Differential regulation of stromelysin-1 (matrix metalloproteinase-3) and matrilysin (matrix metalloproteinase-7) in baboon endometrium

OBJECTIVE: To investigate in vivo expression of matrix metalloproteinase enzymes (MMP), MMP-3 and MMP-7, by the baboon endometrium in relation to the process of tissue remodeling that accompanies menstruation in the primate. METHODS: Endometrial tissues and uterine fluids obtained from reproductively intact cycling baboons, cycling baboons treated with an anti-progestin, and ovariectomized steroid-treated baboons were evaluated for MMP mRNA expression and protein production by using multiple analytic techniques. RESULTS: The pattern of MMP protein production matched the pattern of MMP mRNA expression. In intact cycling baboons, MMP mRNA expression and protein production were specific to cell type and stage of the menstrual cycle. Endometrial stroma expressed minimal amounts of MMP-3 during the proliferative and secretory stages, whereas endometrial epithelia expressed MMP-7 during the proliferative stage. Expression of stromal MMP-3 and epithelial MMP-7 increased during early menses. Administration of anti-progestin beginning on the da of the LH surge increased MMP-7 in the ovariectomized steroid-treated animals paralleled that of the intact cycling animals. CONCLUSIONS: These results highlight the similarity of human and baboon endometrial MMP-3 and MMP-7 production, providing further evidence for use of the baboon as a model for studying events associated with hormonally regulated changes during the menstrual cycle. These results also demonstrate that endometrial epithelial MMP-7 is suppressed by progesterone in the baboon endometrium, but endometrial stromal MMP-3 is regulated by a different mechanism. (J Soc Gynecol Investig 2000;7:242-8) Copyright (C) 2000 by the Society for Gynecologic Investigation.