Matrix metalloproteinases in disease and repair processes in the anterior segment

The pathogenesis of many anterior segment disorders and ocular complications following surgery are secondary to the wound healing response. The extent of clinical damage observed is closely related to the amount of scarring and tissue contraction. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of enzymes that play a vital role in all stages of the wound healing process. They degrade all extracellular matrix components and also have the ability to synthesize collagen and extracellular matrix members, and are therefore important in the remodeling of a wound. Overexpression of MMPs results in excessive extracellular matrix degradation, leading to tissue destruction and loss of organ function. In the case of the anterior segment, this may mean the loss of visual function. This review focuses on the role MMPs have in the development of various anterior segment disorders. The importance of MMPs in the wound healing response and its potential modulation to manipulate the scarring response is being recognized, and current developments will be described.