MMP7 cleaves remyelination-impairing fibronectin aggregates and its expression is reduced in chronic multiple sclerosis lesions.

ABSTRACT: Upon demyelination, transient expression of fibronectin precedes successful remyelination. However, in chronic demyelination observed in multiple sclerosis (MS), aggregates of fibronectin persist and contribute to remyelination failure. Accordingly, removing fibronectin (aggregates) would constitute an effective strategy for promoting remyelination. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes known to remodel extracellular matrix components, including fibronectin. Here, we examined the ability of MMPs to degrade fibronectin aggregates. Our findings reveal that MMP7 cleaved fibronectin aggregates resulting into a prominent 13 kDa EIIIA (16 kDa EDA)-containing fragment. MMP7 was upregulated during lysolecithin-induced demyelination, indicating its potential for endogenous fibronectin cleara

SUBMITTER: Wang P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6099312 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature