The invention provides inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases that are
useful as anti-tumor agents and for treating wounds. The inhibitors are
peptides having sequences related to cleavage regions of the proenzyme
forms of matrix metalloproteinases. The peptide inhibitors of the
invention can be formulated into therapeutic compositions, lotions,
creams, skin covering and wound dressings that inhibit expression of
vascular endothelial growth factor and encourage healing.