[…] Non-genetic MMP-2 insufficiency is a relatively unexplored condition which could be induced by pathological overexpression of endogenous MMP-2 inhibitors such as TIMPs and/or the acute phase reactant alpha-2-macroglobulin. Here, we investigate the hypothesis that human fibrinogen (FBG) – an acute phase reactant – inhibits human MMP-2.
What is fibrinogen (FBG)?
Similar to alpha-2-macroglobulin, fibrinogen (FBG) is another positive acute-phase reactant in the circulation, where its concentration can increase by up to 10 folds in response to inflammatory stimuli 24.
Does FBG inhibit fluorescein-conjugation?
Moreover, at normal physiological concentrations, FBG (5.29–11.8 μM) concentration-dependently inhibited (40–70% inhibition) the cleavage of fluorescein-conjugated gelatin by MMP-2, but not MMP-9.
Is FBG a natural selective MMP-2 inhibitor?
In conclusion, FBG is a natural selective MMP-2 inhibitor, whose pathological elevation could lead to MMP-2 insufficiency in humans.
