Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 as an Important Contributor to the Pathophysiology of Depression
Hongmin Li, Zhao‐Fu Sheng, Suliman Khan, Ruiyi Zhang, Yang Liu, Yan Zhang, V. Wee Yong, Mengzhou Xue
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are physiologically expressed in the central nervous system in neurons, astrocytes and microglia, and their aberrant elevation contributes to a number of diseases. Amongst the MMP members, MMP-9 has generated considerable attention because of its possible involvement in inflammatory responses, blood-brain barrier permeability, the regulation of perineuronal nets, demyelination, and synaptic long-term potentiation. Emerging evidence indicate an association between MMP-9 and the syndrome of depression. This review provides an updated and comprehensive summary of the probable roles of MMP-9 in depression with an emphasis on the mechanisms and potential of MMP-9 as a biomarker of depression.