Zymographical Techniques for Detectionof Matrix Metalloproteinases

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of zinc-dependent proteinases associated with extracellular matrix degradation, cellular migration, tissue remodeling, and angiogenesis. The activity of MMPs is regulated by the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Zymography and reverse zymography are useful to detect MMPs and TIMPs activities from various samples, for example vitreous, retina, plasma, and so on. Sample proteins are separated in substrate containing polyacrylamide gel by electrophoresis. The gel is incubated and then stained with Coomassie Blue. MMPs’ activities are detected as clear bands.