[Role of the matrix metalloproteinases activity in inflammatory bowel disease]. / Rola aktywnosci metaloproteinaz w nieswoistych zapaleniach jelit.

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of proteolytic enzymes participating in the metabolism of connective tissue. Imbalance between synthesis and degradation of MMPs can lead to pathological enhancement of synthetic or destructive processes causing ulceration or tissue fibrosis. The results of recent studies have been suggesting that inflammatory bowel disease may be accompanied by elevated levels of MMPs.