Cartilage[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Quantitative Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and T2 Mapping for Evaluating Knee Subchondral Bone and Cartilage Changes in Chronic Kidney Disease.
Chiang SW, Hsu YJ, Peng YJ … +7 more , Hsu YC, Yeh SH, Chou YC, Lee HS, Liu YC, Wang CY, Huang GS
Cartilage · 2026 Feb · PMID 41747712 · Full text
ObjectiveTo investigate water and lipid composition changes in knee subchondral bone marrow and cartilage in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients compared with age- and sex-matched healthy controls using magnetic resona...
ObjectiveTo investigate water and lipid composition changes in knee subchondral bone marrow and cartilage in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients compared with age- and sex-matched healthy controls using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and T2 mapping.DesignThis IRB-approved case-control study included 20 CKD patients (12 men, 8 women) and 20 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (10 men, 10 women). MRS and T2 measurements were performed on regions of interest in the knee subchondral bone and cartilage. Water content, lipid composition, fat content, and the unsaturation index (UI) were quantified using LCModel. Differences between groups were assessed using independent samples -tests.ResultsThe CKD group showed a significantly higher lipid UI compared with controls ( = 0.035). In subgroup analysis, women with CKD had significantly higher water content (4.7 ppm), lower fat content, and higher lipid UI than female controls ( = 0.023, 0.048, and 0.018, respectively). No significant differences were observed between men with CKD and male controls (all > 0.4). Among CKD patients, men had significantly lower lipid composition (5.3 ppm) and lipid UI compared with women ( = 0.026 and 0.012, respectively). T2 values were significantly elevated in CKD patients ( = 0.016 for men; = 0.031 for women).ConclusionsQuantitative MRS and T2 mapping are feasible tools for assessing CKD-related changes in the knee joint. Increased unsaturated lipid content and water in subchondral bone may contribute to early degenerative changes.
Chondrocyte Senescence in Osteoarthritis: Potential Targets and Pharmacological Interventions.
Tan D, Guo J, Wang T … +4 more , Yang S, Liu J, Wang D, Li W
Cartilage · 2026 Feb · PMID 41747711 · Full text
PurposeThis review aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying chondrocyte senescence in osteoarthritis (OA) from 4 core perspectives: extracellular inflammation, mechanical overload and stress, intracellular metabolic a...
PurposeThis review aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying chondrocyte senescence in osteoarthritis (OA) from 4 core perspectives: extracellular inflammation, mechanical overload and stress, intracellular metabolic and signaling dysregulation, and genetics-related alterations. It further summarizes emerging therapeutic strategies targeting chondrocyte senescence to address the unmet clinical need for disease-modifying OA interventions.FindingsAccumulating evidence indicates that chondrocyte senescence drives OA progression through multiple interconnected mechanisms. These include amplification of inflammation and extracellular matrix degradation via the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), disruption of anabolic-catabolic homeostasis, dysregulation of mechanotransduction pathways under excessive mechanical load, and reshaping of intracellular metabolism and redox balance. Additional contributing mechanisms involve epigenetic dysregulation, non-coding RNA-mediated gene modulation, and impaired autophagy. Therapeutic approaches under preclinical or clinical investigation encompass senolytic and senomorphic agents, chondroprotective biological materials, genetic or RNA-based interventions, as well as strategies targeting SASP modulation and extracellular microenvironment repair.ConclusionsChondrocyte senescence serves as a central convergent mechanism in OA pathogenesis and a promising target for disease-modifying therapies. Advances in mechanistic understanding and senescence-targeted interventions offer new avenues for translational innovation, though critical challenges related to specificity, safety, and long-term efficacy require further resolution.
Uncovering the Impact of Center of Rotation of Angulation Location on High Tibial Osteotomy in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Potential Pathway for Improved Outcomes.
Janssen Y, Nguyen HC, Custers RJH … +11 more , van Egmond N, Kruyt MC, Sakkers RJB, Thooft J, Kloppenburg M, Blanco FJ, Haugen IK, Berenbaum F, Mastbergen SC, Weinans H, Bax EA
Cartilage · 2026 Feb · PMID 41709416 · Full text
ObjectiveLower limb malalignment accelerates the progression of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Knee realignment osteotomy is a well-established treatment for unicompartmental KOA with malalignment. Traditional planning in KO...
