRNA signals for MMP-3 and TIMP-3, but also the protein expressions in gingival tissues, which was localised in monocytes/macrophages, fibroblasts and endothelial cells, increased by intensive cell infiltration. MMP-13 was weakly stained in gingival epithelial cells and some macrophages. Conclusions: We conclude that MMP-3, MMP-13 and TIMP-3 play considerable roles in corporate with other MMPs and TIMPs during pathogenesis and remodelling in periodontitis.