Dear Colleagues,

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play an important role in tissue remodeling during various physiological processes, such as embryogenesis, morphogenesis, angiogenesis, and wound repair. There are other metalloproteinases linked to MMPs, such as members of the families A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase (ADAM) and A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS), that work within the extracellular matrix (ECM).

Metalloproteinases are inhibited by tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs), which are endogenous protein regulators of the ECM.

When the expression of metalloproteinases is altered, it can generate the abnormal degradation of the ECM. This is the initial cause of the development of chronic degenerative diseases such as cardiovascular disease, chronic wounds, cancer, and inflammatory disorders. The exact physiological and biological mechanism of metalloproteinases and the details of their clinical implication and regulation by other molecules are not completely known. Therefore, this Special Issue welcomes original and review articles that can improve our understanding of these issues.

Prof. Dr. Raffaele Serra

Guest Editor