A conceptualized model linking matrix metalloproteinase-9 to schizophrenia pathogenesis

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biochemistry
• Pathology

Background:

• Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) is an enzyme involved in extracellular processes, notably in the brain.
• MMP-9 is synthesized as a latent zymogen (pro-MMP-9) and activated by pro-domain cleavage.
• Its expression in the central nervous system is modulated by various factors including cytokines, growth factors, and oxidative stress.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize existing evidence linking MMP-9 dysregulation to schizophrenia pathogenesis.
• To provide an overview of MMP-9's role in brain development and physiology.
• To propose a hypothesis for MMP-9's involvement in schizophrenia.

Main Methods:

• Narrative synthesis of existing scientific literature.
• Review of studies on MMP-9's involvement in neurodevelopmental processes.
• Analysis of potential mechanisms linking MMP-9 anomalies to schizophrenia.

Main Results:

• MMP-9 is implicated in critical neurodevelopmental processes such as neuronal maturation, perineuronal net formation, synaptic pruning, and myelination.
• Dysregulation of MMP-9 may affect the maturation of neural circuits.
• These anomalies are hypothesized to contribute to schizophrenia.

Conclusions:

• MMP-9 dysregulation is potentially linked to schizophrenia pathogenesis.
• MMP-9's role in neurodevelopment suggests a mechanism for its contribution to the illness.
• A testable hypothesis is proposed linking MMP-9 to the developmental cascade of schizophrenia.