What is the best buffer for MMP-2 enzymatic action?

Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) is an enzyme that belongs to the matrix metalloproteinase family. This family of proteins is involved in the breakdown of the extracellular matrix. While typically secreted as inactive proteins, MMP's require hydrolysis by extracellular proteinases for their activation. In the active form, the best buffer used for the study of MMP-2 activity is a buffer made of following constituents:

• 50 mM Tris-HCl.
• 150 mM NaCl
• 5 mM CaCl₂
• 1 µM ZnCl₂
• 1% of Triton X-100 in water

Most importanlty, the pH of the buffer needs to be maintain at 7.5.

References:

Toth M., Fridman R. (2001) Assessment of Gelatinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9 by Gelatin Zymography. In: Brooks S.A., Schumacher U. (eds) Metastasis Research Protocols. Methods in Molecular Medicine, vol 57. Humana Press. https://doi.org/10.1385/1-59259-136-1:163