Targeting matrix metalloproteinase MMP3 greatly enhances oncolytic virus mediated tumor therapy

•MMP3 is upregulated in colon cancers.•Tumor cell-associated MMP3 expression is important for tumor growth.•The cancer therapy by MMP3 inhibition is improved together with oncolytic virus.•Downregulation of MMP3 reduces tumor cell invasion.•Erk1/2 and NF-κB signaling are changed by MMP3 downregulation.