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Human interstitial collagenase (matrix metalloproteinase-1, MMP-1), an enzyme whose only known physiologic substrate has heretofore been believed to be the extracellular matrix molecule, collagen. Data indicate that matrix metalloproteinase-1 displays an expanded substrate repertoire that supports the existence of a new interface between connective tissue turnover and serine proteinase inhibitors (1). It has been shown that the MMP-1 functions as a protease agonist of Protease-activated receptors (PAR1) cleaving the receptor at the proper site to generate PAR1-dependent Ca2+ signals and migration. These results demonstrate that MMP-1 in the stromal-tumor microenvironment can alter the behavior of cancer cells through PAR1 to promote cell migration and invasion (2). It has also been suggested that increased levels of MMP-1 due to tobacco smoking plays a major role in the aging process of skin since MMP-1 degrades collagen, which accounts for at least 70% of the dry weight of dermis. Significantly more MMP-1 has been detected in the skin of smokers than non-smokers whereas no difference was seen for the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (3).