Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP-2)

Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 is a secreted protein that belongs to the family of natural inhibitors regulating matrix metalloproteinases—enzymes responsible for degrading components of the extracellular matrix. Unlike other family members, it not only inhibits several MMPs but also uniquely suppresses endothelial cell proliferation and modulates angiogenesis. It plays critical roles in maintaining tissue homeostasis during development, wound healing, tumor invasion/metastasis suppression, cardiovascular health, and neural plasticity. The gene encoding this protein is located on chromosome 17p13.

Other names

TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 2Metalloproteinase inhibitor 2TIMP2

Drugs or molecules that interact with this target typically act by inhibiting or modulating matrix metalloproteinases through direct binding to their catalytic domains, thereby preventing extracellular matrix degradation. Some agents may also block the activation pathway involving MT1-MMP/TIMP-2 complexes for pro-MMP activation.