Dynamic Changes of Aqueous Matrix Metalloproteinases and Imaging Correlation in Retinal Vein Occlusion Following Ranibizumab Therapy.

PURPOSE: To investigate changes in aqueous humour matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) after intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) therapy, and their correlations with imaging parameters in retinal vein occlusion (RVO).

METHODS

Aqueous humour samples from 28 RVO patients were collected at baseline, 1 and 2 months after IVR therapy. MMP-1, -2, -3, -7, -8, -9, -10, TIMP-1, and VEGF-A levels were measured using Luminex × MAP®. Participants were categorized as Responders or Non-responders based on ≥ 30% central retinal thickness (CRT) reduction at month 2. MMPs and TIMP-1 changes were analyzed. Correlations between baseline MMP-1, MMP-2, TIMP-1, and retinal structural and microvascular parameters were assessed. Multivariate regression analyzed associations with treatment response.

RESULTS

Intraocular MMP-1, MMP-2, and TIMP-1 levels significantly decreased in responders but not in non-responders. Baseline MMP-1, MMP-2, and TIMP-1 were positively correlated with CRT, IS-OS and ELM disruption, DRIL, and SRD height (all P < 0.05). Negative correlations were observed between MMP-1 (r=-0.520, P=006), TIMP-1 (r=-0.416, P=0.039) and FAZ size. Higher baseline MMP-1 (P=0.024) and lower TIMP-1 (P=0.034) levels were associated with greater CRT reduction.

CONCLUSION

Aqueous MMP-1, MMP-2, and TIMP-1 are associated with in macular edema, retinal damage, and microvascular changes in RVO. Baseline MMP-1 and TIMP-1 may serve as potential biomarkers for predicting short-term therapeutic response.