Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) in Periodontium: Is It a Boon or a Bane?

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a diverse family of endopeptidases that play a pivotal role in tissue remodeling and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, including in the periodontium. These enzymes are implicated in various biological processes, such as inflammation, cell proliferation, and wound healing. MMPs also contribute to remodeling the Periodontal Ligament (PDL) and alveolar bone by degrading ECMw proteins, thereby releasing growth factors beneficial for cellular repair and differentiation. Their activity is finely regulated through gene expression, proenzyme activation, and inhibition by tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs). A balanced interplay between MMPs and TIMPs is crucial for maintaining tissue homeostasis. While MMPs have beneficial roles in tissue repair and cellular functions, their dysregulation can exacerbate inflammatory responses and compromise tissue integrity. This chapter explores the dual nature of MMPs in the periodontium, examining whether they serve as a boon or a bane in periodontal health.