Neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin is expressed in osteoarthritis and forms a complex with matrix metalloproteinase 9

Abstract

Our findings demonstrate that the HMW gelatinase activity in OA SF represents a complex of NGAL and MMP-9. The ability of NGAL to protect MMP-9 activity is relevant to cartilage matrix degradation in OA and may represent an important mechanism by which NGAL may contribute to the loss of cartilage matrix proteins in OA.