Roles of matrix metalloproteinase in migration and differentiation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells / 生物医学工程学杂志

ABSTRACT

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are endocellular proteolytic enzymes. They are so named because they need Ca2+, Zn2+ and other metal ions as their cofactors. MMPs play an important biological role in regulating the formation, remodeling and degradation of extracellular matrix and participate in various physiological and pathological processes of cells. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are a kind of pluripotent stem cell which has the ability to self-renew and differentiate into functional cells. Meanwhile, they can respond to the damage signals and migrate to injured site for tissue repair and regeneration. MMPs and their inhibitors TIMPs affect the differentiation and migration of BMSCs. This article reviews the roles of MMPs in differentiation and migration of BMSCs.