The localization of matrix metalloproteinase-3 and tenascin in synovial membrane of the temporomandibular joint with internal derangement.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this investigation was to study the immunohistochemical localization of MMP-3 and tenascin in the temporomandibular joint and to compare it with control specimens.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Localizations of matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) and tenascin in the temporomandibular joint disc and the synovial membrane in 26 human temporomandibular joint samples (internal derangement of TMJ; n = 16, and control; n = 10) by an immunohistological method with monoclonal antibodies specific to human MMP-3 and tenascin.

RESULTS

MMP-3 was not distributed in control specimens while it was observed in the internal derangement cases. MMP-3 showed two staining profiles: (1) diffuse staining was observed within the stroma of severely deformed disc with osteophyte and/or disc displacement (three of 16 specimens); and (2) the localization was specifically detected on the surface of severely hypertrophic synovial membrane (six of 16 specimens). The latter localization pattern resembled that of the tenascin on the surface of the severely hypertrophic synovial membrane.

CONCLUSION

Comparative localization of MMP-3 and tenascin revealed intense staining for both in the synovial membrane presenting inflammation, proliferation and hypertrophy. These findings suggest that tissue repair and remodeling in the temporomandibular joint disc and the inflammatory hypertrophic reaction in the synovial membrane might proceed at the same time.