Introduction
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of enzymes that depend on zinc and calcium to break down proteins found in the extracellular matrix. MMP9, initially produced as a 92kDa inactive precursor (zymogen), undergoes cleavage to become active, resulting in an 82kDa enzyme. Structurally, MMP9 consists of several domains: a gelatin-binding domain with three fibronectin type II units, a catalytic domain containing the zinc-binding site, a proline-rich type V collagen-homologous domain, and a hemopexin-like domain. Various cells, including monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, keratinocytes, fibroblasts, osteoclasts, and endothelial cells, produce MMP9. This enzyme plays a crucial role in inflammatory responses, tissue remodeling, wound healing, tumor growth, and metastasis. Additionally, MMP9 contributes to the breakdown of the extracellular matrix, facilitates leukocyte migration, and participates in bone resorption by osteoclasts. MMP9 acts on type IV and type V collagens, breaking them down into larger C-terminal three-quarter fragments and smaller N-terminal one-quarter fragments. Furthermore, MMP9 can degrade fibronectin but not laminin or Pz-peptide. Defects in MMP9 have been linked to an increased susceptibility to intervertebral disc disease (IDD), also known as lumbar disk herniation (LDH).
Description
Recombinant human Pro-MMP-9, produced in E. coli, is a non-glycosylated polypeptide chain consisting of 688 amino acids (fragment 20-707). This fragment corresponds to the pro-form of MMP-9 without the signal peptide. It has a molecular mass of 78.59 kDa and includes a 4.5 kDa amino-terminal hexahistidine tag. The purification of Pro-MMP-9 is achieved using proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Stability
For short-term storage (up to 4 weeks), the entire vial should be kept at 4°C. For longer storage, it should be frozen at -20°C. Avoid repeated freezing and thawing cycles.