ObjectiveLower limb malalignment accelerates the progression of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Knee realignment osteotomy is a well-established treatment for unicompartmental KOA with malalignment. Traditional planning in KOA patients corrects deformities with an osteotomy at the metaphysis but overlooks Paley's approach, which targets the center of rotation angulation (CORA). Osteotomy at the metaphysis may induce secondary translational deformities, which remain unstudied in KOA patients. This study aims to identify the CORA in KOA patients with tibial malalignment.MethodsThirty tibiae (10 varus, 10 neutral, 10 valgus) from the IMI-APPROACH cohort were analyzed using computed tomography (CT) scans. The CORA, defined as the intersection of the proximal and distal mechanical axes, was identified. Translational deformity was calculated by multiplying the CORA-to-osteotomy distance by the tangent of the correction angle.ResultsAmong the varus tibiae, 9 out of 10 CORAs were located in the diaphysis, while 8 out of 10 valgus tibiae had their CORA in the diaphysis. When osteotomies were performed in the proximal metaphysis instead of the CORA location, secondary translational deformities of up to 3 cm were induced.ConclusionIn KOA patients with tibial malalignment, the CORA is predominantly located in the diaphysis rather than in the proximal metaphysis, where osteotomies are typically performed. This discrepancy leads to iatrogenic translational deformities. Future research should investigate the clinical impact of these deformities to optimize osteotomy planning and potentially improve long-term surgical outcomes.
Minced Cartilage Transplantation Demonstrated Improved Cartilage Repair Healing Compared to Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate on Hyaluronic Acid (HA-BMAC) for Full-Thickness Knee Cartilage Lesions: Clinical And Biological Outcomes in a Matched Cohort Study.
Lind M, Nielsen TG, Christensen BB … +1 more , Sørensen OG
Cartilage · 2026 Feb · PMID 41689853 · Full text
PurposeTo compare the clinical and biological outcomes of minced autologous cartilage transplantation versus hyaluronic acid-based scaffold with bone marrow aspirate concentrate (HA-BMAC) in the treatment of full-thickne...
PurposeTo compare the clinical and biological outcomes of minced autologous cartilage transplantation versus hyaluronic acid-based scaffold with bone marrow aspirate concentrate (HA-BMAC) in the treatment of full-thickness cartilage lesions of the knee.MethodsA total of 41 patients treated with minced autologous cartilage transplantation were retrospectively analyzed. Using propensity score matching, a control group of 41 patients was selected from a large cohort treated with HA-BMAC-based cartilage repair. Minced cartilage was harvested from unloaded cartilage and fibrin-glued into the defect. Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) was obtained from the iliac crest, centrifuge concentrated, and seeded onto a hyaluronic acid scaffold. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Knee Injury Outcome Score (KOOS) score. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluations were performed preoperatively with AMADEUS score and at 1-year follow-up using the Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART)-2 score.ResultsThe groups were comparable in terms of age, sex, lesion size, and location. Significant improvements were observed in all KOOS subscales in both cartilage repair groups, with no statistical difference between them at 1-year follow-up. MOCART-2 scores showed a trend toward superior biological healing in the minced cartilage group (mean score: 77) compared to the BMAC group (mean score: 73). Excellent healing (MOCART >80) was observed in 51% of minced cartilage cases versus 38% of BMAC cases.ConclusionBoth minced cartilage transplantation and HA-BMAC treatments resulted in comparable subjective clinical outcomes. However, minced cartilage transplantation demonstrated a tendency for enhanced biological healing based on MRI compared to HA-BMAC. This suggests potential advantages of minced cartilage transplantation over HA-BMAC cartilage repair.
Effect of Synovial Cell Fractionation on Tenascin-C Expression in Chondrocytes Under Coculture.
Kobayashi G, Iino T, Imanaka-Yoshida K … +1 more , Hasegawa M
Cartilage · 2026 Feb · PMID 41685557 · Full text
ObjectiveThis study investigated the effect of synovial cell fractionation on tenascin-C (TNC) expression in chondrocytes by coculturing human chondrocytes with synovial cells derived from osteoarthritis (OA) patients.De...
ObjectiveThis study investigated the effect of synovial cell fractionation on tenascin-C (TNC) expression in chondrocytes by coculturing human chondrocytes with synovial cells derived from osteoarthritis (OA) patients.DesignHuman cartilage and synovium were isolated from patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. Synovial cells were classified into CD68 positive- and negative groups using western blotting. Cocultures were performed for 7 days using Cell Culture Inserts. The expression of TNC, syndecan-4 (SDC4), and anabolic and catabolic factors was measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction. TNC levels in the medium were compared using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Flow cytometry examined M1 and M2 macrophage proportions in synovial cells immediately after isolation, after 7 days of monoculture, and after coculture.ResultsIn the CD68 positive group, TNC and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3 were significantly upregulated in cocultured chondrocytes, and SDC4 was significantly upregulated in cocultured synovial cells. TNC concentration in the medium was significantly higher in CD68 positive cocultures. M1 proportions were significantly higher in synovial cells immediately after isolation and in cocultured synovial cells than in those cultured alone.ConclusionsSynovial cell fractionation differentially affects TNC and SDC4 expression. Macrophage-like synovial cells (MLS) increase TNC expression in chondrocytes and may contribute to OA pathology.
Collagen Type II-Derived Telopeptides Cause Tissue Damage in Human Cartilage Cultures Established From Total Arthroplasty.
Mao J, Wang Q, Lu Y … +3 more , Chen B, Xu R, Ding L
Cartilage · 2026 Feb · PMID 41677315 · Full text
ObjectiveTo determine whether telopeptides of collagen type II could induce osteoarthritic tissue damage via receptor for the native protein by using human articular cartilage.MethodsCartilage slices were harvested from...
ObjectiveTo determine whether telopeptides of collagen type II could induce osteoarthritic tissue damage via receptor for the native protein by using human articular cartilage.MethodsCartilage slices were harvested from patients receiving total arthroplasty. Cartilage tissue cultures or primary chondrocyte cultures were treated with 30 µM N- or C-telopeptide (NT or CT) for 7 days or for 24 h. Loss of proteoglycan (PG) from cartilage was evaluated with 1,9-dimethylmethylene blue (DMMB) assay. Conditioned media or cell lysates were measured for levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), MMP-3 and MMP-13, or integrin beta-1 (ITGB1) with Western blotting or real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).ResultsEither NT or CT could induce significant loss of PG from cartilage than did phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), the delivery vehicle (18.45 ± 6.58 or 15.50 ± 4.91 µg PG/mg wet cartilage treated by NT or CT vs. 25.61 ± 4.14 µg PG/mg wet cartilage treated by PBS; = 0.037 for NT, = 0.004 for CT). Upregulation of MMP-3 and MMP-13 was induced by either NT or CT at 24 h (chondrocyte cultures) or Days 4 and 7 post-treatment (cartilage cultures). CT-induced stronger expression of ITGB1 in chondrocytes than did NT.ConclusionTelopeptides of collagen type II could damage human articular cartilage and upregulate MMP-3 and MMP-13. The catabolic effect of CT might be mediated by ITGB1.
Assessment of the Correlation between Macroscopic ICRS Grading and Histopathological OARSI Scoring in Osteoarthritic Cartilage: An Analysis.
Uppal G, Goyal T, Kumar A … +3 more , Sinha R, Kaur M, Kumar R
Cartilage · 2026 Feb · PMID 41673508 · Full text
AimsPrecise evaluation of cartilage damage is essential for the better management of osteoarthritis and treatment of articular cartilage. For accurate evaluation of cartilage damage, direct visual and/or histological ass...
AimsPrecise evaluation of cartilage damage is essential for the better management of osteoarthritis and treatment of articular cartilage. For accurate evaluation of cartilage damage, direct visual and/or histological assessment of articular cartilage is preferred over radiological or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) imaging. This study aimed to determine whether, and to what extent, visual macroscopic grading using International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) system correlates with microscopic evaluation using the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) histopathological scoring in an setting.MethodsA total of 70 articular cartilage sections obtained from 19 osteoarthritic human knees were macroscopically classified using the ICRS grading system and subsequently evaluated histologically using the OARSI scoring system. Spearman's correlation and bivariate linear regression analyses were performed to assess the association between ICRS and OARSI scores. The reproducibility, reliability, and inter- and intra-observer consistency of the OARSI scoring were further evaluated using Bland-Altman analysis, correlation coefficients, Cohen's kappa, Cronbach's alpha, and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC).ResultsQualitative assessment revealed a progressive increase in OARSI histological scores corresponding to higher ICRS grades. Spearman's correlation and regression analyses demonstrated a weak positive correlation between visual ICRS grading and histological OARSI scoring in early-stage lesions (ICRS grades 0-I; n = 29, r = 0.592, R² = 0.350, p < 0.001), a moderate correlation with the inclusion of moderate-stage lesions (ICRS grades 0-II; n = 47, r = 0.603, R² = 0.364, p < 0.001), and a strong correlation when severely degenerated cartilage was included (ICRS grades 0-III; n = 67, r = 0.811, R² = 0.657, < 0.001). The analysis of histological OARSI scores demonstrated narrow limits of agreement and minimal inter-observer variability in the Bland-Altman plot, excellent inter- and intra-observer agreement (ICC > 0.85), and almost perfect reliability (Cronbach's α > 0.95).ConclusionThe results of the study demonstrated a stage-dependent association between macroscopic and histological assessments of osteoarthritic cartilage. The findings indicate that macroscopic ICRS grading may serve as a reliable tool for evaluating moderate to advanced stages of cartilage degeneration. However, its utility in early-stage lesions appears limited due to a weaker correlation with OARSI histological scores. Thus, while macroscopic visual evaluation should be interpreted with caution in early-stage degeneration, histological assessment using the OARSI scoring system remains a valuable tool for accurately identifying early degenerative changes.
EUROVISCO Recommendations for the Use of Viscosupplementation with Hyaluronic Acid in the Management of Hip Osteoarthritis.
Migliore A, Raman R, Diraçoglù D … +9 more , Hamdan PC, Monfort J, Baron D, Brittberg M, Goncalves B, Bonin N, Chevalier X, Henrotin Y, Conrozier T
Cartilage · 2026 Feb · PMID 41656743 · Full text
BackgroundViscosupplementation (VS) by intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid (HA) is an increasingly used treatment of hip osteoarthritis (OA). However, there are no clear European recommendations for its use.Met...
BackgroundViscosupplementation (VS) by intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid (HA) is an increasingly used treatment of hip osteoarthritis (OA). However, there are no clear European recommendations for its use.MethodsTwelve members of the European Viscosupplementation Consensus Group (EUROVISCO), made up of rheumatologists, orthopedic surgeons, and rehabilitation physicians from European countries, were asked to make a therapeutic decision on 23 statements based on an exhaustive analysis of the literature and their clinical experience, using the Delphi method. For each statement, the strength of agreement and the level of consensus were calculated by the chairman of the groupResultsThe expert panel reached unanimous or high consensus, either for or against, on 16 of the proposed statements. The main ones are: Current evidence and the results of observational trials support the use of VS in patients with hip OA who do not require surgery. VS is more effective in cases of mild to moderate hip OA. Hip VS is safe and well tolerated, even with repeated injections. The outcome of VS depends on the viscosupplement used. A standard X-ray must be obtained before deciding on VS. VS must be performed under imaging guidance. A single injection regimen is preferable to repeat injections. VS can be considered for individuals who wish to postpone surgery. Hip replacement surgery should not be performed within 3 months of VS. VS should not be used to treat an osteoarthritis flare. VS is part of a multimodal treatment for hip OA.ConclusionThis set of recommendations is intended to help practitioners make decisions about HA VS in patients with OA.
Semaphorin 7A Regulates the Balance Between Cartilaginous and Fibrous Tissues in the Repair Process of Articular Cartilage Damage.
Hatada R, Abe K, Yamashita A … +5 more , Horike N, Obata S, Kumanogoh A, Matsuda S, Tsumaki N
Cartilage · 2026 Jan · PMID 41618920 · Full text
ObjectiveDamage to the joint-surface repair itself as fibrocartilage, a mixture of cartilaginous and fibrous tissues, which leads to debilitating conditions with persistent joint pain. The regulatory mechanisms that cont...
