The Role of Proteinases in Osteoarthritis: A Brief Review of New Potent Cartilage Metabolism Therapeutic Target

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most frequent form of degenerative joint disease that becomes a major source of disability worldwide. The loss of articular cartilage is the central etiology of osteoarthritis. Cartilage is solely composed of one cell type, the chondrocytes, which are surrounded by a large volume of extracellular matrix (ECM). Extracellular matrix components consist of two main macromolecules, namely collagen and aggrecan. The degradation of these molecules plays a significant role in OA pathological process, although degradation of less abundant molecules composing the matrix organization is also likely to contribute to disease progression. Several proteinases, including matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP-13) and A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin Motifs (ADAMTS) -4 and -5, are known to involve in the matrix degradation of cartilage structure. A comprehensive understanding of the various factors and pathways involved in the regulation of MMP-13, ADAMTS-4, and ADAMTS-5 is essential in regard to osteoarthritis management, as they have great potential in future therapies.