Inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase-9 by a barbiturate-nitrate hybrid ameliorates dextran sulphate sodium-induced colitis: effect on inflammation-related genes.

Background and Purpose Matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) is up‐regulated in ulcerative colitis and implicated in the pathology of the disease. In this study, we have examined the effects of a barbiturate‐based MMP inhibitor incorporating a nitric oxide donor/mimetic group (dinitrate‐barbiturate) on the intestinal injury induced by dextran sulphate sodium (DSS).