Identification of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) gene family of Trachinotus ovatus and expression analysis in response to Streptococcus agalactiae and Cryptocaryon irritans

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) represent a group of zinc-dependent endopeptidases that degrade various protein components of the extracellular matrix (ECM). These enzymes play a role in multiple biological and pathological processes, including tissue remodeling, growth, trauma repair, defense mechanism, and immune response. However, their role in immune response in Trachinotus ovatus is still unclear. This research involves a comprehensive genome-wide identification of MMPs in T. ovatus(ToMMPs). We discovered 15 ToMMPs, examining their chromosomal locations, features, evolutionary connections, and signs of purifying selection. In the immune response to Streptococcus agalactiae, MMP30 plays a crucial role in liver-specific immune responses or tissue remodeling, MMP14b and MMP9 are significantly involved in the functions of the spleen and head kidney, MMP2 is essential for reproductive processes. In the Cryptocaryon irritans infection, most of the ToMMPs were related to the host's immune response. These findings offer important insights for future studies on the immune functions of MMPs.