MMP3 is a pattern of the large family of zinc dependent matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which plays an active role in the pathogenesis of inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The expression and secretion of MMPs are sensitive to the condition of intestinal inflammation, and are either augmented or moderated by a series of inflammatory cytokines, especially TNF-α (15). The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is inflammatory bowel disease.