Genetic Polymorphisms in Matrix Metalloproteinases and Susceptibility to Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Case-Control Study

Abstract

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) represent a complex group of musculoskeletal conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint and surrounding structures, with a multifactorial etiology that remains incompletely understood. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), particularly MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, and MMP-9, play crucial roles in extracellular matrix remodeling and tissue homeostasis within the temporomandibular joint. This case-control study investigated the association between genetic polymorphisms in MMP genes and susceptibility to TMDs in a cohort of 240 participants (120 TMD patients and 120 healthy controls). Genotyping was performed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methods for MMP-1 (-1607 1G/2G), MMP-2 (-1306 C/T), MMP-3 (-1171 5A/6A), and MMP-9 (-1562 C/T) polymorphisms. Our findings revealed significant associations between MMP-1 -1607 2G/2G genotype (OR = 2.34, 95% CI: 1.28-4.27, p = 0.006) and MMP-3 -1171 5A/5A genotype (OR = 2.89, 95% CI: 1.52-5.48, p = 0.001) with increased TMD susceptibility. These results suggest that genetic variations in MMP genes may contribute to individual predisposition to TMDs, potentially through altered extracellular matrix degradation and joint tissue remodeling. Understanding these genetic factors could facilitate the development of personalized therapeutic approaches and risk stratification strategies for TMD management.