2147-PUB: Change in Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity Is Associated with Zinc Level in the Development of Renal Changes in a Diabetic Preclinical Model

Zinc is required for activation of Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs). Circulating zinc levels are decreased in diabetes1 and decreased activity of some MMPs is associated with the development of diabetic nephropathy (DN). The association between MMP activity and zinc in the development of DN has not been investigated and was examined in a preclinical model in this study. In this study, diabetic (DM: STZ: 3x 65mg/kg) male BALB/c mice were euthanized after 5, 10 and 30wks of diabetes. Age-matched mice acted as controls. At termination, kidneys, plasma and urine were collected for histopathology, measurement of biochemical parameters, total MMP activity using a broad spectrum MMP fluorogenic substrate and zinc level by ICPMS. In DM mice, blood glucose levels were increased at 5, 10 and 30wks (P