AIM:To investigate the relationship of matrix metalloproteinase-2(MMP-2)and transforming growth factor-beta 2(TGF-β2)levels in human vitreous with axial length(AL)of patients with high myopia.

METHODS: The concentrations of MMP-2 and TGF-β2 levels were tested by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbnent Assay(ELISA). Fifty-five human vitreous samples of 55 patients were collected during vitrectomy surgery, and were divided into two groups according to their spherical equivalent(SE)and axial length(AL). High myopia group(25 cases): SE>-6.00D, AL≥26.00mm, and control group or non-high myopia group(30 cases): SE≤-6.00D, AL<26.00mm.

RESULTS: The MMP-2 levels in vitreous of high myopia group(96.87±55.95ng/mL)was significantly higher than that of control group(77.24±41.81ng/mL, P<0.05), but not correlated with AL(r=0.088, P=0.544). While the TGF-β2 vitreous concentration was negatively correlated with AL(r=-0.344, P=0.014), and there was significant difference of TGF-β2 vitreous levels between high myopia group(3729.08±1890.88pg/mL)and control group(3926.00±1333.88pg/mL, P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: MMP-2 and TGF-β2 in human vitreous may play a critical role in human high myopia development, and the TGF-β2 appears to be associated with axial length.