Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 2, 2026

2D and 3D Matrices to Study Linear Invadosome Formation and Activity
Published on: June 2, 2017
[The role of matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases in invasion of tumours of
Jarosław Bogaczewicz1, Piotr Jasielski, Anna Mosiewicz
1Katedra i Klinika Neurochirurgii i Neurochirurgii Dzieciêcej, Akademia Medyczna im. prof. Feliksa Skubiszewskiego, ul. Jaczewskiego 8, 20-954 Lublin. jbogaczewicz@poczta.onet.pl
Abstract:
Tumour invasion requires degradation of extracellular matrix components and migration of cells through degraded structures into surrounding tissues. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) constitute a family of zinc and calcium-dependent endopeptidases that play a key role in the breakdown of extracellular matrix, and in processing of cytokines, growth factors, chemokines and cell surface receptors. Their activity is regulated at the levels of transcription, activation and inhibition by tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP). Changes in expression of MMP and TIMP are implicated in tumour invasion, because they may contribute to both migration of tumour cells and angiogenesis. Alterations of MMP expression observed in brain tumours arouse interest in the development and evaluation of synthetic matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors as antitumour agents.
Related Concept Videos
Role of Matrix Metalloproteases in Degradation of ECM
The Tumor Microenvironment
Metastasis
Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition or EMT is a developmental process commonly observed in wound healing, embryogenesis, and cancer metastasis. EMT is induced by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) or receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) ligands, which further...
Cancer Cell Migration through Invadopodia
Overview of Cell-Matrix Interactions
The Extracellular Matrix
In order to maintain tissue organization, many animal cells are surrounded by structural molecules that make up the extracellular matrix (ECM). Together, the molecules in the ECM maintain the structural integrity of tissue as well as the remarkable specific properties of certain tissues.
Composition of the Extracellular Matrix
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is commonly composed of ground substance, a gel-like fluid, fibrous components, and many structurally and functionally diverse...

