Inhibition of Metastases
Uncontrolled tumor growth results in the tumor breaking through its natural boundary, invading adjacent tissue, the extracellular matrix. Specific enzymes like matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) help to open the protective layer of the tissue, enabling tumor cells to reach other compartments of the body via blood and lymph fluid, resulting in the development of metastases.
In initial studies, scientists are trying to find active substances that are able to inhibit these matrix metalloproteinases.