Salivary matrix metalloproteinases activity levels in autoimmune diseases

What is it about?

Introduction: It is widely recognized that saliva represents a solid alternative as a diagnostic fluid in a wide range of oral and general diseases. Autoimmune diseases constitute an important health threat to both men and women worldwide with matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) playing significant roles in pathogenesis and development of these diseases. The specific aim of the present study is to asses, for the first time, salivary levels of a selected panel of MMPs in several autoimmune diseases. Methodology: The study included 30 patients divided into groups such as: systemic sclerosis, vasculitis and healthy subjects. Salivary levels of MMP-1, -2, -7, -9 and -10 were analyzed using magnetic bead-based multiplex assays and Luminex technology. Results: MMP-2 salivary levels were statistically elevated in systemic sclerosis, while MMP-10 were also increased in vasculitis patients. Salivary levels of MMP-9 were found significantly increased in all analyzed groups. Conclusion: Taken together, our results promote saliva as a reliable diagnostic fluid for quantifying MMPs in autoimmune diseases. Keywords: saliva, autoimmune diseases, matrixmetalloproteinase, vasculitis, systemic sclerosis.

Featured Image