Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are proteolytic enzymes believed to be involved in many physiological and pathological processes associated with inflammatory reactions. MMP synthesis and functions are regulated by three major mechanisms including transcriptional activation, post-transcriptional processing, and control of activity by tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Many cell types have been identified as producers of MMPs and TIMPs in a context of inflammatory processes. MMPs are involved in numerous inflammatory diseases, including respiratory, cardiovascular and central nervous system pathologies.

This volume presents new advances in the involvement of MMPs in various diseases associated with inflammatory processes. Moreover, the recent development of selective and non selective inhibitors of MMPs provides new insights in the relationship between activation of inflammatory cells and tissue remodelling and advises new therapeutic possibilities for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Inhalt
The role of MMPs in the inflammatory process of acute lung injury.- Matrix metalloproteinases in airways inflammation of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.- Role of matrix metalloproteases in pulmonary fibrosis.- Anti-inflammatory properties of MMP inhibitors in experimental models of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung inflammation.- Role of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in cystic fibrosis.- MMPs, inflammation and pulmonary arterial hypertension.- MMP roles in the initiation and progression of cardiac remodeling leading to congestive heart failure.- Matrix metalloproteinases and inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system.- Extracellular matrix remodelling and matrix metalloproteinases in the liver.