The Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1, Interstitial collagenase, fibroblast collagenase) is a member of a multigene family of calcium-dependent, zinc-containing endoproteinases, the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The MMPs are responsible for the degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) including collagens, elastins, gelatin, matrix glycoproteins and proteoglycan during normal development and disease processes. MMPs are regulated by hormones, growth factors and cytokines. MMP-1 belongs to the subclass, the collagenases, and along with MMP-8, and MMP-13 are the only members of the MMP family that are capable of degrading the types I, II and III interstitial collagens with high efficiency. These collagens are primarily found in bone, c