Targeting Invasion: The Role of MMP-2 and MMP-9 Inhibition in Colorectal Cancer Therapy

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the most prevalent and lethal cancers worldwide, prompting ongoing research into innovative therapeutic strategies. This review aims to systematically evaluate the role of gelatinases, specifically MMP-2 and MMP-9, as therapeutic targets in CRC, providing a critical analysis of their potential to improve patient outcomes. Gelatinases, specifically MMP-2 and MMP-9, play critical roles in the processes of tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. Their expression and activity are significantly elevated in CRC, correlating with poor prognosis and lower survival rates. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiological roles of gelatinases in CRC, highlighting their contribution to tumor microenvironment modulation, angiogenesis, and the metastatic cascade. We also critically evaluate recent advancements in the development of gelatinase inhibitors, including small molecule inhibitors, natural compounds, and novel therapeutic approaches like gene silencing techniques. Challenges such as nonspecificity, adverse side effects, and resistance mechanisms are discussed. We explore the potential of gelatinase inhibition in combination therapies, particularly with conventional chemotherapy and emerging targeted treatments, to enhance therapeutic efficacy and overcome resistance. The novelty of this review lies in its integration of recent findings on diverse inhibition strategies with insights into their clinical relevance, offering a roadmap for future research. By addressing the limitations of current approaches and proposing novel strategies, this review underscores the potential of gelatinase inhibitors in CRC prevention and therapy, inspiring further exploration in this promising area of oncological treatment.