Irreversible destruction of joint structures is a major feature of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Fibrillar collagens in bone, cartilage and other soft tissues are critical for optimal joint form and function. Several approaches can be used to ascertain the role of collagenases, matrix metalloproteinases, in proteolysis of joint collagens in arthritis. These approaches include identifying spontaneous genetic disorders of the enzymes and substrates in humans and animals, as well as engineering mutations in the genes that encode these proteins in mice. Insights gained from such studies can be used to design new therapies to interrupt these catabolic events.
(Dove Medical Press, 2007) Seton, Margaret; Krane, Stephen Martin
This review examines the use of zoledronic acid in the treatment of Paget’s disease of bone. It begins with a brief discussion of the theories of pathogenesis of Paget’s disease, its clinical manifestations, and the history of bisphosphonate treatment in this disorder. Risk of oversuppression of bone by the more potent bisphosphonates and their association with avascular necrosis of the jaw are noted.
