Journal of Carcinogenesis & Mutagenesis

Abstrait

Matrix Metalloproteinases-Modulating the Tumor Microenvironment

Marzenna Wiranowska, Amyn M Rojiani and Mumtaz V Rojiani

Observations on the collagenolytic activity of endopeptidases in tadpoles undergoing metamorphosis were the early steps in defining this family of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). Extensive investigations into these enzymes in plants and animals have revealed the highly pleiotropic nature of these molecules, both in physiologic and pathologic conditions. The human MMP family is comprised of over 23 members, which are capable of degrading and processing almost all components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) such as proteins and proteoglycans including those of basement membrane. MMPs also can cleave a wide variety of non-matrix substrates such as cytokines, chemokines, growth factors and their receptors as well as adhesion. Molecules important in tumor microenvironment and at all stages of tumor progression.