Collagenase 3 (also known as MMP-13) is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the MMP13 gene. Most MMP's are secreted as inactive pro-proteins, which are activated when cleaved by extracellular proteinases. The protein encoded by this gene cleaves type II collagen more efficiently than types I and III. Mitchell et al. (1996) concluded that the expression of MMP-13 in osteoarthritic cartilage, along with its activity against type II collagen, indicates that the enzyme plays a significant role in cartilage collagen degradation. MMP-13 should therefore be part of a complex target for proposed therapeutic interventions based on collagenase inhibition. Reboul et al. (1996) likewise presented data on collagenase-3 expression and synthesis in human cartilage cells, and suggested its involvement in human osteoarthritis cartilage pathophysiology. MMP-13 may be involved in articular cartilage turnover and cartilage pathophysiology associated with osteoarthritis. The gene is part of a cluster of MMP genes which localize to chromosome 11q22.3.

ScienCell's human MMP-13 ELISA kit is based on standard sandwich enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay technology. Human MMP-13-specific polyclonal antibodies are pre-coated onto 8 x 12 divisible strips. The human-specific detection polyclonal antibodies are biotinylated. The test samples and biotinylated detection antibodies are subsequently added to the wells and then washed with PBS or TBS buffer. Avidin-Biotin-Peroxidase Complex is added and unbound conjugates are washed away with PBS or TBS buffer. HRP substrate TMB is used to visualize HRP enzymatic reaction. TMB is catalyzed by HRP to produce a blue color product that changes to yellow after adding acidic stop solution. The intensity of yellow is proportional to the amount of human MMP-13 in the sample that is captured on the strips.