Alteration in Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPS) Activity in Fibroblast Cell Line by Dexamethasone: A Possible Mechanism in Corticosteroid-Induced Glaucoma.

Corticosteroids are often used as anti-inflammatory agents in a variety of inflammatory diseases. It is well established that long-term administration of corticosteroids predisposed the patients to develop glaucoma. Although the exact pathophysiology of steroid-induced glaucoma is unknown, it is assumed that Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have a role in its pathogenesis. To study and estimate the pathophysiological effects of MMPs in glaucoma, we established an in vitro cell culture model. We also employed a precise proliferation assay to analyze cytotoxic effect of dexamethasone. The influence of dexamethasone on MMPs production was investigated using an in vitro gelatin Zymography. Cytotoxcity analysis of Dexamethasone revealed no significant cell death in low concentration. However, it caused 50% and 70% cell death at 80 and 100 mg/mL respectively. It also revealed an inhibitory effect on MMPs by dexamethasone in a dose dependent fashion. It may be concluded that an alteration in the level of MMPs expression by dexamethasone interferes with ocular fluid drainage and may contribute to the pathogenesis of glaucoma.