Matrix Metalloproteinases And Their Inhibitors. The Role In The Development Of Diabetic Microangiopathy

Microangiopathy is the chronic diabetic complication. It is associated with disorders in small blood vessels - diameter less than 100 mu m. The most important clinical changes occur in the retina (retinopathy), kidneys (nephropathy), nervous system (neuropathy) and in the heart (cardiomyopathy). These changes are primarily connected with smooth muscle cells proliferation, extracellular matrix expansion and thickening of the intima. It is thought that their development is due to disturbances in the matrix metalloproteinases system. Consequently, the role of these enzymes in the development of diabetic complications has been the subject of intensive research. This report summarizes the contribution of metalloproteinases to diabetic microangiopathy.