MMP and ADAM in rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by chronic proliferative synovitis, in which various proteinases are produced and attack the articular cartilage. Among the proteinases, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) may play a major role in the degradation of the extracellular matrix macromolecules in RA cartilage. However, recent studies have demonstrated the possible involvement of MMP-related metalloproteinases, i.e. a disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs) in the degradation. In the present article, we review recent information about the MMP and ADAM families and their implications for cartilage destruction in RA.