Date on Master's Thesis/Doctoral Dissertation

8-2014

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

M.S.

Department

Oral Health and Rehabilitation

Committee Chair

Scott, David Albert

Committee Co-Chair (if applicable)

Wang, Huizhi

Committee Member

Wang, Huizhi

Committee Member

Potempa, Jan

Subject

Cellular immunity; Metalloproteinases

Abstract

Background: Matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) are proteins that have a unique role in immunity, tissue remodeling, and tumorigenesis. MMPs can break down extracellular components, release bioactive molecules, and act on pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines and other proteins to regulate varied aspects of inflammation and immunity. Nicotine (3-(1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinyl) pyridine), a key toxic component of tobacco, is thought to dysregulate matrix metalloproteinase secretion in immune cells. Aim: Examine the effect of nicotine on MMP9 secretion and activity in primary monocytes. Methods: Primary monocytes were stimulated with LPS (1 µg/ml) and Nicotine (100 ng/ml) and MMP9 secretion were studied. Gel zymography and ELISA techniques were used to study the secretion of MMP9 due to nicotine. Furthermore siRNA techniques were used to understand the role of the a7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (a7nAChR) characterize the MMP production. Conclusion: Nicotine decreased the MMP9 activity and secretion in primary monocytes. The a7nAChR receptor has an important role in the secretion and activity of MMP9 production in primary monocytes.

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