Inhibition of production and action of tissue metalloproteinases.

There is strong evidence that a family of MPs involved in the resorption of the matrices of connective tissues. These proteinases seem to be induced by specific stimuli whereas cells and tissues normally produce a specific inhibitor, TIMP. In many experimental situation there is good evidence that increased resorption is correlated with an imbalance of TIMP over active MPs. Current research is aimed at finding better compounds than corticosteroids to increase the balance of TIMP over MPs.