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Updated: Aug 9, 2025

Development of Recombinant Proteins to Treat Chronic Pain
Published on: April 11, 2018
Metalloproteases in Pain Generation and Persistence: A Possible Target?
Gianmarco Marcianò1, Cristina Vocca1, Vincenzo Rania1
1Operative Unit of Pharmacology and Pharmacovigilance, "Mater Domini" University Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy.
Abstract:
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a large family of zinc-dependent proteolytic enzymes associated with extracellular matrix protein turnover and tissue degradation. They participate to many different physiological reactions but are also hyperactivated in several diseases. Various literature studies have documented that MMPs play a role in the modulation of neuropathic and nociceptive pain. The heterogeneity of clinical and pre-clinical data is an important issue in this experimental context. Despite the presence of a good number of studies on MMP inhibitors, these drugs showed scarce efficacy and relevant side effects. In the present manuscript, we reviewed studies in the literature that define a possible role of MMPs in pain and the effects of their modulation.
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