The matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family comprises 24 enzymes responsible for degrading extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Structurally, MMPs contain a signal peptide, propeptide, catalytic domain, hinge region, and cysteine domain. They localize extracellularly and on cell membranes, participating in tissue remodeling, cell migration, and other biological processes. MMPs regulate inflammation and tumor progression by influencing signaling pathways such as MAPK and NF-κB. Gene expression is tissue-specific and regulated under pathological conditions, and mutations or abnormal expression are associated with diseases such as cancer, fibrosis, and arthritis. Therefore, MMPs are important targets for disease diagnosis and treatment.