Objective: To evaluate the effects of some cytokines, TGF-β1 and drugs on matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) activities in culture medium of arthritic chondrocytes and synoviocytes. Methods: The chondrocyte and synoviocyte monolayers isolated from the cartilages and synovial fluids in 10 knee OA patients were treated with IL-1β TGF-β1, TNF-α, diclofenac acid, dexamethasone or doxycycline individually and together for 72 h. Zymography was used to determine the activities of MMP-2 and -9. Results: The chondrocyte monolayers produced MMP-2 and -9, while the synoviocytes only produced MMP-2. The MMP-9 activity was markedly enhanced by IL-1β TNF-α and diclofenac. IL-1β was the most effective stimulus, and had synergistic effect with TNF-α or diclifenac. MMP-2 activity was not affected. Doxcycline, TGF-β1 and dexamethasone could depress the activities of MMP-9 and MMP-2, and antagonize the enhancing effect of IL-1β TNF-α or diclofenac. Conclusion: IL-1β and TNF-α may play important roles degrading OA cartilage, while TGF-β1 and doxycycline may be protective factors.