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Updated: Aug 13, 2026
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Published on: April 10, 2014
What has been learned about the cardiovascular effects of matrix metalloproteinases from mouse models?
Stefan Janssens1, H Roger Lijnen
1Department of Cardiology, Center for Transgene Technology and Gene Therapy, Flemish Interuniversity Institute for Biotechnology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium. stefan.janssens@med.kuleuven.be
Abstract:
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of proteolytic enzymes responsible for extracellular protein degradation in the cardiovascular system. Originally known to play pivotal roles in tissue morphogenesis and wound healing, they have been shown to participate in the complex remodeling processes in blood vessels and the myocardium. The biological activity of MMPs is regulated at different levels: (1) gene expression, (2) activation of precursor proenzyme forms by other MMPs or non-MMP proteins, including thrombin and plasmin, (3) complex formation with surface and extracellular matrix (ECM) components and (4) inhibition by endogenous tissue inhibitors of MMPs, the TIMPs. Murine models with gain or loss of gene function of different MMPs and TIMPS have provided a wealth of experimental data on their critical role in pathological conditions ranging from atherosclerosis, vascular injury, and restenosis to left ventricular function and structural remodeling following chronic pressure and volume overload and ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Insights
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are key enzymes in cardiovascular remodeling. Studies using gene-modified mice reveal their critical roles in various cardiovascular diseases.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Protease Biochemistry
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes degrading extracellular matrix proteins.
- They are crucial for tissue remodeling in blood vessels and the heart.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of MMPs and their inhibitors (TIMPs) in cardiovascular pathologies.
- To understand MMP regulation and function in cardiovascular disease models.
Main Methods:
- Utilized murine models with genetic modifications (gain or loss of function) for MMPs and TIMPs.
- Examined pathological conditions including atherosclerosis, vascular injury, restenosis, and cardiac remodeling.
Main Results:
- MMPs play significant roles in cardiovascular remodeling processes.
- Genetic manipulation of MMPs and TIMPs impacts disease progression in various cardiovascular conditions.
Conclusions:
- MMPs are critical regulators of cardiovascular structure and function.
- Understanding MMPs and TIMPs is vital for developing therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular diseases.
