Disorganized, haphazard ineffective healing is a constant feature of chronic tendinopathy. Normal tendon is composed mostly of type I collagen. Tendinopathic tendons, conversely, have a greater proportion of type III collagen, which is associated with tendon rupture. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are involved in remodelling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of tendons, because they are either up- or down-regulated in tendinopathy. A balance between MMPs and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases is required to maintain tendon homeostasis. The mechanism of activation of MMPs is poorly understood, and their precise role in tendinopathy is unclear.
Molecular Events in Tendinopathy: A Role for Metalloproteases
About the Author: Merzesh Magra

Mr Merzesh Magra is an experienced Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon based in Lancaster specialising in hip and knee joint replacement surgery. He has 22 years of experience and is a results-oriented skilled surgeon and an ardent advocator of enhanced recovery principles.