Mouse Monoclonal MMP2 Antibody

Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2), also known as gelatinase A, is a zinc-dependent endopeptidase belonging to the MMP family. It plays a crucial role in degrading extracellular matrix (ECM) components, particularly type IV collagen, enabling tissue remodeling, wound healing, and regulatory processes in development. However, dysregulated MMP2 activity is implicated in pathological conditions, including cancer metastasis, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammatory disorders. MMP2 antibodies are essential tools for detecting and quantifying this enzyme in research and diagnostics. These antibodies are typically raised against specific epitopes of MMP2. such as its catalytic domain, pro-peptide region, or hemopexin domain, and are available in monoclonal or polyclonal forms. They are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, and immunofluorescence to study MMP2 expression, localization, and activation in tissues or biofluids. Some antibodies distinguish between the latent pro-MMP2 (72 kDa) and active MMP2 (62 kDa) forms, aiding in functional studies. MMP2-specific antibodies also help investigate its interaction with inhibitors (e.g., TIMPs) or ECM substrates, providing insights into disease mechanisms. Validating antibody specificity is critical, as MMPs share structural similarities. Applications range from cancer biomarker studies to evaluating therapeutic MMP inhibitors, making MMP2 antibodies vital in both basic research and clinical contexts.