RESUMEN
Background: matrix metalloproteinase-9 [MMP-9] was involved in inflammation and immune system dysfunctions. Beside immunologic abnormalities, systemic lupus erythematosus [SLE] also presents chronic inflammatory components. Therefore, a role of MMP-9 in SLE pathology might be supposed
Objective: to investigate the level of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in systemic lupus erythematosus patients and to determine its value in monitoring disease activity
Patients and methods: twenty five SLE female patients were included in this study. Ten healthy females where selected as controls. The activity of SLE was evaluated according to SLAM scoring. Using quantitative ELISA Kit provided from R and D system INC. USA, to quantitate the total levels of MMP-9. These levels were then compared and correlated with the ANA, anti-ds-DNA, lupus nephritis, Raynaud phenomenon, malar rash, photosensitivity, alopecia, and mucosal ulcers
Results: serum of MMP-9 were found to be significantly higher [P<0.01], in SLE patients compared to the control group. Serum MMP-9 showed statistical significant correlation with anti ds DNA, Lupus nephritis, Raynaud phenomenon, malar rash and photosensitivity and it did not show any statistical significant correlation with ANA, alopecia and mucosal ulcers
Conclusion : the data suggested that MMP-9 could be involved in the pathogenesis of SLE, and serum MMP-9 can be used as marker to monitor disease activity, renal damage, disease progression and amelioration in SLE
RESUMEN
Leptin plays a promoting role in angiogenesis and the vascular endothelium express the long form of leptin receptor, therefore, the aim of the work was to assess the plasma level of leptin in hypertensive patients and to evaluate the relationship between its concentration and hypertension. and hypertensive retinopathy, also to assess its relation to body mass index. This study was carried out on 50 patients with essential hypertension and 25 normal healthy, age and sex matched control subjects. Patients with essential hypertension were classified into 2 groups according to the presence or absence of retinopathy, 25 patients without hypertensive retinopathy [Group II a] and 25 patients with hypertensive retinopathy [Group II b]. The study showed significantly very higher serum leptin in group II and its subgroups [II a and II b] compared to those of the control [Group I], despite no significant difference was detected between the three groups [group I ,II a and II b] regarding age, sex and body mass index. Also no significant deference was detected between hypertensive group without retinopathy and hypertensive retinopathy group as regard mean blood pressure. Positive correlation between serum leptin level and mean blood pressure among all groups was found. Also positive correlation between serum leptin level and body mass index [BMI] among all groups