Detection of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2, urokinase and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 within matrigel and growth factor-reduced matrigel basement membrane.

Aims And Background: Matrigel (MG) basement membrane is commonly used for in vitro studies of cellular migration, invasion and angiogenesis. It contains structural molecules such as collagen IV and laminin plus several growth factors which are diminished in growth factor-reduced Matrigel (GFR-MG). A less appreciated but important aspect of MG is the presence of matrix enzymes and their inhibitors.