Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Implantation of Fibrin Gel on Mouse Lung to Study Lung-specific Angiogenesis
Published on: December 21, 2014
Matrix metalloproteinases in respiratory diseases: from pathogenesis to potential clinical implications
Smaragda Oikonomidi1, Konstantinos Kostikas, Irene Tsilioni
1Respiratory Medicine Department, University of Thessaly Medical School, University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece.
Abstract:
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc-endopeptidases responsible for degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) components including basement membrane collagen, interstitial collagen, fibronectin, and various proteoglycans, during normal remodeling and repair processes. The turnover and remodeling of ECM must be tightly regulated since excessive or inappropriate expression of MMPs may contribute to the pathogenesis of tissue destructive processes associated with lung inflammation and disease. Despite the fact that our knowledge in the field of MMP biology is rapidly expanding, the role of MMPs in the pathogenesis of lung diseases is still not clear. The aim of the present review is to present the basic principles of MMP biology and, subsequently, to focus on the clinical and experimental evidence related to MMP activity in various lung disorders, including lung cancer, pleural effusions, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, acute respiratory distress syndrome and interstitial lung diseases.
Related Concept Videos
Role of Matrix Metalloproteases in Degradation of ECM
A...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
COPD: Pathogenesis and Clinical Features
The primary cause for the onset of COPD is cigarette smoking and exposure to air pollution. These hazardous factors initiate a chain reaction within the lungs, resulting in chronic inflammation, damage to the airways, and a...
Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract