Abstract
Over the past three decades, numerous studies have shown a strong connection between matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) levels and myocardial infarction (MI) mortality and left ventricle remodeling and dysfunction. Despite this fact, clinical trials using MMP-9 inhibitors have been disappointing. This review focuses on the roles of MMP-9 in MI wound healing. Infiltrating leukocytes, cardiomyocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells secrete MMP-9 during all phases of cardiac repair. MMP-9 both exacerbates the inflammatory response and aids in inflammation resolution by stimulating the pro-inflammatory to reparative cell transition. In addition, MMP-9 has a dual effect on neovascularization and prevents an overly stiff scar. Here, we review the complex role of MMP-9 in cardiac wound healing, and highlight the importance of targeting MMP-9 only for its detrimental actions. Therefore, delineating signaling pathways downstream of MMP-9 is critical.
Original language | English (US) |
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Article number | 491 |
Journal | Biomolecules |
Volume | 11 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 2021 |
Keywords
- Extracellular matrix
- Inflammation
- Macrophage
- Matrix metalloproteinases
- Neutrophil
- Remodeling
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology