Association of Matrix Metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) Gene Methylation Status with the Risk of Developing Achilles Tendonitis: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship between the MMP-3 gene promoter methylation status and the risk of developing Achilles tendinitis in endurance athletes. METHODS: A total of 20 endurance athletes with achille tendonitis and 20 sedantary controls were involved in the study. DNA isolation and bisulfite modification were performed from peripheral blood samples of all volunteers. Using methylation-specific primers designed for MMP-3 gene promoters, methylation profiles were analyzed by the methylation specific polymerase chain reaction method RESULTS: In the MMP-3 gene promoter methiation analysis, the methylation frequency was found to be 75% in athletes with Achilles tendinitis, while it was found to be 100% in the control group (p<0.05). MMP-3 promoter region methylation status in the patient group was found to be hypomethylated compared to the control group. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The hypomethylated status of the MMP-3 gene promoter may have a role in developing achille tendonitis in athletes. Furher and larges studies are needed to confirm our results.

Keywords

• epigenomics
• tendonopathy
• methylation