ObjectiveDamage to the joint-surface repair itself as fibrocartilage, a mixture of cartilaginous and fibrous tissues, which leads to debilitating conditions with persistent joint pain. The regulatory mechanisms that control the formation of these tissues are poorly understood.MethodsWe analyzed single-cell RNA-sequencing data from the repaired tissue formed in a chondral defect model of the monkey knee joint to identify genes specifically expressed in the repaired tissue. We used primary chondrocytes from semaphorin 7A (Sema7A) knockout mice to analyze the function of Sema7A in the dedifferentiation of chondrocytes . We introduced articular cartilage defect model in the knee joints in Sema7A knockout mice.ResultsSingle-cell RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that Sema7A is specifically expressed in the cartilaginous tissue in the repaired tissue formed in the articular cartilage defect. analysis showed that Sema7A autonomously induced the dedifferentiation of chondrocytes at passage 2, which is assumed to correspond to cartilaginous tissue cells, toward a fibroblastic state. In addition, Sema7A heteronomously suppressed the re-differentiation of passage 8 fibroblastic cells, which were assumed to correspond to fibrous tissue cells. Addition of anti-integrin β1 neutralizing antibody abolished Sema7A-induced suppression of and expression, suggesting that integrin β1 mediates Sema7A function. Sema7A knockout mice showed significantly improved healing in an articular surface defect model of the knee joints. Sema7A deletion increased cartilaginous tissue formation and decreased fibrous tissue formation in joint-surface defects.ConclusionsSema7A regulates the balance between cartilaginous and fibrous tissues during articular cartilage damage repair.
Knee Joint Distraction and Implantable Shock Absorbers for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review of Joint-Preserving Outcomes, Structural Changes, and Complications.
Anzillotti G, Pavone S, Queirazza P … +6 more , Conte P, Saccia F, Minelli M, Petrov P, Kon E, Di Matteo B
Cartilage · 2026 Jan · PMID 41618156 · Full text
ObjectiveTo systematically synthesize clinical, structural, biomarker, and safety outcomes of knee joint distraction (KJD) and implantable medial compartment shock absorbers (ISA) for tibiofemoral knee osteoarthritis (KO...
ObjectiveTo systematically synthesize clinical, structural, biomarker, and safety outcomes of knee joint distraction (KJD) and implantable medial compartment shock absorbers (ISA) for tibiofemoral knee osteoarthritis (KOA), and to summarize comparative evidence versus arthroplasty, high tibial osteotomy (HTO), orthoses, and non-operative care.DesignA PRISMA-based systematic review of PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library from inception to 1 October 2025 identified peer-reviewed clinical studies of KJD or ISA for tibiofemoral KOA. Two reviewers independently screened records, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Owing to substantial clinical and methodological heterogeneity and overlapping cohorts, a narrative synthesis was prespecified and no quantitative meta-analysis was performed.ResultsSeventeen studies (13 KJD, 4 ISA) reporting on approximately 400 patients met the inclusion criteria. KJD yielded clinically important 1- to 2-year improvements in WOMAC/KOOS and VAS pain, with arthroplasty-free survival of roughly 75% to 85% at 5 to 9 years in selected series, accompanied by increases in radiographic joint-space width and MRI-derived cartilage thickness in the most affected compartment. ISA consistently improved WOMAC pain and function and showed higher 2-year arthroplasty-free survival than HTO or non-operative comparators.ConclusionsCurrent evidence, based on small heterogeneous cohorts at low-to-moderate certainty, suggests that KJD and ISA can provide meaningful short- to mid-term symptom relief and delay arthroplasty in carefully selected patients. KJD and ISA address different indications and mechanisms and should be considered complementary rather than interchangeable joint-preserving strategies. Larger, independently replicated randomized trials with standardized structural and clinical endpoints are needed before widespread adoption.
Early Unloading After ACL Rupture and Prior to Surgical Restabilization in Mice Slows Post-Traumatic Osteoarthritis Progression.
Lin YY, Ju IS, Morfin C … +5 more , Jbeily EH, Sebastian A, Lee CA, Loots GG, Christiansen BA
Cartilage · 2026 Jan · PMID 41587748 · Full text
PURPOSE: People who sustain joint injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture often go on to develop post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). ACL injuries are often treated with ACL reconstruction, but there i...
