Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the molecular structure of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the wound surface of pressure ulcers. Protein samples of excreted tissue fluid attached to the gauze surface of gauze from eight patients were extracted and subjected to examine for the presence of ECM-related molecules by utilizing specific antibody and ELISA to measure the enzymatic level of MMP3. It was revealed that i) western blot profiles differed from one another depending on the surface condition of the pressure ulcer; ii) a distinct immuno-staining profile was observed even in samples isolated from the same pressure ulcer; and iii) the MMP3 expression level also differed among protein samples. These results suggest that the molecular construction of the ECM around the wound surface of a pressure ulcer might differ from patient to patient. Therefore, it is important that nurses consider the nursing intervention based on the surface condition of pressure ulcers. In addition, MMP3-involvement in pressure ulcers is also suggested this enzyme has been detected in protein samples from the wound surface of pressure ulcers.
