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NTR domain, TIMP subfamily; TIMPs, or tissue inibitors of metalloproteases, are essential regulators of extracellular matrix turnover and remodeling. They form complexes with matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) and inactivate them irreversibly by non-covalently binding their active zinc-binding sites. The levels of activated membrane-type MMPs, MMPs, and free TIMPs determine the balance between matrix degradation and matrix formation or stabilization. Consequently, TIMPs play roles in processes that require the remodeling and degradation of connective tissue, such as development, morphogenesis, wound healing, as well as in various diseases and pathological states such as tumor cell metastasis, arthritis, and artherosclerosis. Most TIMPs bind to a variety of MMPs. TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 appear to be multifunctional proteins with diverse biological action. They may exhibit growth factor-like activity and can inhibit angiogenesis. TIMP-3 has been implicated in apoptosis.
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