recombinant human matrix metalloproteinase-7

Recombinant human matrix metalloproteinase-7 (rhMMP-7), also known as matrilysin, is an investigational recombinant enzyme developed as a chemonucleolysis agent for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation. Developed by Shionogi in collaboration with Rush University, rhMMP-7 is designed for direct intradiscal injection into the nucleus pulposus. Its mechanism of action involves the targeted enzymatic degradation of extracellular matrix components, primarily proteoglycans like aggrecan. By breaking down these water-binding molecules, the enzyme reduces the osmotic pressure and volume of the herniated disc material, facilitating its resorption and alleviating compression on adjacent spinal nerves. This approach aims to provide a minimally invasive alternative to surgical intervention. Clinical development reached Phase 1/2 (e.g., NCT01837095), though the program has not recently appeared in active development pipelines.

Other names

matrilysinmatrilysin-1matrilysin1matrilysin 1MMP-7MMP7MMP 7