Are matrix metalloproteinases the missing link?

Abstract

It is more and more evident that the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) system is not a characteristic
feature of vertebrate animals only, as it can also be found in many invertebrate organisms. This
endopeptidase family has been widely studied since its first member was described 40 years ago
during metamorphosis in tadpole tails. Many researches have been carried out in mammals in order to elucidate and analyze the several and important roles these endopeptidases play, both in
physiological pathways and in pathological processes. The evolving researches of these multifaceted
enzymes enter the very interesting and fascinating world of the invertebrates, where these enzymes seem to be in the front line during important biological events. MMP-like enzymes and their inhibitors
have been found in insects, crustaceans, mussels, sea urchins and also in organisms as simple as
hydra. In these species MMPs partake in several fundamental processes, such as extracellular matrix
(ECM) remodelling, embryonic development, cell growth and differentiation and also in defense
mechanisms thus highlightening their intriguing and unexpected functional importance in invertebrate life too.