Molecular Wound Assessments: Matrix Metalloproteinases

The process of wound healing includes the regulated destruction of proteins via enzymes called proteinases. However, when the proteolytic process becomes excessive, pro-healing factors are destroyed and the wound healing process stalls. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are one key class of proteinases that have been observed to be elevated in many cases of failed wound healing.

Two key advances have been made in recent years. First is that, until recently, MMPs were only implicated in impaired healing of chronic wounds. Measurements of MMPs in wound fluids and serum from individuals with acute traumatic wounds have revealed that elevated MMPs are predictive of both impaired healing and of dehiscence of surgically closed wounds. The second advance is in the development of at least three clinically viable methods for measuring MMPs at the point of care.

At present there is no objective method of determining proteinase levels within a wound. Since elevated MMPs have now been shown to be predictive of dehiscence in surgically closed acute wounds, a new clinical utility for measuring MMPs has been established. With the advent of several new technologies to measure MMPs, the translation of this valuable molecular knowledge into improved therapeutic regimens is nearly complete.

The clinical utility of measuring MMPs continues to expand and be further validated with each new investigation. The tools that will enable clinicians to leverage this valuable information are nearing maturity and integration into the clinic.