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The Role of Matrix Metalloproteinases in Liver Function and Disease

Gregoria Mitropoulou1, Vasiliki Kompoura1, Francesca Saffioti2,3,4,5

  • 1Laboratory of Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece.

Frontiers in Bioscience (Landmark Edition)
|June 4, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are key in liver disease. Research shows their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for liver fibrosis, cancer, and regeneration.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Hepatology

Background:

  • Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are crucial in liver disease pathogenesis, including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and cancer.
  • Their roles extend to metastasis, de-differentiation, and hepatic cell proliferation, impacting disease progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the diagnostic and prognostic potential of MMPs and TIMPs in liver diseases.
  • To highlight their involvement in key pathological processes and their utility as biomarkers.
  • To discuss current and future therapeutic strategies targeting MMPs and TIMPs for liver disease management.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on MMPs and TIMPs in liver diseases.
  • Analysis of data from advanced reporter mouse models for assessing MMP activity and metastatic risk.
  • Exploration of ongoing research into MMP-targeted therapies and biomarker development.

Main Results:

  • MMPs and TIMPs are implicated in liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and cancer progression.
  • Reporter mouse models aid in evaluating MMP activity and predicting metastatic potential.
  • Specific MMPs and TIMPs show promise as biomarkers for liver function and disease, though clinical consensus is pending.

Conclusions:

  • MMPs and TIMPs are vital in liver function and disease, offering diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential.
  • Targeted therapies aiming to balance MMP activity and TIMP expression are under investigation for liver disease management.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate their roles, particularly in ischemia and transplantation, to improve clinical outcomes.
Keywords:
extracellular matrixliver biomarkersliver physiologypathogenesistissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases

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