Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of
formoterol and/or ipratropium bromide on pulmonary inflammation
induced by repeated inhalation of cadmium in rats. In addition, we
examined whether the expected anti-inflammatory effects of formoterol
and/or of ipratropium bromide were associated with a modulation
of MMP-2, MMP-9, macrophage metalloelastase (MMP-12) activity and
their tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and tissue
inhibitors of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) which could also contribute
to protective effects against emphysema.