The effect and the significance of the matrix metalloproteinases in the pathological changes of the rat experimental allergic encephalomyelitis / 中国免疫学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective:To investigate pathological changes and the expression of the matrix metalloproteinases in rat EAE.Methods:The pathological changes of EAE were studied in Wistar rat with the aid of light and electron microscope and the expression and distribution of MMP-2,MMP-9 in different tissues were detected with the method of immunohistochemistry.Results:Light microscopy showed inflammatory cuff around small blood vessels were evident, disintegration and disappear of myelin sheath were observed. Electron microscopy showed a lot of loose and fragmental spiremes of myelin sheath, the component of axons and nissl bodies in neurons were disappeared. MMP-2,-9 were expressed intensively in vascular endothelial cells, meninges and accumulative inflammatory cells.Conclusion:MMPs take the roles in every aspect of the pathological changes in EAE, it can destroy the blood brain-barrier, degrade the myeline sheath, damage the axons and generate immunogens.