Secreted metalloproteinase that allows assimilation of proteinaceous substrates. Shows high activities on basic nuclear substrates such as histone and protamine. May be involved in virulence (By similarity). Preferential cleavage of bonds with hydrophobic residues in P1'. Also 3-Asn-|-Gln-4 and 8-Gly-|-Ser-9 bonds in insulin B chain. Binds 1 zinc ion per subunit. Belongs to the peptidase M35 family.