Matrix Metalloproteinases And Their Role In Oral Diseases: A Review

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc dependent endopeptidases that are capable of degrading extra cellular matrix proteins. The activity of MMPs is seen not only during normal organogenesis and wound healing, but also in pathological conditions like inflammatory diseases and tumor invasion. This review describes the structure, function and regulation of MMPs and also highlights their role in certain oral diseases like oral cancer, periodontitis and dental caries.