Abstract: Objective: To determine the effect of inhibition of MMP-13 gene in dendritic cell on a mouse model of imiquimod-induced psoriasis. Methods: A mouse model of MMP-13 gene specific knockout in dendritic cells was constructed, and then, the psoriasis lesion was induced by imiquimod. Mice were divided into wild-type control group, MMP-13^LOX/LOX control group, wild-type imiquimod group, MMP-13^LOX/LOX imiquimod group. The clinical manifestations of skin lesions in each group and the psoriasis severity index (PASI) were assessed. The expressions of IL-1, IL-6, IL-23 and IL-17A in mice lesions were detected. Results: Compared with the wild-type imiquimod group, the lesions manifestation of the mice in MMP-13^LOX/LOX imiquimod group were milder, with only mild acanthosis and dermal cell infiltration. The expression level of IL-1 and IL-6 was lower and there was no significant difference in the expression level of IL-23 and IL-17A. Conclusion: Inhibition of MMP-13 gene of dendritic cells can decrease the level of IL-6 and IL-1β and inhibit the inflammation of psoriasis mouse model.

Key words: MMP-13, psoriasis, cytokines