Objective: To compare quantitatively the in vivo expression of collagenase messenger RNA (mRNA) and stromelysin mRNA in the joint tissues of human osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and in two animal models of acute inflammatory arthritis.
Methods: In vivo levels of metalloproteinase mRNA and protein were determined by quantitative Northern hybridization and by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively.
Results: In synovium, mean levels of collagenase mRNA were similar to those of stromelysin mRNA; however, in cartilage, mean levels of collagenase mRNA were significantly lower. The ratios of collagenase mRNA to stromelysin mRNA levels in RA and OA cartilage reflected similar ratios of collagenase protein to stromelysin protein levels in synovial fluid.
Conclusion: The regulation of collagenase mRNA expression in cartilage is distinct from that of stromelysin, suggesting distinct roles for these two metallo-proteinases in normal and abnormal physiologic functioning of cartilage.