Interplays Between Matrix Metalloproteinases and Neurotropic Viruses: An Overview

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biochemistry
• Pathology

Background:

• Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are crucial proteases modulating extracellular matrix (ECM), cytokines, and growth factors.
• In the central nervous system (CNS), MMPs are vital for development, plasticity, repair, and neuroimmune responses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of MMPs in CNS physiological processes.
• To explore the involvement of MMPs in the pathogenesis of neurotropic viral infections and their neurological complications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on MMPs in the CNS.
• Analysis of MMP involvement in neurological disorders and viral infections.

Main Results:

• MMPs are implicated in CNS development, learning, memory, and injury repair.
• Dysregulation of MMPs is linked to neurological conditions like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, stroke, and brain cancer.
• MMPs contribute to neurotropic viral infection pathogenesis, affecting cellular processes.

Conclusions:

• MMPs are key regulators in the nervous system, impacting both normal function and disease states.
• Targeting MMPs presents a potential therapeutic strategy for neurological disorders and viral infections affecting the CNS.