Matrix metalloproteinases: relationship with cytokines system, diagnostic and prognostic potential

This review presents biological properties of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), their classification and synthesis regulation by cytokines and MMPs tissue inhibitors. We analyzed researches, describing the role of MMPs in physiological and pathological processes. MMPs involvement into pathogenesis of aging, diseases of skin, joints, parodontium, open angle glaucoma, cardiovascular diseases, pulmonary diseases and malignancies, was proved. The role of MMPs and MMPs tissue inhibitors defection was demonstrated in fibrosis formation of liver, kidney and thyroid. Examination of cytokines and MMPs during different diseases may be the key method of diagnostic, treatment efficacy and prognosis assessment, and also key method for new treatments development.