Suppression of matrix metalloproteinase production from nasal fibroblasts by fluticasone propionate in vitro.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To examine the influence of fluticasone propionate (FP) on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) production from nasal polyp fibroblasts in vitro. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Fibroblasts derived from five nasal polyps were stimulated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha in the presence of various concentrations of FP. The influence of FP on MMP production was assessed by examining the levels of MMP-2 and -9 in culture supernatants using ELISA. We also examined the influence of FP on MMP mRNA expression using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: The addition of FP caused significant suppression of MMP-2 and -9 production from nasal polyp fibroblasts in response to TNF-alpha stimulation. MMP mRNA expression was also suppressed by the addition of FP to cell cultures. The minimum concentration of the agent required to cause suppression was 10(-5) M. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that the inhibitory action of FP on tissue remodeling may underlie the clinical efficacy of corticosteroids in nasal polyposis.