MMP8

Neutrophil collagenase, also known as matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) or PMNL collagenase (MNL-CL), is a is_associated_with::collagen cleaving is_associated_with::enzyme which is present in the connective tissue of most mammals. In humans, the MMP-8 is_associated_with::protein is encoded by the MMP8 is_associated_with::gene.

Function
Proteins of the is_associated_with::matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family are involved in the breakdown of is_associated_with::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. However, the enzyme encoded by this gene is stored in secondary granules within neutrophils and is activated by autolytic cleavage. Its function is degradation of type I, II and III collagens. The gene is part of a cluster of MMP genes which localize to chromosome 11q22.3.