Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 12, 2026

A TNBS-Induced Rodent Model to Study the Pathogenic Role of Mechanical Stress in Crohn's Disease
Published on: March 1, 2022
Matrix metalloproteinases in inflammatory bowel disease: an update
Shane O'Sullivan1, John F Gilmer1, Carlos Medina1
1School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland.
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are upregulated in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This review explores their diverse roles in IBD pathophysiology and potential as therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and Immunology
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and other inflammatory conditions.
- Their precise roles in IBD pathogenesis are still being elucidated, despite clear upregulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on the diverse roles of MMPs in IBD.
- To highlight MMPs as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for IBD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on MMPs in IBD since 2006.
- Analysis of MMP involvement in immune and stromal cell responses to inflammatory stimuli.
Main Results:
- MMPs are released by various cells in response to cytokines and growth factors.
- MMPs regulate key processes in IBD including barrier function, immune response, angiogenesis, fibrosis, and wound healing.
Conclusions:
- MMPs play multifaceted roles in IBD pathophysiology.
- Further research into MMPs may lead to novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for IBD.
Related Concept Videos
Role of Matrix Metalloproteases in Degradation of ECM
Inflammatory Bowel Disease II: Crohn's Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease, commonly known as IBD, refers to a collection of disorders that lead to persistent inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The two types of IBD are ulcerative colitis, which impacts the colon, and Crohn's disease, which can involve any part of the gastrointestinal segment.
Crohn's disease
Crohn's disease is a chronic, systemic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that predominantly affects the gastrointestinal tract. It is marked by...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease IV: Pharmacological Management
Pharmacologic...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Diagnostic Studies and Management I-Nutritional Therapy
Diagnostic studies
A colonoscopy is the definitive screening test, distinguishing ulcerative colitis from other colon diseases with similar symptoms. During a colonoscopy test, inflamed mucosa with exudate ulcerations can be observed, and biopsies are taken to determine the histologic characteristics of the...
Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Biologic Agents: Anti-TNF

