Detection and analysis of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in seminal plasma

Abstract

Abstract

Background:

The aim of this study was to explore the association between semen parameters and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) expression in human seminal plasma samples.

Methods:

Conventional semen analysis was performed on semen samples (n = 64). MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression in seminal plasma was determined using gelatin zymography.

Results:

Compared to semen samples with a normal sperm count, semen samples with a low sperm count (≤ 19 × 10⁶/ml) showed reduced sperm viability, a reduced percentage of Grade A sperm, a reduced percentage of morphologically-normal sperm, and lower proMMP-9 and MMP-9 but higher proMMP-2 and MMP-2 levels (P < 0.05). There were correlations between MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression and the percentage of Grade A sperm and morphologically-normal sperm (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

MMP-2 and MMP-9 are both present in human semen, and low-concentration semen samples have increased MMP-2 and decreased MMP-9. We also observed relationships between MMP-2, MMP-9 and seminal parameters.