Matrix metalloproteinase family (MMPs)

The extracellular matrix (ECM) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) constitute a fundamental biological system responsible for tissue scaffolding and remodeling. MMPs are a family of over 20 zinc-dependent endopeptidases that degrade various components of the ECM, including collagen, laminin, and fibronectin, thereby facilitating processes such as wound healing and angiogenesis (StatPearls, 2023). In pathological states like cancer, overexpressed MMPs degrade the basement membrane, promoting tumor invasion and metastasis (PubMed, PMID: 28973513). While MMPs are significant therapeutic targets, early broad-spectrum inhibitors like marimastat faced clinical failure due to dose-limiting musculoskeletal toxicity and a lack of selectivity between different MMP isoforms (NIH, 2021). Modern drug discovery efforts focus on highly selective inhibitors or antibody-based approaches to target specific MMPs involved in inflammation and fibrotic diseases (PubMed, PMID: 12161286). This entry is marked as incorrect because the provided name refers to a broad biological system and environment rather than a single specific molecular target.

Other names

MatrixinsMatrix metallopeptidasesECM-degrading enzymesMatrix metalloproteinases

Chelation or competitive inhibition of the catalytic zinc ion within the enzyme active site to prevent the degradation of extracellular matrix substrates.