Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are proteinases capable of degrading components of the extracellular matrix and numerous nonmatrix proteins. MMPs along with tissue inhibitors of MMPs, have been implicated in the pathogenesis of liver diseases. Although, the precise mechanism-of-actions of MMPs in various liver related disorders is largely unknown, however, data from diverse experimental models indicate that these proteinases influence cellular activities including proliferation and survival, gene expression, as well as multiple aspects of inflammation. Hence, MMP's are likely key players in the outcomes related to liver disease.
Keywords: Col, collagen; ECM, extra cellular matrix; GBD, global burden of disease; HCC, hepato-cellular carcinoma; IRI, ischemia and reperfusion injury; MMP, matrix metalloproteases; NAFLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease; NFkB, nuclear factor kappa-B; TIMPs, tissue inhibitors of MMPs; TNF, tumor necrosis factor; cirrhosis; extracellular matrix (ECM); hepatocellular carcinoma; liver fibrosis; matrix metalloproteinases.