title: Matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors.
abstract: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of 16 enzymes that are capable of degrading extracellular matrix components. Their catalytic function is dependent on a zinc ion in the active center. MMPs are separated in three groups: gelatinases (type IV-collagenases), stromelysins, and interstitial collagenases. Their physiological and pathological significance is to modulate the extracellular matrix-e. g., in embryogenesis, in the ovarian cycles, or in inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or fibrosis of the liver or kidney (1,2).
authors.affiliation: Department of Urology, University of Güttingen Medical School, Gottingen, Germany.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Kugler
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Thelen
authors.forename: R H
authors.initials: RH
authors.lastname: Ringert