The present invention relates to the identification of novel metallo-proteases (MP) in Gram-positive microorganisms. The present invention provides the nucleic acid and amino acid sequences for Bacillus (MP). The present invention also provides host cells having mutation or deletion of part or all of the gene encoding MP. The present invention also provides host cells further comprising nucleic acid encoding desired heterologous proteins such as enzymes. The present invention also provides cleaning compositions comprising an MP of the present invention.