Abstract: The invention relates to matrix metalloproteases and variants thereof and DNA sequences that encode these matrix metalloproteases. The invention further relates to obtaining the matrix metalloproteases from natural sources or by recombinant methods by expression of the DNA sequences. These matrix metalloproteases can also complexed with a ligand. The matrix metalloproteases are enzymes that hydrolyze one or more proteins of the extracellular matrix and are thought to contribute to local degradation of the extracellular matrix in tumor cell invasion and metastasis, rheumatoid arthritis, aneurysm formation, smooth muscle proliferation and migration processes in atherosclerotic disease.