Matrix Metalloprotease (MMP) Inhibitors

Matrix metalloproteases (matrix metalloproteinase, MMPs), also called matrixins, are zinc-dependent endopeptidases that are the major proteases involved in ECM degradation. MMPs are capable of degrading a wide range of extracellular molecules and a number of bioactive molecules.

24 matrixin genes have been identified in humans, which can be organized into six groups based on domain organization and substrate preference:

1. Collagenases (MMP-1, -8 and -13)
2. Gelatinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9)
3. ...