PIM2 induced MMP-9 expression in macrophages requires PI3K and Notch1 signaling.

Granuloma formation during Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection represents pathological attributes of the host immunity to infection and is required for the containment of infection. Granuloma formation is a complex process involving initiation and development of organized multicellular structures comprised of components of extracellular matrix [1]. Activation of inflammatory immune responses during granuloma formation upon infection with mycobacteria is often associated with tissue remodeling and breakdown of the extracellular matrix. In these complex processes, Cyclooxygenase-2 plays a major role in chronic inflammation and regulates matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression significantly in tissue remodeling but the molecular mechanisms involved remain elusive.