RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 A therapeutic role for matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors in lung diseases? JF European Respiratory Journal JO Eur Respir J FD European Respiratory Society SP 1200 OP 1214 DO 10.1183/09031936.00027411 VO 38 IS 5 A1 R.E. Vandenbroucke A1 E. Dejonckheere A1 C. Libert YR 2011 UL http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/38/5/1200.abstract AB Disruption of the balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their endogenous inhibitors is considered a key event in the development of pulmonary diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, interstitial lung diseases and lung cancer. This imbalance often results in elevated net MMP activity, making MMP inhibition an attractive therapeutic strategy. Although promising results have been obtained, the lack of selective MMP inhibitors, together with limited knowledge regarding the exact functions of a particular MMP, hampers clinical application. This review discusses the involvement of different MMPs in lung disorders and future opportunities and limitations of therapeutic MMP inhibition.