Difference in expression of collagen type I and matrix metalloproteinase-1 in uterosacral ligaments of women with and without pelvic organ prolapse

ObjectiveTo compare the expression of collagen type I and matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) in uterosacral ligament biopsies from women with and without pelvic organ prolapse (POP).Study designUterosacral ligament biopsies were obtained from women with POP (n = 46) and control subjects (n = 49). Immunohistochemistry for collagen type I and MMP-1 was performed on formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded sections. The two groups were matched for age, body mass index, parity and postmenopausal status. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Version 13.0 was used for statistical analysis.ResultsThe expression of collagen type I (p = 0.034) and MMP-1 (p = 0.038) differed between women with POP and control subjects. There was increased expression of MMP-1 and decreased expression of collagen type 1 in uterosacral ligaments of women with POP compared with control subjects.ConclusionsThis difference indicates a possible relationship between POP and the immunohistochemical expression of collagen type I and MMP-1 in uterosacral ligaments.