Migration through the extracellular matrix by the parasitic protozoan Leishmania is enhanced by surface metalloprotease gp63

Leishmania species engineered to express high levels of the surface metalloprotease gp63 have enhanced capacity of migration through extracellular matrix in vitro. This correlates with gp63 degradation of extracellular matrix components, such as collagen type IV and fibronectin, and suggests an important role for gp63 in the pathogenesis of leishmaniasis.