Role of matrix metalloproteinases in bone regeneration: Narrative review

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) not only work as enzymes but also as degrading enzymes that have been shown to play an important function in extracellular matrix (ECM) regeneration, including bone regeneration. To generate new bone tissue, bone regeneration or repair relies on a series of regulated processes in which MMPs play an important role. Bone cells express the MMPs in an active state, and these MMPs are assumed to have a crucial role, not only for the viability and functionality of osteoclasts, osteoblasts, and osteocytes but also for the formation and development of chondrocytes.

This study aimed to review and present the roles of matrix metalloproteinases in bone regeneration.

An analysis of the scientific literature on the topics of matrix metalloproteinases in bone regeneration was done on PubMed and Google Scholar. Search results were screened for articles that described or investigated the impacts matrix metalloproteinases have on bones in relation to dentistry. The journals' cited papers were also assessed for relevance and included if they complied with the criteria for inclusion. Accessibility to the full document was one of the prerequisites for admission.

Bone regeneration are intricate ongoing processes involving numerous MMPs, especially MMP 2, 9 and 13. MMP-2 appears to alter bone growth through influencing osteoclast and osteoblast activity and proliferation, MMP-9-deficient animals have abnormal bone formation exclusively during endochondral ossification, MMP 13 is responsible for osteoclast receptor activation, has been linked to the breakdown bone resorption.

MMP 2, 9, and 13 play a major protective role in osteogenesis and bone regeneration.