Membrane associated matrix metalloproteinases in metastasis.

Abstract

Hematogenous metastasis is postulated to involve tumor cell-initiated degradation of basement membrane barriers and underlying connective tissue matrices. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) are zinc-dependent endopeptidases that have been implicated in the proteolytic events of tumor cell invasion. Research has revealed a class of membrane-anchored metalloproteinases (MT-MMPs) and has provided convincing evidence that these enzymes activate latent MMP-2 (72 kDa gelatinase A) on the cell surface. The activation of plasma membrane associated MMP is a potential mechanism for facilitation of cellular metastasis and requires consideration when addressing potential roles of MMPs in tumor progression. This review focuses on potential in vivo regulatory mechanisms of membrane-associated MMP activity in the context of tumor cell interaction with matrix macromolecules. BioEssays 1999;21:940-949.

• Authors: S M Ellerbroek, M S Stack
• Journal: BioEssays : news and reviews in molecular, cellular and developmental biology (Bioessays) Vol. 21 Issue 11 Pg. 940-9 (Nov 1999) ISSN: 0265-9247 [Print] United States
• PMID: 10517867 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S., Review)
• Copyright: Copyright 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Chemical References

• Metalloendopeptidases
• Matrix Metalloproteinase 2

Topics

• Basement Membrane (metabolism)
• Cell Membrane (enzymology)
• Connective Tissue (metabolism)
• Enzyme Activation
• Extracellular Matrix (metabolism)
• Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
• Humans
• Matrix Metalloproteinase 2 (metabolism)
• Metalloendopeptidases (chemistry)
• Neoplasm Metastasis