MMP2 is a peptidase enzyme that belongs to the large family of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) which degrade the extracellular matrix (ECM) with different substrate specificities. Aberrant and unregulated expression of MMPs via deregulation of key negative check controls is strongly associated with increased tumor invasiveness, metastasis potential, and angiogenesis. This uncontrolled behavior is in direct contrast to the tightly controlled physiological systems of embryonic development, tissue remodeling, and rebuilding.
