Expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and -2 in pediatric chronic otitis media with effusion

SummaryObjectiveTo evaluate the role of MMP-9 and MMP-2 in pediatric patients with middle ear effusion (MEE) and determine the pathogenesis of otitis media with effusion (OME) and allergy.MethodsThe MEE samples were collected from 25 patients with allergy and 20 patients without allergy as a control. The levels of MMP-9 and MMP-2 were measured using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The activity of MMP-9 and MMP-2 were measured by gelatin-zymography. The Mann–Whitney U-test was used for comparisons between the allergy positive and control groups.ResultsThe level of MMP-9 was significantly elevated in MEE from the allergy positive group compared to controls. The amount of MMP-9 activity significantly increased in the allergy positive group compared to controls.ConclusionMMP-9 and MMP-2 are mediatros of inflammation in the OME; in addition, MMP-9 may play a significant role in the pathophysiology of OME with allergy.