Background：MMP12(Matrix metalloproteinase-12) is a 54 kDa proenzyme that is processed into a 45 kDa and then a 22 kDa active form(15723202). MMP9 and MMP12 promote intimal thickening by independent cleavage of N-cadherin, which elevates vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation via beta-catenin signalling. Its overexpression in myeloid lineage cells plays a key role in modulating myelopoiesis, immune suppression, and lung tumorigenesis(PMID: 21378275).
