Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of zinc-dependent extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling endopeptidases that have the capacity to degrade almost every component of the ECM. The degradation of the ECM is of great importance, since it is related to embryonic development and angiogenesis. It is also involved in cell repair and the remodeling of tissues. When the expression of MMPs is altered, it can generate the abnormal degradation of the ECM. This is the initial cause of the development of chronic degenerative diseases and vascular complications generated by diabetes. In addition, this process has an association with neurodegeneration and cancer progression. Within the ECM, the tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs) inhibit the proteolytic activity of MMPs. TIMPs are important regulators of ECM turnover, tissue remodeling, and cellular behavior. Therefore, TIMPs (similar to MMPs) modulate angiogenesis, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. An interruption in the balance between MMPs and TIMPs has been implicated in the pathophysiology and progression of several diseases. This review focuses on the participation of both MMPs (e.g., MMP-2 and MMP-9) and TIMPs (e.g., TIMP-1 and TIMP-3) in physiological processes and on how their abnormal regulation is associated with human diseases. The inclusion of current strategies and mechanisms of MMP inhibition in the development of new therapies targeting MMPs was also considered.

There is a growing interest in using virus-like particles (VLPs) as scaffolds for the presentation of antigens of choice to the immune system. In this work, VLPs from papaya ringspot virus capsid protein expressed in Escherichia coli were evaluated as enhancers of antibody response against a soluble antigen. Interestingly, although the capsid protein lacks a histidine tag, its purification by immobilized metal affinity chromatography was achieved. The formation of VLPs was demonstrated by electron microscopy for the first time for this capsid protein. VLPs were enriched by polyethylene glycol precipitation. Additionally, these VLPs were chemically coupled to green fluorescent protein in order to evaluate them as antigen carriers; however, bioconjugate instability was observed. Nonetheless, the adjuvant effect of these VLPs on BALB/c mice was evaluated, using GFP as antigen, resulting in a significant increase in anti-GFP IgG response, particularly, IgG1 class, demonstrating that the VLPs enhance the immune response against the antigen chosen in this study.

No abstract