RESUMO
Objective To investigate the role of matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) in articular cartilage injury by observing the MMP-13 changes in articular cartilage in rat hindlimb after ischemia/reperfusion (IR). Methods Wistar rat model of left hindlimb IR was used. Fifty-six rats were randomly divided into sham operation group, 8-hour ischemia group, and groups that were reperfused for 3, 7, 14, 30 and 60 d after 8-hour ischemia. Articular cartilages of tibial plateau were taken to study MMP-13 and type Ⅱ collagen (COL Ⅱ) by immunohistochemical method (SP). The pathological changes of articular cartilages also were observed. Results Cartilage matrix was compact in sham operation group and 8-hour ischemia group. Articular facet became rough, cartilage matrix became looser, and chondrocytes were in disorder gradually after reperfusion, especially on day 30 and 60. MMP-13 of cartilages increased significantly in reperfusion groups (P