Abstract:

To investigate expressions of PPARγ matrix metalloproteinase9 (MMP9) and induced nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in the bronchial mucosa of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) and to explore their correlation with airflow obstruction. Methods： Based on their smoking history and lung function, they were divided into three groups: 18 smokers with COPD, 15 smokers and 15 nonsmokers with normal lung function. Expressions of PPARγ, MMP9 and iNOS in the bronchial mucosa were determined by immunohistochemistry. Results① Immunohistochemical staining showed that PPARγ was decreased in smokers of the COPD group and smokers of the normal lung function group, while MMP9 and iNOS were increased in both groups compared with nonsmokers with normal lung function（P＜0.01）. ② The bronchial mucosa levels of PPARγ was positively correlated with FEV1% and FEV1/FVC% (P＜0.01), however MMP9 and iNOS was inversely correlated with FEV1% and FEV1/FVC% (P＜0.01). Expression of PPARγ was inversely correlated with MMP9 and iNOS(P＜0.05）. ConclusionsThe decrease of PPARγ in bronchial mucosa of patients with COPD may lead to abnormal inflammation of the airway, and thus produces or aggravates airway obstruction in patients with  COPD.

Key words: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; Peroxisome  proliferatoractivited receptor; Matrix metalloproteinase9;  Induced nitric oxide synthase