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Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) are a zinc- and calcium-dependent family of proteins that are collectively responsible for the degradation of the extracellular matrix tissues. MMP are involved in wound healing, angiogenesis, and tumor cell metastasis. An imbalance between the active enzymes and their natural inhibitors leads to the accelerated destruction of connective tissue, which is associated with the pathology of diseases such as arthritis, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and cardiovascular diseases.
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© 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg
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(2013). Matrix Metalloproteinases. In: Gebhart, G.F., Schmidt, R.F. (eds) Encyclopedia of Pain. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-28753-4_201218
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-28753-4_201218
Publisher Name: Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg
Print ISBN: 978-3-642-28752-7
Online ISBN: 978-3-642-28753-4
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