MMP-3 expression is tightly regulated at multiple levels, including transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational modifications. Cytokines such as interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) can upregulate MMP-3 expression. Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are natural inhibitors that bind to active MMPs and prevent ECM degradation.
