Investigation of MMP-1, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 levels in Lichen Planus

Objectives: Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory mucocutaneous condition of unknown etiology. . Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of proteolytic enzymes that mediate the degredation of extracellular matrix macromolecules. Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) form bimolecular complexes with the active form of MMPs and regulate matrix degradation by blockage of autolytic MMP activation. The purpose of this study was to investigate MMP-1, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples of Turkish patients with LP and to determine whether these enzymes are involved in the pathogenesis of LP.

Methods: In this study, twenty-seven patients with LP (18 periodontitis; LPP, 9 gingivitis; LPG) and 30 healthy individuals (15 gingivitis; HG, 15 periodontitis; HP) were included. The diagnosis of LP patients was confirmed clinically and histologically. The patients had received no specific treatment and periodontal management in previous six months. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of either age or sex. GCF levels of MMP-1, TIMP-1 and MMP-9 were determined by ELISA and statistical analysis was performed for comparison.

Results: The mean levels of total amounts of MMP-1 and MMP-9 in LPP patients were significantly higher than HP group (p<0.05). Similarly, increased MMP-1 and MMP-9 levels were noted in LPG patients compared with HG patients (p<0.05). Mean level of total amounts of TIMP-1 was significantly lower in LP patients when compared to HP group (p<0.05). Decreased total TIMP-1 level was determined in LPG patients when compared to HG (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The results of this study suggested that MMP-1, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 may be involved in the pathogenesis of LP. Increased MMP-1 and MMP-9 and decreased TIMP-1 levels in LP patients may cause basal membrane disruption and facilitate matrix degradation in periodontal tissues (This study was supported by Selcuk University Research Foundation and TUBITAK).