Matrix metalloproteinase 14 (MMP14), also known as membrane-type 1 MMP (MT1-MMP), is a transmembrane protease belonging to the MMP family. It plays a critical role in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling by cleaving collagen, gelatin, and other matrix components. Unlike most soluble MMPs, MMP14 is anchored to the cell membrane, enabling localized proteolytic activity essential for cell migration, tissue repair, and pathological processes like cancer invasion and fibrosis. It also activates pro-MMP2. amplifying ECM degradation cascades.
MMP14 antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and function in physiological and disease contexts. These antibodies target specific epitopes (e.g., catalytic domains, hemopexin-like regions) and are used in techniques such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and flow cytometry. Researchers employ MMP14 antibodies to investigate its roles in tumor progression (e.g., promoting metastasis, angiogenesis), cardiovascular diseases (e.g., plaque instability), and tissue regeneration. Dysregulation of MMP14 is linked to poor prognosis in cancers, making it a potential therapeutic target. However, antibody specificity remains a challenge due to structural similarities among MMP family members. Validated antibodies are critical for distinguishing MMP14 from paralogs like MMP15/16 and ensuring accurate experimental outcomes. Recent studies also explore MMP14 inhibitors, highlighting the antibody's dual utility in diagnostics and drug development.