Pericytes Release MMP-9 in Response to TNF-α
Author Information
Author(s): Takata Fuyuko, Dohgu Shinya, Matsumoto Junichi, Takahashi Hiroyuki, Machida Takashi, Wakigawa Tomoya, Harada Eriko, Miyaji Haruki, Koga Mitsuhisa, Nishioku Tsuyoshi, Yamauchi Atsushi, Kataoka Yasufumi
Primary Institution: Fukuoka University
Hypothesis
Do pericytes release MMP-9 and migrate in response to inflammatory mediators?
Conclusion
Pericytes are the primary source of MMP-9 at the blood-brain barrier and their migration is enhanced by TNF-α.
Supporting Evidence
- TNF-α significantly increased MMP-9 release from pericytes compared to other cell types.
- Pericytes showed a higher level of MMP-9 release than BMECs and astrocytes.
- Migration of pericytes was significantly enhanced by TNF-α treatment.
Takeaway
Pericytes, which are cells near blood vessels in the brain, react strongly to a signal called TNF-α by releasing a protein that helps them move, which might be important when the brain is injured.
Methodology
Primary cultures of rat brain pericytes, endothelial cells, and astrocytes were treated with TNF-α, and MMP-9 levels were measured using zymography and western blot.
Limitations
The study was conducted in vitro, which may not fully represent in vivo conditions.
Participant Demographics
Rat brain cells were used for the experiments.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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