REVIEW: Matrix Metalloproteinases of Normal Human Tissues

P. Z. Khasigov^1*, O. V. Podobed¹, S. A. Ktzoeva¹, T. M. Gatagonova¹, S. V. Grachev¹, S. S. Shishkin², and T. T. Berezov³

¹Sechenov Moscow Medical Academy, ul. Bol'shaya Pirogovskaya 2/6, Moscow, 119881 Russia; fax: (095) 248-0181

²Research Center of Medical Genetics, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, ul. Moskvorech'e 1, Moscow, 115478 Russia; fax: (095) 324-0702

³Russian University of People's Friendship, ul. Miklukho-Maklaya 6, Moscow, 117198 Russia; fax: (095) 434-0412

^* To whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received August 15, 2000; Revision received September 26, 2000

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This review considers biochemical properties of the family of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) of normal human tissues and the involvement of these enzymes in morphogenesis. Four main MMP subfamilies are characterized, and a group of other MMPs is described. Data on mechanisms of activation and inhibition of MMPs in certain tissues during various physiological processes (embryogenesis, angiogenesis, tissue growth and involution) are considered. Information about tissue inhibitors of MMP is presented, and the ability of these inhibitors to regulate the activity of MMPs is analyzed.

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KEY WORDS: matrix metalloproteinases, tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases, extracellular matrix

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