This volume describes recent research in the field of metalloproteinases (a family of enzymes that can catalyze tissue degradation), in particular their participation in autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, reviewing the latest developments in metalloproteinase inhibitor design and the current status of clinical candidates. This volume is intended not only for those active in research into metalloproteinases but also for those with an interest in inflammatory diseases. Thus it addresses both academic and industrial researchers.

This volume describes recent research in the field of metalloproteinas es, in particular their participation in autoimmune diseases such as r heumatoid arthritis. The work updates current progress in matrix metal loproteinase research, reviewing the latest developments in metallopro teinase inhibitor design and the current status of clinical candidates . It elucidates the structural relationships between different members of the MMP family and provides insight into the contributions of diff erent metalloproteinases to normal and pathological processes. Special emphasis is given to the potential of adamlysins as therapeutic targe ts. This volume is intended not only for those active in research into metalloproteinases but also for those with an interest in inflammator y diseases. Thus it addresses both academic and industrial researchers .