MMP-9 activity is strongly related to cancer growth and metastization. This study aimed at assessing the
inhibitory potential of the major seed protein fractions from eight selected legume species towards MMP-
9 activity in colon carcinoma cells. Albumin and globulin fractions were screened for MMP-9 inhibitors,
using a fluorometric assay and gelatin zymography. Their effect on HT29 cell proliferation and cell migration
was tested, as well as on the corresponding intrinsic cellular MMP-9 activities. Seed proteins include
potent inhibitors of MMP-9, particularly low molecular mass proteins. Their effectiveness differs greatly
among species, with a positive correlation detected between their inhibitory activity and the reduction in
cell migration. Lupin seeds contain the most efficient MMP-9 inhibitors of all legume seeds analyzed,
inhibiting both gelatinases and HT29 migration and growth, while pea seeds showed no effect. Results
reveal legume protein MMPIs as novel metalloproteinase inhibitors with possible pharmacological interest.
This may be important for selecting leguminous species with potential use in anti-cancer diets.
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