Matrix metalloproteinase expression in cultured human gastric wall fibroblasts – interactions with Helicobacter pylori isolated from patients with ulcers

Summary Background: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), enzymes capable of degrading collagens and other extracellular matrix components, have been implicated in gastric ulcer formation. However, the effect on MMP expression of Helicobacter pylori, also implicated in these lesions, has not been studied to our knowledge. Aim: To seek links between H. pylori and MMP expression likely to affect gastric ulcer formation. After fibroblasts from human gastric wall were cocultured with H. pylori, concentrations of MMP-1 and -2 in the medium were determined by enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assays. Results: Whereas MMP-1 was not detected in media from fibroblasts or H. pylori culture alone, MMP-1 was detected in cocultures (P < 0.01). Similar amounts of MMP-2 were detected in medium from fibroblasts cultured alone and with H. pylori. No MMP-2 production by H. pylori cultured alone was detected. Conclusions: MMP-1 appears to be important in gastric ulcer pathogenesis, and MMP-1 induction by H. pylori may impede gastric ulcer healing.