MMP9 [MMP9/2025R]

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), a family of peptidase enzymes, plays a critical role in degradation of extracellular matrix components in normal physiological processes, such as embryonic development, reproduction, and tissue remodeling, as well as in disease processes. MMP-9, also designated as 92-kDa Type IV Collagenase or gelatinase B is a member of MMPs, which is produced as a 92- kDa pro-enzyme by neutrophils and macrophages as a normal constituent and released into the extracellular environment after activation in inflammatory tissues. MMP-9 is predominantly expressed in neutrophils, macrophages, mast cells and stromal cells. The expression levels of MMP-9 in tumors are elevated compared with the corresponding normal tissues in a variety of cancer types, including breast, colon, gastric and nasopharyngeal cancers.