PURPOSE: People who sustain joint injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture often go on to develop post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). ACL injuries are often treated with ACL reconstruction, but there is typically a gap of several weeks between injury and surgery. However, it is unclear how loading or unloading of the injured joint during the early postinjury period affects the progression of PTOA. The goal of this study was to determine how unloading between noninvasive ACL injury and surgical restabilization of the injured joint affects PTOA progression in mice. FINDINGS: Mice were subjected to noninvasive ACL injury or no injury followed by 1 week of hindlimb unloading (HLU) or normal cage activity. After 1 week of HLU or cage activity, mice underwent restabilization surgery or no surgery. ACL injury resulted in considerable epiphyseal trabecular bone loss regardless of HLU or cage activity. HLU groups exhibited significantly reduced chondrophyte/osteophyte formation, OA scoring, and synovitis at day 42. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that 1 week of HLU resulted in more neutrophils and less monocytes-macrophages in the injured joint. CONCLUSIONS: This study establishes that 1 week of HLU after ACL injury effectively slowed PTOA progression, suggesting that the early inflammatory response and joint instability play a key role in PTOA initiation and progression, and neutrophils and monocytes-macrophages play roles in the modulation. However, subsequent joint restabilization surgery caused greater inflammatory protease activity in the joint and exacerbated the loss of epiphyseal trabecular bone but did not significantly diminish OA score or synovitis.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Collagen Membrane Fixation Techniques in Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation: A Comparative Study.
Harada H
Cartilage · 2026 Jan · PMID 41548886 · Full text
BackgroundMatrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) relies on secure collagen membrane fixation for successful cartilage repair. However, comparative biomechanical data on fixation techniques remain limit...
BackgroundMatrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) relies on secure collagen membrane fixation for successful cartilage repair. However, comparative biomechanical data on fixation techniques remain limited.ObjectiveTo evaluate and compare the fixation strength of various collagen membrane fixation techniques used in autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) using an porcine model.DesignFifty porcine knees were used to test 17 different fixation methods for securing collagen membranes (Chondro-Gide®). Fixation techniques included various combinations of absorbable and non-absorbable anchors, different suture materials, knotted and knotless techniques, and absorbable pins. Membrane thickness was measured using digital micrometry. Tensile testing was performed using a digital force gauge until failure. Peak fixation strength and failure modes were recorded. Mean collagen membrane thickness was 0.492 ± 0.151 mm with moderate correlation to tensile strength (r = 0.554, < 0.001). Among tested methods, the 2.0-mm absorbable pin demonstrated significantly superior fixation strength compared to all other techniques (16.67 ± 4.17 N vs. 5.54-10.01 N, < 0.01). No significant differences were observed among various anchor-suture combinations. Failure occurred predominantly through membrane tearing at anchor insertion sites (47.1%) and suture fixation points (35.9%), rather than anchor pull-out or suture breakage.ConclusionsMost conventional fixation methods showed comparable mechanical performance, limited by the inherent properties of the collagen membrane. The 2.0-mm absorbable pin achieved superior fixation through a compression-embedding mechanism rather than simple surface fixation. These findings suggest that fixation strategies incorporating membrane compression into the subchondral bone may provide enhanced mechanical stability for ACI procedures.
Model Exploring the Mechanisms of Dextrose Prolotherapy: Fibroblasts Exposed to Clinical Concentrations of Dextrose Exhibit Significant Rebound Effects 48 Hours After Exposure.
Harting BR, Fox SK, Foster AD … +2 more , Motyka TM, Hinkelman AN
Cartilage · 2026 Jan · PMID 41548884 · Full text
ObjectiveHypertonic injection of dextrose is an alternative treatment for reducing pain and increasing function in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Dextrose prolotherapy (DP) is hypothesized to induce localized in...
ObjectiveHypertonic injection of dextrose is an alternative treatment for reducing pain and increasing function in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Dextrose prolotherapy (DP) is hypothesized to induce localized inflammation, leading to proliferation of cells in the joint space. This study explores how exposure to therapeutic doses of hypertonic dextrose affects fibroblast viability and proliferation, either directly or indirectly through exposure to secreted factors by dextrose-treated cells.DesignMRC-5 fibroblasts exposed for 15 to 120 minutes to dextrose solutions at concentrations of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, or 25% were compared to a media-only control. Metabolic activity was measured by the XTT assay as an indicator of cell viability and proliferation.ResultsFibroblasts exposed for any length of time at the highest concentration of dextrose (25%) or lower concentrations (10-20%) for longer durations exhibited significant reductions in cell viability compared to media controls. However, fibroblasts exposed to higher concentrations of dextrose (15-25%) for shorter durations (30-60 min) or lower concentrations (10%) for longer durations (120 min) exhibit an increased proliferative effect 48 hours after the initial experiment. Nascent fibroblasts exposed to supernatant fluid from cells directly treated with dextrose did not have a negative impact on cell viability compared to the media control.ConclusionsThese results suggest dextrose concentrations used for prolotherapy may stimulate proliferative responses in fibroblasts in support of theorized mechanisms of DP.
