The Role of Matrix Metalloproteinases in Colorectal Cancer

Cancers

Anan H. Said¹  Jean-Pierre Raufman¹ 

[1]Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Veterans Affairs Maryland Health Care System, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA

关键词: matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs);    colorectal cancer;    tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs);    matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors (MMPIs);   

DOI  :  10.3390/cancers6010366

来源: mdpi

【 摘 要 】

In the United States, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer mortality, with limited treatment options for those with advanced disease. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are important for maintaining extracellular homeostasis but also play a prominent role in cancer cell invasion and dissemination. Expression levels of MMP-1, -2, -7, -9 and -13 correlate with worse outcomes; MMP-12 expression appears to be protective. Hence, MMPs are attractive therapeutic targets. Previous clinical trials using broad-spectrum MMP inhibitors were disappointing because of off-target toxicity and lack of efficacy. Now, the availability of safer, more selective inhibitors has renewed interest in therapeutic targeting of MMPs.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© 2014 by the authors; licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.