Metalloprotease which may be important for placentation by regulating biological activity of key peptides at the embryo-maternal interface (By similarity). Involved in coat pigmentation patterns. During skin development, may be required to establish the periodicity of tabby markings, initiating a pre-pattern at or before hair follicle development (PubMed:22997338). Binds 1 zinc ion per subunit. Expressed in skin (PubMed:22997338). Expression levels do not differ between dark and light skin areas (PubMed:22997338). Allelic variations in LVRN are associated with tabby pattern variation in domestic cats. Belongs to the peptidase M1 family.