Abstract
Extracellular proteolysis is an absolute requirement for new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis). This review examines the role of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and plasminogen activator (PA)-plasmin systems during angiogenesis. Specifically, a role for gelatinases (MMP-2, MMP-9), membrane-type 1 MMP (MMP-14), the urokinase-type PA receptor, and PA inhibitor 1 has been clearly defined in a number of model systems. The MMP and PA-plasmin systems have also been implicated in experimental vascular tumor formation, and their role during this process will be examined. Antiproteolysis, particularly in the context of angiogenesis, has become a key target in therapeutic strategies aimed at inhibiting tumor growth and other diseases associated with neovascularization.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Extracellular Matrix / metabolism
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Fibrinolysin / physiology*
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Fibrinolysis
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Matrix Metalloproteinases / physiology*
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Matrix Metalloproteinases, Membrane-Associated
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Metalloendopeptidases / physiology
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Neoplasms / blood supply
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Neovascularization, Pathologic*
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Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1 / physiology
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Plasminogen Activators / physiology*
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Receptors, Cell Surface / physiology
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Receptors, Urokinase Plasminogen Activator
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Tissue Plasminogen Activator / physiology
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Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator / physiology
Substances
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Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1
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Receptors, Cell Surface
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Receptors, Urokinase Plasminogen Activator
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Plasminogen Activators
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Tissue Plasminogen Activator
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Fibrinolysin
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Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator
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Matrix Metalloproteinases
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Matrix Metalloproteinases, Membrane-Associated
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Metalloendopeptidases