MMP8 protein of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family is involved in the breakdown of extracellular matrix in normal physiological processes, such as embryonic development, reproduction, and tissue remodeling, as well as in disease processes, such as arthritis and metastasis. Most MMP's are secreted as inactive proproteins which are activated when cleaved by extracellular proteinases. However, the enzyme encoded by this gene is stored in secondary granules within neutrophils and is activated by autolytic cleavage. Its function is degradation of type I, II and III collagens. MMP8 is part of a cluster of MMP. Recombinant human MMP8 protein, fused to His-tag at N-terminus, was expressed in E.coli.