Description
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc-dependent endopeptidases, responsible for the integrity of the basement membrane (BM) via degradation of extracellular matrix and BM components. MMPs are presented in various types of cells, including cardiomyocytes, cerebral neurons, hepatocytes, and many others, thus influencing various processes. MMP-3, also called stromelysin 1, is reported to be found in the cytosol of dopaminergic cells where its activation under stress conditions contributes to neuronal degradation. In chondrocytes, nuclear MMP-3 is suggested to be involved in the development of inflammatory arthritic diseases. Matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) is implicated in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, and the MMP-3 −1612 5A/6A polymorphism is associated with myocardial infarction (MI) and stable coronary artery disease (CAD)