Localization of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (92-kilodalton gelatinase/type IV collagenase = gelatinase B) in osteoclasts: implications for bone resorption.

Abstract

These results demonstrate that MMP-9 is produced by osteoclasts in the human bone tissues and suggest that it can degrade bone collagens in concert with MMP-1 and cysteine proteinases in the subosteoclastic microenvironment. This proteinase may play a role in the normal bone remodeling and pathologic bone resorption in the human diseases.