Phosphonate emerging zinc binding group in matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors
Tuesday, March 15, 2016 - 10:30
in Biology & Nature
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc-dependent endopeptidases, responsible for the degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Their involvement has been demonstrated in several diseases, among which chronic inflammation and cancer; therefore, they have been considered interesting therapeutic targets. The design of MMP inhibitors (MMPIs) has largely focused on development of various compounds containing a zinc binding group (ZBG) in their structure, with the hydroxamate being the most potent one.