The present invention relates to novel metalloproteinase-like proteins. In
particular, isolated nucleic acid molecules are provided encoding the
human TACE-like and matrilysin-like proteins. TACE-like and
matrilysin-like polypeptides are also provided as are vectors, host cells
and recombinant methods for producing the same. The invention further
relates to screening methods for identifying agonists and antagonists of
TACE-like and matrilysin-like activity. Also provided are diagnostic
methods for detecting cancer and therapeutic methods for cancer and other
disorders characterized by an over or under production of these
metalloproteinases.