Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc-dependent endopeptidases; other family members are adamalysins, serralysins, and astacins. The MMPs belong to a larger family of proteases known as the metzincin superfamily.
Collectively they 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 (such as the FAS ligand), 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.
Source: [[wikipedia:Matrix_metalloproteinase|Wikipedia]]This pathway was inferred from Homo sapiens pathway [http://www.wikipathways.org/index.php?title=Pathway:WP129&oldid=20953 WP129(r20953)] with a 93% conversion rate.b1ecell-extracellular matrix signaling pathwayPW:0000646Pathway Ontology10970876PubMedMatrix metalloproteinases: effectors of development and normal physiology.Genes Dev2000Vu THWerb Z