Stimulation of Matrix Metalloproteinases by Hyperosmolarity via a JNK Pathway in Human Corneal Epithelial Cells

To investigate whether exposure of human corneal epithelial cells to hyperosmotic stress activates the c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK) stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK) pathway, and stimulates production of the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs): gelatinase (MMP-9), collagenases (MMP-1 and -13), and stromelysin (MMP-3).Primary human corneal epithelial cells cultured in normal osmolar medium (312 mOsM) were exposed to media with higher...