Induction of gelatinase B and MCP-2 in baboons during sublethal and lethal bacteraemia.

Intravenous injection of sublethal or lethal doses of Escherichia coli in baboons resulted in increased serum levels of the matrix metalloprotease gelatinase B and the chemokine monocyte chemotactic protein 2 (MCP-2). In both animal models, gelatinase B appeared faster than MCP-2. After sublethal challenge, serum levels of gelatinase B and MCP-2 were found to be correlated, reaching peak levels between 2 and 4 h after bacterial challenge. After lethal challenge, however, MCP-2 tended to increase until 10 h. The kinetics of appearance suggest induction of release of gelatinase B and de novo synthesis and secretion of MCP-2, both by endotoxin.