Human Fibroblast Collagenase

Human fibroblast collagenase, HFC, is one of a number of matrix metallo-proteases involved with growth and development. As such it has potential as a target for the development of drugs for the treatment of rhumetoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. The two sculptures of HFC are based upon the three dimensional structure of the enzyme determined by the sculptor and his collaborators at Eastman Kodak and Sterling Winthrop Pharmaceuticals. They are made of joined copper and brass segments and stand approximately 9 inches above decorative wooden bases. One of the pieces is on permanent exhibition in the Laboratory for Molecular Systemmatics at the Smithsonian Institution. The other remains with the sculptor.