A method of disrupting or reducing a biofilm, the methods comprising contacting the biofilm with a matrix metalloproteinase (MMP). The biofilm may be present on inanimate or biological surfaces. Also, the MMP may be used to prevent the growth of a biofilm on an item, such as a medical device, by applying the MMP to the item. Also, therapeutic compositions comprising the MMP, which may be used to treat an individual having a biofilm-associated disease or disorder.
