The role of inflammatory mediators and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the progression of osteoarthritis

Highlights • Osteoarthritis (OA) traditionally known to be a disease prevalent in geriatric populations and mechanical injury is currently observed to have significant connections relevant to inflammation and free radical biology.• Pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines and their involvement in triggering the enhanced matrix breakdown through excessive matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) activation is a hallmark of osteoarthritic cartilage lesions.• Imbalance between MMP/TIMP (tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases) ratio increased free radical generation ultimately precipitate into aggravated OA condition.• MMP inhibitors have been suggested as therapeutic treatments for osteoarthritis.