Metalloproteinases and eye diseases

Abstract

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are endopeptidases involved in many physiological and physical processes. They synthesize and secrete numerous cytokines, growth factors, hormone receptors and cell adhesion molecules. The use of metalloproteinase inhibitors has been surmised in the treatment of important diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases and various types of inflammatory diseases. With regard to the eyes, metalloproteinases and their inhibitors are implicated in the pathogenesis of diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, primary open-angle glaucoma, pseudoexfoliative glaucoma, corneal neovascularization and ulcerations (viral and bacterial), superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis, and climatic droplet keratopathy (CDK); they are secreted by the cells of the trabecular meshwork and their secretion increases after trabeculectomy surgery. They also take part in causing damage in the case of dry eye disease, pterygium, choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).