Enhanced degradation of proteins of the basal lamina and stroma by matrix metalloproteinases from the salivary glands of Sjögren's syndrome patients: Correlation with reduced structural integrity of acini and ducts

Abstract

Our observation that the proteolytic action of MMPs toward ECM macromolecules is increased in SS patients provides a rationale for understanding the dramatic changes in the structural organization observed in the basal lamina and apical surface of acini in these patients. The results provide new evidence that acinar and ductal cells from the LSGs of SS patients display a molecular potential, with increased capacity to markedly disorganize their ECM environment and, thus, damage their architecture and functionality.