Matrix metalloproteinases are proteolytic zinc-dependent enzymes that play
a pivotal function in cell migration, proliferation, differentiation, programmed cell
death, and other physiological processes. Recent studies demonstrated that the
imbalance activation and inhibition of these enzymes resulted in unexpected
physiological and pathological processes. Thus, it fueled the interest in matrix
metalloproteinase and its inhibitors in medicinal and pharmaceutical chemists. This
chapter discusses the therapeutic accomplishments of matrix metalloproteinase
inhibitors in arthritis, autoimmune disease, inflammations, cancer, and cardiovascular
disease. Further, the chapter discusses clinical trial implications, obstacles, and future
research.
Keywords: Arthritis, Autoimmune disease, Classifications, Cancer,
Cardiovascular disease, Clinical implications, Endogenous tissue inhibitors,
Exogenous inhibitors, Functional roles, Inflammations, Matrix metalloproteinase,
Matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors, Mechanism, Obstacles, Therapeutic
accomplishments.
