Involvement of matrix metalloproteinases in the growth plate response to physiological mechanical load

Adi Reich, Stav Simsa Maziel, Ziv Ashkenazi, Efrat Monsonego Ornan

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

Enzymes from the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family play a crucial role in growth-plate vascularization and ossification via proteolytic cleavage and remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Their regulation in the growth plate is crucial for normal matrix assembly. Endochondral ossification, which takes place at the growth plates, is influenced by mechanical loading. Using an in vivo avian model for mechanical loading, we have found increased blood penetration into the growth plates of loaded chicks. The purpose of this work was to study the involvement of MMP-2, -3, -9, -13, and -16 in the growth plate's response to loading and in the catch-up growth resulting from load release. We found that mechanical loading, as well as release from load, upregulated MMP-2, -9, and -13 expressions. In contrast, MMP-3, associated with cartilage injuries, and its associated protein connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), were downregulated by the load. However, after release from load, MMP-3 was upregulated and CTGF levels were elevated and caught up with the control. MMP-3 and CTGF were also downregulated after 60 min of mechanical stretching in vitro. These results demonstrate the central role of MMPs in the growth plate's response to mechanical loading, as well as in the catch-up growth followed load release.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)172-180
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Applied Physiology
Volume108
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2010

Keywords

  • Chondrocyte
  • Connective tissue growth factor
  • Extracellular matrix
  • Matrix metalloproteinase

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