Metalloproteinase inhibitor that functions by forming one to one complexes with target metalloproteinases, such as collagenases, and irreversibly inactivates them by binding to their catalytic zinc cofactor. Acts on MMP1, MMP2, MMP3, MMP7, MMP8, MMP9, MMP10, MMP11, MMP12, MMP13 and MMP16. Does not act on MMP14. Also functions as a growth factor that regulates cell differentiation, migration and cell death and activates cellular signaling cascades via CD63 and ITGB1. Plays a role in integrin signaling (By similarity). Interacts with MMP1, MMP3, MMP10 and MMP13, but has only very low affinity for MMP14. Interacts with CD63; identified in a complex with CD63 and ITGB1 (By similarity). The activity of TIMP1 is dependent on the presence of disulfide bonds. N-glycosylated. Belongs to the protease inhibitor I35 (TIMP) family.