Metalloproteinase inhibitor 4
Function
Complexes with metalloproteinases (such as collagenases) and irreversibly inactivates them by binding to their catalytic zinc cofactor. Known to act on MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-7 and MMP-9.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the protease inhibitor I35 (TIMP) family.
Tissue Specificity
Abundant in heart and present at low levels in many other tissues.
Cellular localization
- Secreted
Alternative names
Metalloproteinase inhibitor 4, Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 4, TIMP-4, TIMP4