Matrix Metalloproteinases in Dental and Periodontal Tissues and Their Current Inhibitors: Developmental, Degradational and Pathological Aspects

Objectives: This review article aims to describe some of the roles of Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in enamel, dentine, dental caries, hybrid layer degradation, pulp and periodontal tissues, throwing light on their current inhibitors. The article addresses the potential of MMPs to serve as biomarkers with diagnostic and therapeutic value. Design: The sections of this review discuss MMPs' involvement in developmental, remodeling, degradational and turnover aspects of dental and periodontal tissues as well as their signals in the pathogenesis, progress of different lesions and wound healing of these tissues. The literature was searched for original research articles, review articles and theses. The literature search was conducted in PubMed and MEDLINE for articles published in the last 20 years. Results: 119 published papers, two textbooks and two doctoral theses were selected for preparing the current review. Conclusions: MMPs are significant proteases, of evident contribution in dental and periapical tissue development, health and disease processes, with promising potential for use as diagnostic and prognostic disease biomarkers. Continuing understanding of their role in pathogenesis and progress of different dental, periapical and periodontal lesions, as well as in dentine-pulp wound healing could be a keystone to future diagnostic and therapeutic regimens.

Automated summary

This review article discusses the roles of Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in dental and periodontal tissues, as well as their potential as biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment. The article provides insights into the involvement of MMPs in development, remodeling, degradation, and turnover of dental and periodontal tissues, and their signals in the pathogenesis and wound healing. The review identified 119 published papers, two textbooks, and two doctoral theses as the basis for the discussion. MMPs are seen as significant proteases with potential diagnostic and prognostic value. Understanding their role in dental and periodontal lesions and dentine-pulp wound healing is crucial for future diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.