The role of microRNAs regulating the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in breast cancer development, progression, and metastasis

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate several biological and physiological processes in mammalian cells, including cellular proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and metabolism. Recent studies have confirmed the alteration of them during the cancer development. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), belonging to the large family of proteases, have also been demonstrated to play crucial roles in tissue remodeling, and to support cancer progression and metastasis. There are several known miRNAs which regulate the MMP family and their expression. The expression profiles of miRNAs involved in MMP regulation, change during cancer progression, and metastasis. The present review focuses on important miRNAs capable of targeting MMPs through direct and indirect interactions during the breast cancer development, progression, and metastasis.