Matrix metalloproteinase 9 regulates cell death following pilocarpine-induced seizures in the developing brain.

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are involved in tissue repair, cell death and morphogenesis. We investigated the role of the gelatinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the pathogenesis of neuronal death induced by prolonged seizures in the developing brain. Seven-day-old rats, MMP-9 knockout mice and transgenic rats overexpressing MMP-9 received intraperitoneal injections of pilocarpine, 250 mg/kg, to induce seizures.

Matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 fail to influence drug-induced neuroapoptosis in developing rat brain.

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play an essential role in tissue repair, cell death, and morphogenesis. The aim of the present study was to investigate potential involvement of selected MMPs in the pathogenesis of neuronal apoptosis induced by the NMDA antagonist MK-801 (dizocilpine) or the GABA(A) agonist phenobarbital in infant rats, transgenic rats overexpressing MMP-9 and MMP-9 knockout mice. Seven-day-old rats or knockout mice received intraperitoneal injections of MK-801, 1 mg/kg, or phenobarbital, 50 mg/kg.