Matrix Metalloproteinases in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: An Update

Figure 2

Recently described functions for MMPs in IBD. A summary of some of the roles of MMPs in IBD is shown including regulation of epithelial barrier through MUC2 expression and activation of immune response through cleavage of procryptdins, chemokines, and cytokines. MMPs also have a role to play in angiogenesis through allowing migration of endothelial cells and alteration of VEGF but also release of endostatin and angiostatin. MUC2 (mucin 2), KC (CXCL1), MIP-2 (macrophage inflammatory protein 2), ZO-1 (zona occludens protein 1), VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), and PGP (proline-glycine-proline).