Cadherin-11 engagement modulates matrix metalloproteinase production by rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts

摘要

ObjectiveCadherin-11 is a homophilic cell-to-cell adhesion molecule expressed on joint synovial fibroblasts. Absence of cadherin-11 in a mouse rheumatoid arthritis (RA) model led to striking reductions in cartilage erosion. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes expressed by synovial fibroblasts important for cartilage erosion. The objective of this study was to determine if synovial fibroblast MMP production is regulated by cadherin-11.