Tumor necrosis factor-astimulated membrane type 1-matrix metalloproteinase production is modulated by epidermal growth factor receptor signaling in human gingival fibroblasts

Abstract

Membrane type 1-matrix metalloproteinase (MT1- MMP) is a collagenolytic enzyme involved in connective tissue remodeling. In periodontal tissues, either cytokines or growth factors regulate the production of proteolytic enzymes. Mice deficient in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) show a reduced expression of MT1-MMP, suggesting that this receptor may play an important role in MT1-MMP production. The present study evaluated the role of the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a) and EGFR in the production of MT1-MMP in gingival fibroblasts.