The Beneficial Effects of Doxycycline, An Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinases, on Sulfur Mustard-Induced Ocular Pathologies Depend on the Injury Stage

Abstract

This in vivo study showed the involvement of MMP-9 and MMP-2 during different phases of the SM-induced ocular injury, and the potential of doxycycline treatment as a post exposure measure for reducing the acute injury and as a preventive therapy for ameliorating the delayed pathology. The tear fluid provided a non-invasive method for continuous follow-up of MMPs activity and revealed additional beneficial aspects of injury and the treatment.