Extracellular matrix remodeling by matrix metalloproteinase and age-related pathologies

Abstract

The extracellular matrix (ECM) not only functions as a physical scaffold for cells, but is also an essential component for tissue morphogenesis, differentiation, and homeostasis maintenance. Matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) function to maintain tissue homeostasis by degrading ECM proteins. In particular, in the skin, MMP contribute to ECM remodeling and angiogenesis during the wound healing process. The role of MMP in the cell invasion process of cancer cells has led to the development of MMP inhibitors, and the pathophysiology of MMP has also been actively studied. Recently, the mechanism by which senescence-associated secretory phonotype (SASP) factors, which are characteristically secreted by senescent cells, cause chronic inflammation and how a small number of senescent cells can have systemic effects has also attracted attention. SASP contains many MMP groups, and the role of MMPs in the aging process has been reconfirmed. In this review, we will provide an overview of aging and aging-related pathologies from the perspective of MMPs, and will also introduce the contribution of MMPs to the skin and various tissue aging in aging model mice that the authors are analyzing.