Interference of DEX application to the expression of MMP-9 in the area around hematoma in rats:An experimental study

Objective To study the relationship between the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9(MMP-9) around the hematoma and the application of dexamethasone(DEX) after intra-cerebral hemorrhage(ICH).Methods Sixty-three healthy male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups:ICH with DEX treatment group(group A),ICH group(group B) and sham operation group(group C).The model of ICH in right ganglia was established by autologous blood injection.After modeling,the rats of group A were given a daily intra-peritoneal injection of DEX(1ml/kg).Groups of B and C were given equivalent normal saline instead.After intervention,the rats were decapitated respectively,at time points of 6h,12h,24h,3d,7d and 14d.The expression of MMP-9 was measured by immunohistochemistry technique.Results The expression of MMP-9 in group A was lower than that in group B(P0.05).The expression of MMP-9 in groups A and B was higher than that in group C(P0.05).Conclusion The application of DEX can decrease the expression of MMP-9 in the area around hematoma.The change in the expression of MMP-9 may be used as a channel to alleviate cerebral edema.