MMP-2: A Crucial Enzyme in Cellular Processes

Structure:

• Zinc-dependent endopeptidase
• Multiple domains including catalytic and hemopexin-like regions
• Activated by complex interactions with MT1-MMP and TIMP-2

Physiological Functions:

• Extracellular matrix remodeling
• Degrades basement membrane proteins
• Critical in embryonic development
• Supports wound healing
• Facilitates angiogenesis

Clinical Significance:

1. Cancer:

• Promotes tumor invasion
• Facilitates metastasis
• Associated with poor prognosis

2. Cardiovascular Diseases:

• Involved in vascular remodeling
• Contributes to atherosclerotic plaque instability
• Linked to aortic aneurysm development

3. Other Conditions:

• Contributes to arthritis
• Involved in fibrotic disorders

Therapeutic Potential:

• Potential cancer treatment target
• Cardiovascular intervention strategy
• Prognostic marker

Research Directions:

• Developing selective inhibitors
• Identifying biomarkers
• Understanding regulatory mechanisms
• Tissue-specific targeting strategies

Challenges:

• Complex regulation
• Broad substrate specificity
• Risk of non-selective inhibition