Matrix Metalloproteinases
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc-dependent endopeptidases that are capable of degrading all kinds of extracellular matrix proteins, but also can process a number of bioactive molecules.
They are known to be involved in the cleavage of cell surface receptors, the release of apoptotic ligands, and chemokine/cytokine in/activation. MMPs are also thought to play a major role on cell behaviors such as cell proliferation, migration (adhesion/dispersion), differentiation, angiogenesis, apoptosis and host defense.
They are known to be involved in the cleavage of cell surface receptors, the release of apoptotic ligands, and chemokine/cytokine in/activation. MMPs are also thought to play a major role on cell behaviors such as cell proliferation, migration (adhesion/dispersion), differentiation, angiogenesis, apoptosis and host defense.