Matrix Metalloproteinases in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: An Update

Figure 3

MMPs in colitis associated cancer. A summary of the reported involvement of MMPs in colitis associated cancer (CAC) including the dual roles of MMP-9 where it increases apoptosis and cell cycle arrest through notch cleavage and activation of p53 but also promotes tumour growth, partially through activation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). MMP-7 is upregulated in UC associated dysplasia and MMP-2 and -3 have also been reported to increase tumour growth. MMP-10 from macrophages is believed to inhibit colitis associated cancer based on a knock-out mouse study.