Matrix metalloproteinases and leukocyte activation

KS Smigiel, WC Parks - Progress in molecular biology and translational …, 2017 - Elsevier
As their name implies, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are thought to degrade
extracellular matrix proteins, a function that is indeed performed by some members.
However, regardless of their cell source, matrix degradation is not the only function of these
enzymes. Rather, individual MMPs have been shown to regulate specific immune
processes, such as leukocyte influx and migration, antimicrobial activity, macrophage
activation, and restoration of barrier function, typically by processing a range of nonmatrix …