Roles of matrix metalloproteinases in the cornea: A special focus on macular corneal dystrophy

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are endopeptidases that are responsible for the degradation of several components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and some non-ECM proteins. MMPs are subdivided into 6 groups according to their structure and substrate specificity: collagenases, gelatinases, membrane-type MMPs, stromelysins, and matrilizines. Collagenases are important proteolytic tools during ECM remodeling, tissue regeneration, and organ development. MMPs, especially collagenases, have important roles in ocular processes such as retinal neurogenesis and corneal wound healing. MMP studies on eye research are limited, but there is growing evidence that MMP physiology is key for the ocular system, especially for the cornea. The cornea is predominantly composed of collagen fibrils, which form uniform lamellar lattices. Collagenase-driven ECM remodeling is essential for the cornea. Macular corneal dystrophy (MCD) is a rare inherited disease and characterized by progressive, insoluble accumulation of irregular substances in the corneal ECM. MCD can cause visual acuity loss up to blindness, and there is currently no treatment available. It has been recently reported that certain collagenases are downregulated in MCD disease progression. Here, we review the roles of MMPs in eye diseases and propose possible treatment strategies for MCD

Repositioning of Metformin: Anticancer Agent for Hypoxic Neuroblastoma Cells

Objectives:Neuroblastoma is an extracranial solid tumor of early childhood that has a hypoxic environment. VEGF and HIFs molecules play a role in adaptation to this microenvironment. Hypoxic microenvironment leads to poor prognosis and inadequate treatment of neuroblastoma. Metformin has been shown to inhibit tumor growth, might be a potential chemotherapeutic agent. The anti-cancer activity of Metformin on SH-SY5Y cells are not fully elucidated. The aim of this study is to determine the anti-cancer effect of Metformin on SH-SY5Y cells and to elucidate its molecular action mechanism in hypoxia/normoxia

A Promising, Novel Radiosensitizer Nanodrug Complex for Oral Cavity Cancer: Cetuximab and Cisplatin-Conjugated Gold Nanoparticles

Background: Nanomedicine has provided promising tools for the imaging, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) may be useful in enhancing the efficacy of radiotherapy, such as radiosensitization, in cancer therapy