Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Blade-1 Region Peptides: Use as Cell Migration Modulators

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is an enzyme integrally involved in many normal physiological processes that require degradation and remodeling of the extracellular matrix, such as cell migration and invasion, wound repair, bone remodeling, angiogenesis, and embryonic growth. MMP-9 is shown to be involved in the progression of several diseases including many cancers, cardiovascular diseases, CNS diseases, respiratory diseases, and arthritis. In cancer, MMP-9 is thought to promote growth, migration, and spread of cancer cells by catalyzing the degradation of extracellular matrix proteins, releasing bound growth factors, and allowing cancer cells to escape from the primary tumor.


NIH inventors have discovered that specific polypeptides corresponding to Blade-1 region of MMP-9 hemopexin domain can stimulate migration of cells, specifically the migration of cells expressing beta1 integrin. The present technology can be used to develop novel therapeutic candidates for the prevention and treatment of human disease conditions mediated by MMP-9 promoted cell migration, e.g., cancer, inflammation, fibrotic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, CNS diseases, respiratory diseases, angiogenesis and arthritis. CRADA Opportunity: The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Cell Adhesion Group, is seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate, or commercialize this technology. Please contact Elizabeth M. Denholm, Ph.D. at 919-541-0981 or denholme@mail.nih.gov for more information.

Source: http://www.ott.nih.gov/Technologies/abstractDetails.aspx?RefNo=2145

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