Matrix metalloproteases
MMP is the abbreviation for matrix metalloproteases and describes a group of more than 20 related enzymes that are found in almost all living organisms. In the human body, 23 matrix metalloproteases are known, they are designated with the gene names MMP 1 to MMP 28.
Matrix metalloproteases catalyse the cleavage of peptide bonds in proteins. In addition to the peptidase domain that binds the metal ion zinc, they also contain one or more vitronectin or haemopexin domains. They support the anchoring of the enzyme in the cell membrane or in the intracellular matrix. In addition, they always have a calcium-binding domain, which is responsible for activation. Matrix metalloproteases act more or less like a molecular blowtorch and dissolve the extracellular matrix in the process. With sometimes fatal consequences.
What matrix metalloproteases can do in the human body
Matrix metalloproteases take on a variety of physiological functions in the body’s own processes that are related to the formation of new basement membranes. Examples are wound healing, the fetal growth of skin and skin appendages, and angiogenesis. They are involved in numerous pathological processes in which an undesired degradation of basement membranes and the extracellular matrix occurs. The expression of matrix metalloproteases is significantly influenced by various inducers, inhibitors, or suppressors. These include primarily UVB radiation, but also tetracyclines, the tumour necrosis factor TNF, which can trigger cell death, heparin, and retinoids. Among other things, matrix metalloproteases are expressed on the surface of inflammatory cells, where they support, for example, lymphocytes, neutrophilic and eosinophilic granulocytes as well as histiocytes in migration in inflammatory processes. In carcinogenesis processes, the construction of tumourigenic blood vessels and the degradation of basement membranes are supported by matrix metalloproteases.
In drastic terms, it can thus be said that matrix metalloproteases are enzymes with the help of which malignant cancer cells metastasise. Or to put it in layman’s terms: the enzymes “digest” healthy connective tissue so that the cancer can spread more or less unhindered.
In the meantime, it is also known to medicine that a mutation of three specific matrix metalloproteases is a possible trigger for rare hereditary diseases. These are MMP-2 (Torg-Winchester syndrome), MMP-13 (two severe forms of dysplasia) and MMP-20 (defect in tooth enamel formation).
Basically, matrix metalloproteases are involved in the following pathological processes within dermatology:
– Scleroderma (hardening of the connective tissue of the skin)
– Lichen planus (skin disease with red and itchy nodules)
– Keloids (benign tumours arising from fused scar tissue)
– Wound healing
– Epidermolysis bullosa dystrophica inversa (genetic skin disease)
– Lipodermatosclerosis (inflammatory chronic reaction of the skin and subcutis)
– Ulcus cruris venosum (“open leg”)
– Basal cell carcinoma (most common form of skin cancer)
– Malignant melanoma (“black skin cancer”)
– Skin ageing under the influence of UV light
A reduced expression of the matrix metalloproteinases contributes to the increased storage of extracellular matrix proteins in the skin during fibrosis processes.
Some important representatives from the group of matrix metalloproteinases are
MMP-1
The enzyme is an interstitial collagenase that cleaves type I, II, III, VII and X collagens.
MMP-3
This particular type belongs to the group of stromelysins (stromelysin-1 / transin-1). Among other things, it damages the blood-spinal cord barrier, but increased expression of the matrix metalloprotease is also associated with cleft lip and palate.
MMP-9
This is a type B gelatinase. The enzyme cleaves gelatine of type I, V as well as collagens of type IV, V.
MMP-12
MMP-12 is a metalloelastase/macrophage elastase and is significantly involved in tissue remodelling processes. It is able to degrade extracellular matrix components such as elastin.
Both MMP-9 and MMP-12 appear to play a major role in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
We like to work with these MMP agents:
| Tradename | Supplier | INCI | Remark |
|---|---|---|---|
| SpecPed CIT AT30P | Spec-Chem Industry Inc | Acetyl Tripeptide-30 Citrulline | SpecPed® CIT AT30P is Acetyl Tripeptide-30 Citrulline, it is the reaction product of acetic acid and citrulline with Tripeptide-30. It's a type of anti-stretch mark peptide. Striae distensae, or stretch marks, are associated with continuous and progressive stretching of the skin. They are characterised by the stretching of the skin due to the enlargement of the underlying dermal tissue. Stretch marks are more visible on the breasts, abdomen, back, buttocks and thighs. Properties such as firming and restructuring the skin are necessary in any anti-stretch mark product. Acetyltripeptide-30 citrulline can effectively inhibit the activity of human matrix metalloproteinases and protect relevant tissues from degradation, promote the synthesis of collagen and elastin, promote wound healing, help rebuild extra cellular matrix components, relieve skin tension and reduce the formation of stretch marks. Therefore, SpecPed® CIT AT30P can be recommended for use in anti-stretch mark products. |
| Peptiskin | Solabia Group | Arginine , Arginine/Lysine Polypeptide | Peptiskin is a 40% dry extract solution of L-lysine and L-arginine oligopeptides obtained by a solvent-free enzymatic biotechnological synthesis process. This product is used as a triple action global anti-aging peptide. It helps stimulate the synthesis and deposition of structural components of the extracellular matrix. It also helps to inhibit anarchic collagen cross-linking and the release of metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1 collagenase). |
| Maitacure | The Garden of Naturalsolution Co., Ltd. | Grifola Frondosa Fruiting Body Extract | Maitacure is an excellent anti-aging ingredient derived from the Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa). Maitake mushroom is considered an adaptogen and is thought to promote wellbeing and vitality. Maitacure has strong anti-wrinkle activity by increasing collagen synthesis and inhibiting the mRNA expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1). It also has antioxidant activity and wound healing properties. In addition, Maitacure shows anti-dandruff efficacy by inhibiting the growth of Malassezia furfur (M. furfur). |
| SpecKare MBA | Spec-Chem Industry Inc | Maltobionic Acid | SpecKare MBA is a versatile botanical ingredient that provides simultaneous benefits as a moisturiser, antioxidant, pigment darkening agent and collagen preserver. It can act as a skin protection and anti-ageing agent by inhibiting matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), preserving collagen and protecting skin cells from oxidative stress and photodamage. It is also a superior humectant, able to retain moisture better than lactobionic acid and other traditional moisturisers. SpecKare® MBA is non-allergenic and non-irritating to human skin and is clinically safe for topical use, so formulations containing maltobionic acid can improve skin texture, firmness, clarity and tone. |
The use of innovative MMP inhibitors in cosmetics
To reduce the expression of matrix metalloproteases, special matrix metalloprotease inhibitors can be used. In medicine and also in dermatology and cosmetics, respectively, research and development of corresponding inhibitors has been going on for a long time. Cosmacon will be happy to show you the various possibilities of using matrix metalloprotease inhibitors in cosmetics. Please contact us.