title: Matrix metalloproteinases and the gut - new roles for old enzymes.
abstract: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of neutral proteases with the ability to degrade all components of extracellular matrix. To date, more than 24 different human MMPs have been identified. MMP activity is important in diseases such as arthritis, atherosclerosis, periodontal diseases and cancer. Recent data suggest that MMPs are involved in tissue injury and healing in the human gut.
authors.affiliation: Division of Infection, Inflammation and Repair, School of Medicine, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK.
authors.forename: Sylvia L F
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Pender
authors.forename: Thomas T
authors.initials: TT
authors.lastname: MacDonald
mesh_terms: D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D005767:Gastrointestinal Diseases / Q000201:enzymology*; D041981:Gastrointestinal Tract / Q000201:enzymology; D006801:Humans; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000494:pharmacology; D006113:United Kingdom
chemical_list: D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases