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Matrix metalloproteinase levels as a marker for rotator cuff tears
Jinny Jacob1, Eric Eisemon, Shahin Sheibani-Rad
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11219, USA. jijacob@maimonidesmed.org
Orthopedics
|April 13, 2012
Summary
Matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) is significantly elevated in rotator cuff tears, correlating with increased pain. Higher MMP-13 levels may indicate an impending tear and suggest potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in rotator cuff tears.
- Limited data exists on the correlation between clinical severity and MMP levels in these tears.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare the expression levels of MMP-1, -3, -9, and -13 in patients with rotator cuff tears.
- To determine if higher MMP expression correlates with worse clinical symptoms, including pain and function.
Main Methods:
- Rotator cuff specimens were collected from 16 patients undergoing repair.
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) quantified MMP-1, -3, -9, and -13 levels.
- The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Rating Scale assessed preoperative pain and function.
Main Results:
- MMP-13 expression was significantly increased in all rotator cuff specimens (P=.02).
- Elevated MMP-13 levels showed a significant negative correlation with patient pain scores (r=-0.5).
- MMP-9 levels were higher but not statistically significant; MMP-1 and -3 expression was insignificant.
Conclusions:
- MMP-13 plays a critical role in rotator cuff tears.
- Elevated MMP-13 may serve as a biomarker for impending tears.
- Further research is needed to explore MMP-13 as a therapeutic target for limiting disease progression.
