Expression of matrix metalloproteinase-7 in choroidal neovascular membranes in age-related macular degeneration

PURPOSE: Matrix metalloproteinases are a family of extracellular matrix-degrading enzymes associated with neovascularization, We evaluated the expression and localization of matrix metalloproteinase-7 in choroidal neovascular membranes in age-related macular degeneration. METHODS: Immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopic examinations were performed on subfoveal neovascular membranes that had been surgically removed from seven eyes of seven patients with age-related macular degeneration. RESULTS: Matrix metalloproteinase-7 was expressed in all. specimens and distinctly expressed in the thickened layer of Bruch membrane and basement: membrane-like structure around retinal pigment epithelial cells. CONCLUSIONS: Matrix metalloproteinase-7 was expressed in Bruch membrane of choroidal neovascular membranes in age-related macular degeneration. Matrix metalloproteinase-7 may be an important factor for the development of the submacular neovascular membrane in age-related macular degeneration, (Am J Ophthalmol 1999;128: 382-384. (C) 1999 by Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.).