Description
This gene encodes a member of the matrix metalloproteinase family of zinc-dependent endopeptidases capable of degrading extracellular matrix proteins. This gene is expressed specifically in the ameloblasts and odontoblasts, and the encoded protein is an inactive zymogen that requires proteolytic removal of a N-terminal propeptide to become enzymatically active. Mice lacking the encoded protein display an amelogenesis imperfecta phenotype