Recent advances in understanding the roles of matrix metalloproteinases in tumour invasion and metastasis

This review aims to provide an overview of recent developments regarding the roles of matrix metalloproteinases in tumour invasion and metastasis. Much of the mortality burden belonging to cancer relates to its ability to invade adjacent tissue and form metastases at distant sites. This would not be possible without remodelling the extracellular matrix, a process which is enabled by the functions of matrix metalloproteinases. Recent studies provide a better understanding of the importance of the biophysical nature of the extracellular matrix, how this influences cancer cell motility, and how MMPs act to modify matrix stiffness. The regulation of matrix metalloproteinases and the role of immune cell generated matrix metalloproteinases has also become better understood. All of this provides a framework for the therapeutic targeting of matrix metalloproteinases and recent advances in the development of selective matrix metalloproteinases inhibitors are also reviewed.