Matrix metalloproteinases and their specific tissue inhibitors in menstruation

in Reproduction
Authors:
JC Dong
Search for other papers by JC Dong in
Current site
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
H Dong
Search for other papers by H Dong in
Current site
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
A Campana
Search for other papers by A Campana in
Current site
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
P Bischof
Search for other papers by P Bischof in
Current site
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
Free access

Sign up for journal news

The timely breakdown of extracellular matrix is essential for menstruation. Matrix metalloproteinases, which are able to degrade virtually all components of the extracellular matrix, are spatiotemporally expressed in the cyclic endometrium. The expression of most matrix metalloproteinases is regulated transcriptionally and their proteolytic activities are precisely controlled. The balance between matrix metalloproteinases and their specific tissue inhibitors is believed to be crucial for menstruation. This review focuses on the roles of matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors in the initiation of menstruation and on the regulation of matrix metalloproteinase expression and activation. For example, the function of matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors in endometrial re-epithelialization and angiogenesis during endometrial regeneration, when cell migration is facilitated to ensure endometrial repair, is discussed. This and other processes, although not fully resolved, serve to illustrate the involvement of matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors in the process of menstruation.

 

  • Collapse
  • Expand