[The role of matrix metalloproteinases in venous leg ulcers development].

Venous leg ulcers are one of the most serious therapeutic and economic problems of current medicine. In spite of the rapid progress in the diagnostics of venous disorders, the pathogenesis of venous leg ulcers remains unclear. Current medicine describes many theories that try to explain the patophysiology of venous ulceration. Recent studies have revealed the role of extracellular matrix degradation processes in venous leg ulcers. The family of enzymes classified as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play the leading role in these processes. The extensive knowledge of MMPs and the role played by them in venous leg ulcers and wound healing may result in development of the new methods of management with many vascular disorders.