Non-proteolytic activities of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have recently been shown to
impact cell migration, but the precise mechanism remains to be understood. We previously
demonstrated that the hemopexin (PEX) domain of MMP-9 is a prerequisite for enhanced
cell migration. Using a biochemical approach, we now report that dimerization of MMP-9
through the PEX domain appears necessary for MMP-9-enhanced cell migration. Following
a series of substitution mutations within the MMP-9 PEX domain, blade IV was shown to be …