The Role of Metalloproteinases in the Pathogenesis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

作者：Piesiak Pawel^*; Kraus Filarska Maria; Kosacka Monika; Passowicz Muszynska Ewa

来源：Advances in Clinical and Experimental Medicine, 2009, 18(3): 303-309.

• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• extracellular matrix
• metalloproteinases
• tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a tobacco-related lung disease with an excessive and persistent inflammatory response. There is much evidence that the alterations within the extracellular matrix (ECM) evoked by connective tissue cell dysfunctions play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of COPD. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are believed to play a crucial role in the degradation of almost all extracellular matrix protein components. This effect may be responsible for the complete destruction of the alveolar walls and the formation of abnormal spaces evolving into larger bullae. Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) regulate the synthesis, secretion, and activity of MMPs. The decreased secretion of TIMPs in COPD patients can favor increased elastolysis in the lung. The causes of the imbalance between MMPs and TIMPs in COPD are yet not clear. The development of new COPD therapies directed against specific MMPs and TIMPs should be the target of future research (Adv Clin Exp Med 2009, 18, 3, 303-309).

• 出版日期2009