Matrix Metalloproteinases and Periodontal Disease

The disease progression involves a network of interacting molecular pathways made of pro-inflammatory mediators like cytokines, growth factors, reactive oxygen species,matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and their inhibitors and regulators. Matrix macromolecules like proteoglycan and non- ollagen protein can be degraded by proteinases from the four major classes (metallo, serine, cysteine, and aspartic active site residues). Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are members of a large subfamily of Zn 2+ and Ca 2+ dependent proteolytic enzymes, playinganimportant role in periodontal destruction.