The Increased Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinases Associated with Elastin Degradation and Fibrosis of the Ligamentum Flavum in Patients with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Abstract

The current results suggest that the increased expression of active MMPs by the ligamentum flavum fibroblasts might be related to the elastin degradation and fibrosis of the ligamentum flavum in the patients who suffer with lumbar spinal stenosis.