title: Matrix metalloproteinases.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have a role in gastrointestinal malignancy. This role is reviewed, with particular reference to the gelatinase subgroup of enzymes.
  
  
  METHODS
  All relevant papers derived from the Medline and Enbase databases between 1984 and early 1996 were reviewed.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  There is now strong evidence that MMPs play a major role in tumour invasion and metastasis. The development of MMP inhibitors may lead to important new treatment for the control of malignant disease.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Nottingham, UK.
authors.forename: S L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Parsons
authors.forename: S A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Watson
authors.forename: P D
authors.initials: PD
authors.lastname: Brown
authors.forename: H M
authors.initials: HM
authors.lastname: Collins
authors.forename: R J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Steele
mesh_terms: D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004789:Enzyme Activation; D005109:Extracellular Matrix; D005770:Gastrointestinal Neoplasms / Q000201:enzymology*; D006801:Humans; D008666:Metalloendopeptidases / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D009361:Neoplasm Invasiveness; D014945:Wound Healing
chemical_list: D008666:Metalloendopeptidases