While MMPs are essential for normal physiological processes, their dysregulation can lead to pathological conditions:
- Cancer: Overexpression of MMPs can facilitate tumor invasion and metastasis by degrading ECM barriers. - Cardiovascular Diseases: MMPs are involved in the remodeling of blood vessels, contributing to conditions like atherosclerosis. - Arthritis: In rheumatoid arthritis, excessive MMP activity leads to the degradation of cartilage and joint damage.
