MMP8 encodes a member of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family of proteins. These proteins are involved in the breakdown of extracellular matrix in embryonic development, reproduction, and tissue remodeling, as well as in disease processes, such as arthritis and Proteolysis at different sites on this protein results in multiple active forms of the enzyme with distinct N-termini. This protein functions in the degradation of type I, II and III collagens. The is part of a clusterof MMP genes which localize to chromosome 11q22. Alternative splicing in multiple transcript variants.

MMP8; CLG1; Neutrophil collagenase; Matrix metalloproteinase-8; MMP-8; PMNL collagenase; PMNL-CL