The sustained increase in expression and deposition of COL3A1, LUM, and MMP13 in the regions adjacent to the lesion, combined with a regional decrease in DCN expression seen throughout the study period, demonstrates ongoing disturbances in tissue metabolism and structure for up to 16 weeks following surgical partial transection of the superficial flexor tendons in this model of tendinopathy. This evidence concerns the gene MMP13 and disease of the tendon.