Release of Matrix Metalloproteinase-8 During Physiological Trafficking and Induced Mobilization of Human Hematopoietic Stem Cells

In the present study, we provide evidence that the collagenase MMP-8 is involved in stem cell mobilization. Cell–matrix adhesion assays were performed with LM-511 where MACS-isolated CD34+ cells were allowed to attach to immobilized LM-511. A rapid release of MMP-8 from isolated neutrophil granulocytes can be observed during an in vitro culture. Activated MMP-8 degrades LM-511 but without influencing the HSC progenitor–matrix adhesion. This since MMP-8 strongly digests the LM-a5 chain but leaves the LG1–3 domains intact.