MMP10 protein of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family is involved in the breakdown of extracellular matrix in normal physiological processes, such as embryonic development, reproduction, and tissue remodeling, as well as in disease processes, such as arthritis and metastasis. Most MMP's are secreted as inactive proproteins which are activated when cleaved by extracellular proteinases. The enzyme encoded by this gene degrades proteoglycans and fibronectin. MMP10 is part of a cluster of MMP genes which localize to chromosome 11q22.3. Recombinant human MMP10 protein, fused to His-tag at N-terminus, was expressed in E.coli.