Abstract: Objective Compare the expression of Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and -2 in the vaginal tissue from 20 women with pelvic floor dysfunction and the controls in order to investigate the relation of Matrix metalloproteinase and female pelvic floor dysfunction. Methods A total of 40 women referred for pelvic reconstruction surgery for pelvic floor dysfunction or benign gynaecological disease were included in this study from January 2009 to May 2010. During surgery, vaginal tissue biopsies were obtained from patients with POP (n=20) and women without evidence of pelvic floor weakening (n=20). Level of MMP-1, -2 and pro-MMP-2 in the vaginal tissue of women were measured. Statistical evaluations were made by Student t-test or x2 test. Results A significant increase in MMP-1 expression was seen in vaginal tissue from women with POP (p<0.05). In contrast, there was no difference in the expression of MMP-2 between women with POP and those without (p>0.05). Interesting, a significant increase in pro-MMP-2 expression was seen in vaginal tissue from women with POP (p<0.05). Conclusions MMP-1 increases the collagen degradation. Increased MMP-1 expression in the vaginal tissue is associated with urogenital prolapse.

Key words: Matrix metalloproteinases, pelvic organ prolapse