title: Matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors: current developments and future perspectives.
abstract: Malignant tumors are characterized by invasive growth and metastasis. To facilitate this invasive behavior, the enzymatic breakdown of the extracellular matrix (ECM) is a prerequisite. Many human tumors are characterized by locally increased concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), enzymes that are able to degrade this ECM. A vast number of matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors (MMPIs) have been developed in recent years and after extensive preclinical testing, the results of the first clinical studies with several of these compounds have recently been presented. In this review we will describe some of the basic concepts of the degradation of the ECM, with special emphasis on the role of MMPs in the progression of cancer. Furthermore we will review the results of preclinical and clinical studies with MMPIs and discuss their future perspective.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medical Oncology, Rotterdam Cancer Institute, Daniel den Hoed Kliniek and University Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. hoekstra@oncd.azr.nl
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Hoekstra
authors.forename: F A
authors.initials: FA
authors.lastname: Eskens
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Verweij
mesh_terms: D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000201:enzymology / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D061965:Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitors; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases / Q000494:pharmacology*; D009361:Neoplasm Invasiveness / Q000503:physiopathology*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D061965:Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitors; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases