Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of enzymes that play a crucial role in the breakdown and remodeling of the extracellular matrix, which is the structural support surrounding cells. MMP7, also known as Matrilysin, is one of these enzymes and has been implicated in cancer progression, particularly in tumor invasion and metastasis (the spread of cancer to other parts of the body).
MMP7 has been found to be overexpressed in various types of cancer, including pancreatic cancer. High levels of MMP7 are associated with poor prognosis in many cancers. While the role of MMP7 in prostate cancer is not as well-established as in other cancers, some studies suggest that MMP7 may contribute to prostate cancer progression by promoting tumor growth, invasion, and angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels).
However, developing drugs that specifically target MMP7 has been challenging due to the structural similarities it shares with other MMPs. Inhibiting the wrong MMPs could lead to unwanted side effects. A recent breakthrough by researchers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, the Weizmann Institute of Science, and the University of Tokyo offers new hope for targeted cancer therapies focusing on MMP7.
The research team utilized a pioneering approach called Mirror-Image Random Nonstandard Peptide Integrated Discovery (MI-RaPID) to identify a highly selective inhibitor for MMP7. This technology led to the discovery of D’20, a unique macrocyclic peptide designed in a mirror-image form using D-amino acids.

D’20 demonstrated the ability to effectively block MMP7 activity with a high degree of precision without affecting other MMPs. In laboratory tests, D’20 successfully stopped the movement of pancreatic cancer cells, a critical step in preventing metastasis.
Importantly, D’20 did not interfere with the normal growth of cells.
D’20 also exhibited remarkable stability, retaining its structure and function in human blood and simulated digestive system conditions. This stability suggests D’20 has strong potential for development as a drug, as it can effectively work within the human body over time.

While this research primarily focused on pancreatic cancer, the discovery of a highly selective and stable MMP7 inhibitor like D’20 holds promise for treating other cancers where MMP7 plays a significant role, potentially including prostate cancer. Further research is needed to investigate the specific effects of MMP7 inhibition on prostate cancer cells and to explore the potential of D’20 as a therapeutic agent for this disease.

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