LY52 is an MMP-2 and MMP-9 inhibitor. LY52 can significantly block the proteolytic activity of gelatinases, reducing the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in SKOV3 cells, thereby inhibiting cell invasion. LY52 can also suppress the pulmonary metastasis of Lewis lung carcinoma cells in mice. LY52 may be used in cancer research.