Matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases in ovarian function

Growth and ovulation of follicles, and development, maintenance, and regression of the corpus luteum depend on cyclical remodelling of the extracellular matrix. The extracellular matrix consists of proteinaceous and non-proteinaceous components and provides the tissue-specific, extracellular architecture to which cells attach, and modulates the activities of cells through cell surface receptors. Specific components of the extracellular matrix are cleaved by matrix metalloproteinases, the activities of which are inhibited by tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases. This review presents evidence for the involvement of matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in extracellular matrix remodelling associated with ovarian function.