Matrix metalloproteinase-7 induces E-cadherin cleavage in acid-exposed primary human pharyngeal epithelial cells via the ROS/ERK/c-Jun pathway

• ROS is triggered when reflux occurs. • ROS regulates the transcription factor c-Jun via the ERK pathway. • The increase in MMP-7 that induces LPRD is induced via the ROS/ERK/c-Jun pathway. • This study revealed for the first time the expression mechanism of MMP-7, which is one of the causes of LPRD.