The purpose of the present study was to analyze the expression of the major metalloproteases in normal and ligated glands. The major metalloproteases detected had a molecular weight ranging from 72 to 65 kDa. The gelatinolytic activity increased progressively reaching a peak between 5 and 10 days after ligation. Bands with molecular weight ranging from 92-80 kDa were also detected in the capsule of the gland. The 92-80 kDa enzymes were only detected 2 days after ligation. The activity of these enzymes was supressed by specific inhibitors. Our results show that matrix metalloproteases play an active role in the extensive remodeling of the connective tissue that occurs during the atrophy of the submandibular gland.
Metalloproteases; Salivary glands; Atrophy
