In situ hybridization studies allowed for the localization of three MMPs and the angiogenic factor VEGF during secondary ossification. MMPs were widely expressed during ossification of the secondary center, whereas expression of VEGF was restricted to later stages.
Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain.