Abstract: This invention provides nucleic acids and polypeptides encoding a novel family of matrix metalloproteinases herein designated as MMP-25 and variants of the same. MMP-25 is preferentially expressed in skin cells of a mammal, particularly in breast cells and hair follicles. Expression in hair follicles is localized in the Henle layer of cells, indicating a role in hair growth. Also provided are fragments and oligonucleotides useful for identifying and isolating MMP-25-encoding nucleic acids and methods for their use, as well as antibodies that bind specifically to MMP-25 and vectors for expression of MMP-25 polypeptides. Methods of inhibiting MMP-25 activity are provided, including methods useful for inhibiting hair growth.

Abstract: The present invention relates to peptides and peptide analogues designed from HFE protein. In particular, it relates to peptides and peptide analogues designed from an alpha-1 region of HFE protein which lowers the binding affinity of transferrin receptor for transferrin. Such compounds mimic HFE protein function, and reduce iron uptake and/or accumulation by a cell.