Matrix metalloproteinase MMP12 is associated with intervertebral disc degeneration

INTRODUCTION: Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is associated with low back pain. However, the molecular changes during the degeneration process is not entirely clear. The loss of nucleus pulposus (NP) integrity is one of the early events of the degeneration. Chondrogenic markers, such as SOX9 and aggrecan, have been commonly used to assess the degree of IVD degeneration. Recent transcriptomic studies have proposed several other candidates that may mark IVD degeneration. These include cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), matrix gla protein (MGP)[1], fibulin 1 (FBLN1) [2], cytokeratin 18 (KRT18) [3], cadherin-2 (CDH2) [3], cytokeratin 19 (KRT19) [2], and Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) [4]. Studies also demonstrated that degenerated NP attains a fibrocartilaginous phenotype [5,6] with increased ...postprin