Collagenase-3 (MMP-13) Enhances Remodeling of Three-Dimensional Collagen and Promotes Survival of Human Skin Fibroblasts

Collagenase-3 (MMP-13) is a matrix metalloproteinase capable of cleaving a multitude of extracellular matrix proteins in addition to fibrillar collagens. Human MMP-13 is expressed by fibroblasts in chronic cutaneous ulcers, but not in normally healing adult skin wounds. However, MMP-13 is produced by fibroblasts in adult gingival and in fetal skin wounds characterized by rapid collagen remodeling and scarless healing. Here, we have examined the role of human MMP-13 in remodeling of three-dimensional (3D) collagenous matrix by primary adult human skin fibroblasts. The high level of human MMP-13 expression by fibroblasts achieved by adenoviral gene delivery resulted in potent enhancement of r…