Matrix metalloproteinases in bone development and pathology: current knowledge and potential clinical utility

Matrix metalloproteinases in bone development and pathology: current knowledge and potential clinical utility Hai Po Helena Liang, Joshua Xu, Meilang Xue, Christopher J Jackson Sutton Arthritis Research Laboratory, Institute of Bone and Joint Research, Kolling Institute, Sydney Medical School Northern, University of Sydney, St Leonards, NSW, Australia Abstract: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are degrading enzymes that have a pivotal ­function in extracellular matrix remodeling. More than half of the MMP members are expressed by bone and cartilage cells under physiological or pathological conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis. Through studies on the various bone diseases and on ­genetically modified mouse models in which one or more of the MMPs or their associated proteins and downstream signaling molecules have been targeted, it is becoming increasingly evident that MMPs and other players in their cellular pathway play a pivotal role in bone development and remodeling. This review details the latest findings related to MMPs and bone development and pathology.