Biosensors for measuring matrix metalloproteinases: an emerging research field

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been proposed as markers of many pathological conditions for their ability to degrade extracellular matrix components and remodel tissues. This review presents an overview of biosensors for the measurement of MMPs in serum, sputum and cell cultures. Major benefits and limitations of these technologies are discussed with respect to zymography and immunoassays, which are the reference methods to measure MMP activity and concentration. The paper also compares the analytical performances of sensors to the specific requirements for the application in clinical research, and comments on future trends in this field.