The matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) are a family of peptidase enzymes responsible for the degradation of extracellular matrix components, including collagen, gelatin, fibronectin, laminin and proteoglycan. Transcription of MMP genes is differentially activated by phorbol ester, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB). MMP catalysis requires both calcium and zinc. MMP-9 (also designated 92 kDa type IV collagenase or gelatinase B) has been shown to degrade bone collagens in concert with MMP-1 (also designated interstitial collagenase, fibroblast collagenase or collagenase-1), and cysteine proteases and may play a role in bone osteoclastic resorption. MMP-1 is down-regulated by p53, and abnormality of p53 expression may contribute to joint degradation in rheumatoid arthritis by regulating MMP-1 expression. Primary antibodies are available purified, or with a selection of fluorescent CF® Dyes and other labels. CF® Dyes offer exceptional brightness and photostability. Note: Conjugates of blue fluorescent dyes like CF®405S and CF®405M are not recommended for detecting low abundance targets, because blue dyes have lower fluorescence and can give higher non-specific background than other dye colors.