Fig. 10

Compartmentalisation of matrix metalloproteinase function leading to its specific action on specific substrates. Final availability of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) for degradation of collagen fibres depends on the balance between its availability, reactivity to specific substrate and its abundance over its inhibitor TIMP (tissue inhibitors of matirix metalloproteinases). There are more than thirty MMPs with different substrate specificities and more than one TIMP to inhibit its activity. The enzyme is synthesised from its gene in response to various complete transcription factors and cellular stress. Translation happens through Pro MMP, specific proteolysis and activation by activation or release from its binding proteins. MMPs may be secreted or remain on the cell membrane for localisation of its action