Matrix metalloproteinase 8 (MMP-8), also known as neutrophil collagenase or PMNL collagenase, is a collagen lyase present in the connective tissues of most mammals. In humans, the MMP-8 protein is encoded by the MMP8 gene. A variety of substances, such as IL-1, IL-8, TNF-α, and GM-CSF, stimulate neutroneuter cells to release MMP-8, a key enzyme that initiates ECM breakdown. Activated MMP-8 can cleat natural proteins such as fibronectin, chondroproteoglycan, serine protease inhibitor protein, and polypeptides. MMP-8 affects the metastatic behavior of breast cancer cells by preventing lymph node metastasis, emphasizing the importance of anti-target recognition in drug development. MMP-8 is involved in wound repair by eliminating inflammation, which provides a certain possibility for the development of new strategies for the treatment of poor wound healing.