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The VICC.ORG Directory of Doctors, Healthcare Providers & Researchers

Lynn M. Matrisian, Ph.D.

Professor and Chair, Cancer Biology
VICC Member

Contact Information:

Vanderbilt University Medical Center
771 Preston Building
Nashville, TN 37232-6840
615-343-3413

Research Specialty:

Matrix metalloproteinases in normal and malignant cells

Research Description:

We are interested in understanding the molecular mechanism that underlie cancer development, growth, and metastasis. Our approach involves a combination of cell biology, molecular biology, and whole animal techniques.

We have determined that growth factors and cancer-causing oncogenes induce the expression of genes for extracellular matrix-degrading metalloproteinases (MMPs). These enzymes are capable of degrading basement membrane and connective tissue proteins, and have been associated with tumor invasion and metastasis. In addition, these enzymes contribute to many stages of tumor progression, including the growth and development of early stage tumors and angiogenesis. Their substrates are much broader than matrix components alone, and include growth factors and their receptors, chemokines, apoptosis factors, and adhesion molecules. We are using in vitro and in vivo model systems, including genetically altered transgenic or "knock-out" mice, to examine the role of metalloproteinases in specific stages of cancer.

We have been exploring the application of MMP-sensitive protease switch as a component of multifunctional nanoparticles for the detection and treatment of cancer. Near infrared optical "beacons", MRI, and SPECT contrast agents have been attached to peptide sequences that are cleaved by specific MMP family members, resulting in enhanced visualization of tumors based on elevated proteolytic activity. These probes have been attached to dendrimer backbones, resulting in nanostructures that detect proteolytic activity. We are extending these nanoparticles to include toxic drugs that are activated in the presence of tumor proteolytic activity.

Publications: