Matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors: Present achievements and future prospects

摘要: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a class of structurally related enzymes that function in the degradation extracellular matrix proteins constitute pericellular connective tissue and play an important role both normal pathological remodelling. Increased MMP activity is detected wide range cancers seems correlated to their invasive metastatic potential. MMPs thus seem attractive target for diagnostic therapeutic purposes. Several synthetic metalloproteinase inhibitors (MMPIs) currently being developed. Preclinical studies promising as they suggest inhibition several steps process. Marimastat first MMPI enter comparative phase III trials after early clinical established safety profile. Clinical will need be specifically designed optimally evaluate potential this novel cytostatic drugs. Safety should consider markedly different toxicity profile determine biologically active dosage, while efficacy performed selected settings with appropriate end-points. We review present achievements preclinical MMPIs, discuss specific considerations study design reflect on future prospects agents.