Matrix metalloproteases as biomarkers of disease

Abstract

Matrix metalloprotease play a vital role in many cellular processes. Dysfunction in activity of these enzymes has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of diseases. Factors that affect the balanced interaction between MMPs and their inhibitors, such as genetic mutations of extracellular matrix components or dysregulation of MMP expression, can lead to various diseases. Due to their essential role in ECM remodeling, MMPs have become targets of interest as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of diseases associated with alterations of the ECM.