Role of matrix metalloproteinases in development of diabetic nephropathy

This review considers molecular mechanisms that underlie disorders in the s tructure and metabolism of renal extracellular matrix in diabetic nephropat hy. The contribution of the increased synthesis of renal extracellular matr ix proteins in the accumulation of renal mesangial matrix is considered, an d the important role of the degradation system of the extracellular matrix proteins in the development of fibrosis is also shown. Data on changes in m RNA expression for the matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and tissue inhibitor s of metalloproteinases (TIMP) in various forms of diabetic nephropathy are presented. A correlation is established between changes in the balance of MMP proteolytic activity and TIMP activity and the accumulation of extracel lular matrix.