Connective Tissue Remodeling: Cross-Talk between Endothelins and Matrix Metalloproteinases

Title: Connective Tissue Remodeling: Cross-Talk between Endothelins and Matrix Metalloproteinases

Volume: 3 Issue: 4

Author(s): David Abraham, Markella Ponticos and Hideaki Nagase

Affiliation:

Keywords: endothelin, matrix metalloproteinases, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases, connective tissue remodelling, extracellular matrix, scarring, fibrosis

Abstract: Connective tissue remodeling is achieved by a complex process involving several cell types, a plethora of growth factors, cytokines, chemokines and turnover of extracellular matrix (ECM). The main enzymes that degrade ECM molecules are matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their activities are regulated by endogenous inhibitors, the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Recent studies have indicated that endothelins and their receptor expression affects tissue remodeling and repair. Endothelins are rapidly produced by endothelial cells in response to tissue injury and they have potent vasoconstrictive properties. They also promote tissue remodeling through activation of resident connective tissue cells and controlling the production of MMPs and TIMPs by the activated cells. In this review we present the cross-talk between the endothelins and the MMP-TIMP system and their implications in controlling the normal and abnormal tissue remodeling.

Cite this article as:

Abraham David, Ponticos Markella and Nagase Hideaki, Connective Tissue Remodeling: Cross-Talk between Endothelins and Matrix Metalloproteinases, Current Vascular Pharmacology 2005; 3 (4) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/157016105774329480