Title:Phyto-derived Products as Matrix Metalloproteinases Inhibitors in Cardiovascular Diseases

VOLUME: 17 ISSUE: 1

Author(s):Alejandro F. do Prado, Cahy M. Bannwart, Victoria M.T. Shinkai, Ildercílio M. de Souza Lima and César A. Meschiari*

Affiliation:Structural Biology Laboratory, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Structural Biology Laboratory, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Molecular and Cellular Neurochemistry Laboratory, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Health and Sports Science Center, Federal University of Acre, Rio Branco, AC, Health and Sports Science Center, Federal University of Acre, Rio Branco, AC

Keywords:Matrix metalloproteinase, phytotherapy, matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor, flavonoid, cardiovascular disease, extracellular matrix, phyto-derived products.

Abstract:Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes that present a metallic element in their structure. These enzymes are ubiquitously distributed and function as extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelers. MMPs play a broad role in cardiovascular biology regulating processes such as cell adhesion and function, cellular communication and differentiation, integration of mechanical force and force transmission, tissue remodeling, modulation of damaged-tissue structural integrity, cellular survival or apoptosis and regulation of inflammation-related cytokines and growth factors. MMPs inhibition and downregulation are correlated with minimization of cardiac damage, i.e., Chinese herbal medicine has shown to stabilize abdominal aorta aneurysm due to its antiinflammatory, antioxidant and MMP-2 and 9 inhibitory properties. Thus phyto-derived products rise as promising sources for novel therapies focusing on MMPs inhibition and downregulation to treat or prevent cardiovascular disorders.