Matrix metalloproteinase-13: A special focus on its regulation by signaling cascades and microRNAs in bone.

Bone remodeling is an orchestrated process involving osteoblasts and osteoclasts to maintain mineral homeostasis in the internal milieu, mediated chiefly by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). MMP13, one amongst the MMPs plays a premier role in bone remodeling, and mutations in MMP13 have been implicated in various pathologies including cancer and arthritis. Transcriptional activation of MMP13 gene is tightly regulated by several signaling cascade components. Post-transcriptional regulators such as microRNAs (miRNAs) have also been shown to regulate MMP13 expression under physiological and pathological conditions. Hence, this review provides an outline of the structure of MMP13 gene and its regulation by signaling components, transcription factors and miRNAs in bone.