Moving targets: Emerging roles for MMPs in cancer progression and metastasis

Matrix Biol. 2015 May-Jul:44-46:200-6. doi: 10.1016/j.matbio.2015.01.019. Epub 2015 Jan 31.

Abstract

Matrix metalloproteinases have long been associated with cancer. Clinical trials of small molecule inhibitors for this family of enzymes however, were spectacularly unsuccessful in a variety of tumor types. Here, we discuss some of the newer roles that have been uncovered for MMPs in cancer that would not have been targeted with those initial inhibitors or in the patient populations analyzed. We also consider novel ways of using cancer-associated MMP activity for clinical benefit.

Keywords: Activity-based probe; Efficacy; Imaging; Non-catalytic; Pre-metastatic niche; Theranostic; Therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Humans
  • Matrix Metalloproteinases / drug effects
  • Matrix Metalloproteinases / metabolism*
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms / enzymology
  • Neoplasms / pathology*

Substances

  • Matrix Metalloproteinases