Matrix metalloproteinases and their role in pathogenesis of cardio-vascular diseases

This review introduces matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) that are belonged to the zinc metalloprotease family. The main function of these multi-domain proteins has been considered to be the degradation and removal of extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules from the supporting tissues. The paper gives a modern classification of MMP, their structure and some description of the members of the MMP family. The article shows quantitative changes of MMP and their endogenous inhibitors (TIMP) in response to varies cardio-vascular diseases.