MMP1 gene encodes a protease named interstitial collagenase, which belongs to the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family of proteins. Interstitial collagenase is involved in the breakdown of collagens I, II, III, VII and X. In addition to regular biological processes, interstitial collagenase is also known to be play an important role during HIV infection, where it interacts and degrades a viral regulatory protein named Tat.

Mutations in MMP1 are associated with epidermolysis bullosa, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and an increased risk for certain types of cancers.