Matrix Metalloproteinases and TIMPs

Download or read book Matrix Metalloproteinases and TIMPs written by J. F. Woessner and published by Oxford University Press on Demand. This book was released on 2000 with total page 223 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a large family of enzymes that breakdown different components of the extracellular matrix. Their catalytic activity is dependent a metal ion, usually zinc. This issue of the Protein Profiles covers the sequence information, three-dimensional structures, activation, protein substrates, specificity requirements, inhibition, and biological roles of all the currently identified MMPs. The action of these enzymes must be carefully regulated. One way the cell does this, is by releasing inhibitory molecules known as tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). This volume contains information on the sequences, three-dimensional structures, and biological roles of the 4 known classes of TIMP. Matrix metalloproteinases will therefore be an invaluable source of data for all researchers interested in MMPs and TIMPs.