Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) degrade most components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and process a number of bioactive molecules.Matrix metalloproteinase-19 (MMP19) degrades various components of the extracellular matrix, such as aggrecan and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (comp), during development, haemostasis and pathological conditions (arthritic disease) [, ]. It may also play a role in neovascularization or angiogenesis []. MMP19 hydrolyses collagen type IV, laminin, nidogen, nascin-C isoform, fibronectin, and type I gelatin []. Its expression has been linked to melanoma progression [].
