Collagenase (MMP-1), stromelysin (MMP-3), and gelatinase (MMP-9) are three zinc-dependent metalloproteinases (MMPs) involved in joint destruction, and are particularly important in the pathogenesis of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Ajulemic acid (Aa) and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) are compounds that have shown therapeutic effects against RA, and which may reduce the production of the three MMPs. To verify this, Aa and GLA were added to cell cultures at different concentrations and then MMP expression was analyzed using ELISAs and northern blots. The results indicate that at a concentration 5 [mu]mol/ml Aa completely abolishes the enzymatic activity of MMP-9.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Devlin, Timothy Edward

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 99B024M

Advisor

• Adams, David S.

Year

• 1999

Sponsor

• University of Massachusetts Medical Center

Date created

• 1999-01-01

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology

Rights statement

• In Copyright