Chapter Seven - Matrix Metalloproteinases in Biologic Samples
Section snippets
Regulation of MMPs
In any experiment analyzing MMPs within biological specimens, it is important to understand the key mechanisms influencing the expression and activity of these proteinases. Because of their potentially potent physiological and pathogenic functions, MMPs are tightly regulated at the transcriptional, posttranscriptional, and posttranslational levels. In addition, protein activity is influenced by activators, inhibitors, and specific tissue-binding characteristics.
Detection of MMPs in Biological Samples, Total Zymogen Versus Enzymatic Activity
When considering the assessment of MMPs within a biological sample, it is important to consider which aspect of MMP expression (total zymogen, prodomain cleaved, TIMP-bound, or endogenously active) is most biologically relevant to the research question being investigated. This is an important determinant, as direct measurement of MMP protein will not distinguish active from inactive enzyme. At this point, it is probably worth clarifying some of the terminology used regarding the various
Confounders of MMP Measurements
A number of variables have been implicated as confounders of circulating MMP levels, including age [64], gender, white cell count [65], and certain medications [66], [67], [68]. Altered MMP expression has also been implicated in a wide range of pathophysiological conditions including obesity [69], cancer [70], [71], liver fibrosis [72], rheumatoid arthritis [73], heart disease [65], [74], [75], [76], and peripheral vascular disease [77].
Controversy exists regarding several preanalytical aspects
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