Figure 5From: Host matrix metalloproteinases in cerebral malaria: new kids on the block against blood–brain barrier integrity?Multiple putative roles of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in cerebral malaria (CM) according to their biochemical functions. MMPs could play an active role during CM development through several complementary mechanisms: i) by disrupting endothelial tight junctions after protein degradation of ZO-1, claudins and occludin, thus causing an increased BBB permeability; ii) by promoting TNF-α shedding, IL-1β activation and CXCL8/IL-8 potentiation after proteolytic cleavage of their pro-domains, therefore inducing exacerbated pro-inflammatory response; iii) by processing some CM-associated hemostatic factors such as tpA, upA, and PAI-1, thus increasing the risk for thrombotic events.Back to article page