Localization of degradative enzymes and their inhibitors in the degenerate human intervertebral disc

• DOI: 10.1002/path.1608
• Publication Date: 2004-08-10T12:01:39Z
• Authors: Christine Lyn Le ...; Anthony J Freemont; Judith Alison Hoy...
• Keywords: Intervertebral Disc; Degeneration (medical); ADAMTS

Abstract The histological and biochemical changes that occur in the extracellular matrix of intervertebral disc (IVD) during ageing degeneration have been investigated extensively. However, mechanisms behind these are not fully understood. A number studies suggested involvement metalloproteinases (MMPs) ADAMTS IVD degeneration, but few localized site production enzymes to cells degenerate disc. This study uses immunohistochemical techniques localize quantify degrading (MMPs 1, 3, 13, 4) their inhibitors (TIMPS 2, 3) within non‐degenerate discs varying severity degeneration. In all investigated, produced were chondrocyte‐like nucleus pulposus inner annulus fibrosus (AF), with little immunopositivity outer AF. Non‐degenerate showed low numbers expressing degradative MMP 1 4, suggesting a role for normal homeostasis. No 3 or 13 was observed discs. discs, immunopositive MMPs 4 increased increase also accompanied by increases TIMPs 2 TIMP 3. highlights although expression this is an inhibitors. immunoreactive increasing paralleled rise its inhibitor finding indicates aggrecanases, rather then MMPs, possible therapeutic target inhibition Copyright © 2004 Pathological Society Great Britain Ireland. Published John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.