Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP’s) in the rat scoliotic intervertebral disc

Introduction – aim The response of the intervertebral disc to asymmetric forces may accelerate degeneration through changes in the matrix. At a macroscopic level the disc sustains structural changes which may play a role in the progression of a scoliotic curve. At a molecular level, disc degeneration is the outcome of the action of matrix metalloproteases (MMPs), members of a family of enzymes responsible for the degradation of extracellular matrix components. In the present experimental study we measured in vivo the expression of MMP’s in a rat scoliotic intervertebral disc and studied the impact of the degree of the deformity on their production.