ADAMTS-1, ADAMTS-5 and ADAMTS-13 are considered potential targets in the treatment of frozen shoulder

Background Frozen shoulder (FS) is a condition that causes shoulder pain and restricted movement, primarily due to inflammation, fibrosis, and adhesion of the shoulder joint capsule. It commonly affects individuals aged 30 to 60 years. Factors such as diabetes, obesity, and shoulder trauma are known risk factors. Although current treatments include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injections, and physical therapy, approximately 22.5% of patients do not respond well to conservative treatments and may require surgical intervention. The ADAMTS family is thought to play a significant role in joint diseases, and this study investigates its impact on FS. Methods This study employed the Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis method using genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data to analyze the causal relationships between the ADAMTS-5 and ADAMTS-13 genes and FS. By screening SNPs related to ADAMTS-1, ADAMTS-5, and ADAMTS-13, data analysis was performed using R software to verify the impact of these genes on FS pathogenesis. Additionally, co-location analysis was conducted to identify potential therapeutic targets. Results The MR analysis results indicate that ADAMTS-1-mediated ADAMTS-5 levels, along with the levels of ADAMTS-5 and ADAMTS-13 themselves, significantly increase the risk of FS. Co-expression localization analysis revealed that rs62217270, rs977151, and rs4962153 are potential targets for inhibiting ADAMTS-1, ADAMTS-5, and ADAMTS-13, respectively. Conclusion This study demonstrates that increased activity of the ADAMTS family may exacerbate the pathological changes in FS, and targeting the inhibition of these genes could offer a new direction for FS intervention. This research provides potential targeted therapeutic approaches for FS treatment and lays the foundation for future clinical studies.