Matrix Metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3), also known as stromelysin-1, is a member of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family. This family of enzymes is crucial for the degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, which is essential for various physiological processes such as tissue remodeling, wound healing, and embryogenesis .
MMP-3 is capable of degrading a variety of ECM components, including collagen, gelatin, fibronectin, and laminin . It can also activate multiple pro-MMPs, initiating the MMP-mediated degradation reactions . This enzyme plays a significant role in cellular fibrinolytic activity and is involved in the processing of various pro-MMPs .
MMP-3 is an exocrine protein that is usually secreted through exocytosis and extracellular vesicles (EVs) . It binds to zinc and calcium ions, which are essential for its metallo-endopeptidase activity . The enzyme is secreted in its pro-protein form and is activated by extracellular proteinase cleavage .
MMP-3 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including osteoarthritis . It plays both promoting and destabilizing roles in disease progression and cell differentiation . The enzyme’s activity is regulated by various pathways, and its imbalance can lead to significant consequences for diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic leg ulcers .