Recombinant Mouse MMP12 Protein Standard (His tag)

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Matrix metallopeptidase 12 commonly known as MMP12 or macrophage elastase is an enzyme with a molecular mass of approximately 54 kDa. Found mainly in macrophages MMP12 belongs to the matrix metallopeptidase family. It functions to break down extracellular matrix proteins specifically elastin. Besides macrophages it sees expression in other tissues including the lungs and skin but it holds particular importance in immune cell-related environments.

Biological function summary

MMP12 plays an important role in tissue remodeling and repair processes. It interacts with other proteases within the extracellular matrix. The degradation of elastin by MMP12 contributes to structural organization and it participates in immune response modulation. As part of the matrix metalloproteinase family MMP12 takes part in the larger proteolytic system which comprises multiple enzymes working in concert.

Pathways

MMP12 is an essential factor in the extracellular matrix degradation pathway. This pathway regulates tissue remodeling and inflammatory response. MMP12 independently breaks down elastin while it interacts with proteins like MMP2 and MMP9 which assist in remodeling processes. It also contributes to the regulation of cytokines that orchestrate immune functions.

Overexpression of MMP12 is strongly linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and atherosclerosis. In COPD MMP12's breakdown of elastin contributes to tissue damage in the lung. In atherosclerosis the enzyme accelerates plaque destabilization impacting cardiovascular health. Additionally MMP12 shares functional relationships with proteins such as TIMPs (tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases) which regulate its activity and play roles in disease pathogenesis.