Year: 2003
Type: review
Abstract: The matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family plays an important role in the degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) in various physiological and pathological conditions. Accumulated evidence has suggested that MMPs contribute to cancer cell invasion of the surrounding normal tissues and metastasis through the cell-surface ECM degradation. Strong correlations have been reported between elevated MMP levels and tumor cell invasiveness in human gliomas. Among them, attention has been focused on gelatinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) and membrane type MMPs (MT-MMPs). We discuss here the biological significance of these MMPs in the glioblastoma invasion processes. A better understanding of cell-ECM interactions will help in developing therapeutic strategies to decrease the invasion of gliomas.
Source: Frontiers in bioscience
DOI: 10.2741/1016
Author: Mitsutoshi Nakada
Institution: Kanazawa University
Language: English
Subfield: Cancer Research
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2049813036