MMP25 (matrix metallopeptidase 25), also known as MT6-MMP, is a glycosyl-phosphatidyl inositol (GPI)-anchored membrane-type matrix metalloproteinase localized to the plasma membrane 1. As a pericellular protease, MMP25 displays metalloendopeptidase activity and participates in extracellular matrix organization and collagen catabolism 2. Unlike most MMPs, MMP25 exists as 120 kDa homodimers on the cell surface and does not activate pro-gelatinases (pro-MMP-2/9) or associate with tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), exhibiting unique biochemical properties 2. MMP25 has emerged as a significant mediator in multiple diseases. In colon cancer, MMP25 overexpression promotes tumorigenesis and creates infiltrative tumor margins 2. In osteoarthritis, MMP25 upregulation mediates IL-1β-induced chondrocyte injury and extracellular matrix degradation; MMP25 knockdown attenuates chondrocyte apoptosis and enhances matrix synthesis 3. MMP25 is also implicated in Kawasaki disease, where myeloid cells upregulate MMP25 in patients developing coronary artery lesions, suggesting a role in vascular injury 4. In pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and kidney renal clear cell carcinoma, MMP25 expression correlates with metastasis and immune infiltration patterns 56. However, genetic polymorphisms in MMP25 show no significant association with cerebral stroke risk 7.