Macular Degeneration

Investigators at Kings College target macular degeneration

"[MATERIALSXXXMETHODS] This study determined the plasma matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) levels in three groups of subjects: group 1 included subjects with age-related maculopathy (ARM), group 2 included subjects with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) owing to AMD and group 3 consisted of age-matched controls. [RESULTS] The mean plasma levels of MMP-2 were not significantly different in the three groups. In contrast, the mean plasma MMP-9 levels were significantly higher in ARM and CNV groups compared to that of the control group. However, there was no significant difference in MMP-9 levels between ARM and CNV groups. [CONCLUSION] This is the first study that reveals a link between raised plasma MMP-9 levels with AMD," wrote K.Y. Chau and colleagues, Kings College.

The researchers concluded: "Further studies are required to identify the factors that contribute to this association.'."

Chau and colleagues published their study in Eye (Plasma levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and-9 (MMP-2 and MMP-9) in age-related macular degeneration. Eye, 2007;21(12):1511-1515).

Additional information can be obtained by contacting N.V. Chong, King's College Hospital, Laser & Retinal Research Unit, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, UK.

The publisher of the journal Eye can be contacted at: Nature Publishing Group, Macmillan Building, 4 Crinan St., London N1 9XW, England.

Keywords: United Kingdom, London, Age Related Maculopathy, Age-Related Macular Degeneration, Age-related Maculopathy, Angiogenesis, Atherosclerosis, Choroidal Neovascularization, Enzyme Research, Macular Degeneration, Matrix Metalloproteinase, Metalloproteinases, Proteins, Proteomics, Kings College.

This article was prepared by Pain & Central Nervous System Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, Pain & Central Nervous System Week via NewsRx.com.