基质金属蛋白酶 (MMPs)是主要的蛋白水解酶之一 ,其活性可以受到内源性抑制物组织金属蛋白酶抑制剂 (TIMPs)特异性调节。MMPs与TIMPs的平衡是维持细胞外基质内环境稳定的决定因素。气道炎症和重构是支气管哮喘的重要特征。MMPs及其抑制物TIMPs可以通过对炎性细胞浸润和功能的影响 ,基质沉积和降解等作用参与支气管哮喘的发病机制 ;并且MMPs与TIMPs比例的失衡与气道高反应性及激素治疗的效果均有密切关系。 Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are one of the major proteolytic enzymes whose activity can be specifically regulated by endogenous inhibitors of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). The balance between MMPs and TIMPs is a determinant of maintaining the environmental stability within the extracellular matrix. Airway inflammation and remodeling are important hallmarks of bronchial asthma. MMPs and their inhibitors, TIMPs, are involved in the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma through their effects on infiltration and function of inflammatory cells, matrix deposition and degradation. The imbalance of MMPs and TIMPs, airway hyperresponsiveness and effects of hormone therapy There is a close relationship.