This gene (MMP23B) encodes a member of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family, and it is part of a duplicated region of chromosome 1p36.3. Proteins of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family are 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. This gene belongs to the more telomeric copy of the duplicated region. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008],cofactor:Binds 1 zinc ion per subunit.,enzyme regulation:Inhibited by TIMP2.,function:Protease.,PTM:N-glycosylated.,PTM:Proteolytic cleavage might yield an active form.,similarity:Belongs to the peptidase M10A family.,similarity:Contains 1 Ig-like C2-type (immunoglobulin-like) domain.,subcellular location:A secreted form produced by proteolytic cleavage seems also to exist.,tissue specificity:Predominantly expressed in ovary, testis and prostate.,
