ABSTRACT
Background: In this study, we describe and compare the different expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and 9 (MMP-2 and 9) in the epiligament (EL) of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) of the rat knee. Methods: Twelve 8-month old male Wistar rats were used in this study. The MCL and the external surface of the surrounded EL were precisely dissected. The description of the structure of EL and the expression of MMP-2 and 9 were implemented by light microscopic and imunohistochemical analysis. Results: In the ligament, a classic morphological structure was found. The expression of the MMP-2 and MMP-9 was fSound in the adventitia of the blood vessels and in the fibroblast in the EL. The reaction of MMP-2 was more intensive in comparison to MMP-9. Conclusion: We present one of the first study of immunohistochemical localization and distribution of the enzyme MMP-2 and 9 in EL tissue and furthermore we describe and compare the enzyme activity of MMP-2 and 9 in the EL.