Matrix Metalloproteinases "MMPs" are zinc -dependent enzymes , that destruct many types of proteins of the extracellular matrix(ECM).MMP families includes collagenases,gelatinases, stromelysin , matrilysins and membrane-type MMPs.
MMPs regulate many biological processes such as healing, repair, vascular remodeling andangiogenesis. Matrixins are calcium-dependent zinc containing endopeptidases. Other family members such as adamalysins, seralysins and astacins also recorded. Membrane - type matrix metalloproteinases (MT-MMPs) constitutes subgroup of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), and there are 6 MT-MMPs in humans. MT-MMPs are further sub-classified into type 1 transmembrane - type (MT1, MT2, MT3, and MT5-MMPs) and glucosylphosphodylinositol (GP1) - anchored type (MT4- and MT6-MMPs). Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) degrade all components of the matrix (CM) and numerous non-matrix proteins. Increased MMP-2 activity is also involved in the proteolysis of important intra cellular targets in cardiomyocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC).Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) played a principle role in many of the cell functions and keeping its homeostasis. Also, shared in different pathological abnormalities such as inflammation and hurried many disease progression. MMP-9 at the same time is widely related to carcinogenesis and considered as biomarker to various types of cancers as detected by recent researches. The aim of the present review is to throw a light on the role of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in both physiological and pathological processes. The study will increase the information about the diseases associated with MPPs as well as the updated classifications and its inhibitors that helped in treatment as well as protect against many pathological conditions