[Roles of matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) in cancer invasion and metastasis].

During the progression of cancer invasion and metastasis, remodeling such as degradation of extracellular matrices (ECM) in cancer tissues and surrounding tissues is the most important event. Degradation of ECM modulates cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, and this changes cell behavior and the cell microenvironment. This review considers the cellular and organismal function of matrix metalloproteinases, especially of membrane-type matrix metalloproteinases, and their inhibitor, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP).