Metalloproteinases in nervous system function and pathology: introduction.

This multi-author review in CMLS includes ten articles that provide an update of current knowledge on the role of metalloproteinases in the physiology and pathology of the central nervous system. The collection covers a wide range of situations in which matrix metalloproteinases, adamalysins and meprins are regulated and in turn regulate substrates or signalling pathways involved in: nervous system development, learning and memory, neuroinflammation, degeneration and repair after traumatic and ischemic injury or neurodegenerative mechanisms underlying retinopathies, psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. The authors also argue that these proteinases can be considered in some cases as biomarkers or potential therapeutic targets for diseases of the nervous system. Overall, metalloproteinases are placed among the key factors that can help us better understand the cellular and molecular processes that govern neuropathophysiology and implement the strategies that result from this knowledge to open up much-needed treatment opportunities.