Roles of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in SM-induced pathologies

Abstract

Dysregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) is now considered as one of the main toxicity effects of sulfur mustard (SM). Numerous studies have found overexpression of MMPs, but the mechanism is unclear. Accumulation of leukocytes, downregulation of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), increase of pro-inflammatory mediators, as well as massive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress (OS) are possible mechanisms by which SM induces MMPs expression long-years after exposure. We aim to discuss cellular and molecular mechanisms of SM toxicity, the importance of MMPs and mechanisms by which SM enhances expression of these proteases in SM-victims.

Keywords:

• Sulfur mustard
• metalloproteinases
• oxidative stress
• reactive oxygen species
• inflammatory cytokines

Acknowledgements

We are deeply indebted to past and present collaborators.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.