Description
Matrix metallopeptidase 3 (abbreviated as MMP3) is also known as stromelysin 1 and progelatinase.MMP3 is a member of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family whose members are involved in involved in the breakdown of extracellular matrix in normal physiological processes, such as embryonic development, reproduction, and tissue remodeling, as well as in disease processes, such as arthritis and metastasis. Most MMP’s are secreted as inactive proproteins which are activated when cleaved by extracellular proteinases. This gene encodes an enzyme which degrades fibronectin, laminin, collagens III, IV, IX, and X, and cartilage proteoglycans. The enzyme is thought to be involved in wound repair, progression of atherosclerosis, and tumor initiation.