Effect of matrix metalloproteinase on autolysis of sea cucumber Stichopus japonicus

To investigate the relationship between matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) and autolysis of sea cucumber Stichopus japonicus, the dermis homogenate was incubated at 25°C to induce autolysis. EDTA Na2 and 1,10-phenanthroline were used to verify the effect of MMPs on autolysis, which was measured by soluble protein and protein pattern. Soluble protein level increased during a 6-h autolysis process. SDS-PAGE demonstrated obvious protein degradation with the concomitant occurrence of degradation products. The above two indicators could be inhibited significantly by EDTA Na2 and 1,10-phenanthroline, indicating that MMPs might play a significant role in autolysis of sea cucumber.