Possible Toxic Effect of Tranexamic Acid and Aminocaproic Acid on Articular Cartilage: An and Analysis.
Park JY, Lee S, Choi W
Cartilage · 2026 Jan · PMID 41529828 · Full text
ObjectiveTo compare the dose-dependent chondrotoxicity of tranexamic acid (TXA) and aminocaproic acid (ACA) and Design, human chondrocytes were exposed to TXA or ACA (0-50 mg/ml), and cytotoxicity was assessed. , a rat...
ObjectiveTo compare the dose-dependent chondrotoxicity of tranexamic acid (TXA) and aminocaproic acid (ACA) and Design, human chondrocytes were exposed to TXA or ACA (0-50 mg/ml), and cytotoxicity was assessed. , a rat model of monoiodoacetate-induced osteoarthritis was used to evaluate cartilage damage following intra-articular injections of TXA or ACA.Results, both TXA and ACA reduced chondrocyte viability in a dose-dependent manner, with significant cytotoxicity observed at concentrations ≥20 mg/ml. TXA was more toxic than ACA at these higher concentrations. Apoptosis increased markedly at 30 mg/ml for both agents. In the rat osteoarthritis model, joints treated with TXA or ACA showed greater cartilage erosion and matrix loss compared to controls, with TXA causing more severe damage.ConclusionBoth TXA and ACA are chondrotoxic in a dose-dependent manner, with TXA demonstrating greater potency. Lower concentrations (≤10 mg/ml) are recommended for topical use in cartilage-preserving surgery to minimize potential damage.
A Critical Appraisal of Reporting Bias in Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Addressing Knee Chondral Defects.
Gazula P, Dhunna DP, Nguyen KT … +7 more , Fink J, Yendluri A, Brown EL, Corvi JJ, Kelly JD, Li X, Parisien RL
Cartilage · 2025 Dec · PMID 41467740 · Full text
IntroductionKnee chondral defects are a common cause of pain and dysfunction. This study assessed the prevalence of spin and methodological quality of systematic reviews and meta-analyses on knee chondral defects in orth...
IntroductionKnee chondral defects are a common cause of pain and dysfunction. This study assessed the prevalence of spin and methodological quality of systematic reviews and meta-analyses on knee chondral defects in orthopedic literature.MethodsFollowing PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review was conducted in May 2025 using PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase. Reviews addressing knee chondral defects in orthopedics were included. Abstracts were evaluated for 15 spin types, and methodological quality was rated using AMSTAR 2. Data on PRISMA adherence, publication year, and Level of Evidence were extracted. Associations between study characteristics and spin were analyzed using tests, ANOVA, Fisher's exact tests, and Spearman's rank correlations.ResultsOf 238 studies identified, 21 reviews met criteria. Spin was present in 18 (85.7%). The most common types were type 3 (66.7%), type 5 (57.1%), and type 1 (52.4%). Misleading reporting occurred in 85.7%, misleading interpretation in 81.0%, and extrapolation in 52.4%. AMSTAR 2 rated 95.2% as "critically low" and 4.8% as "moderate." Journal impact factor correlated with spin presence ( = 0.016) and greater number of spin types ( = 0.012).Discussion/ConclusionMost reviews on knee chondral defects contained spin and were of poor quality, underscoring the need for critical appraisal and improved reporting.
Stage-Specific Expression of Histone Deacetylases in the Mouse Mandibular Condylar Cartilage.
Yang C, Li H, Kong J … +4 more , Wang M, Wang J, Guo X, Zhan Y
Cartilage · 2025 Dec · PMID 41454645 · Full text
ObjectiveThis study investigates the relationship between aging and histone deacetylases (HDACs) in mandibular condylar cartilage.MethodsMale C57BL/6 mice were divided into 4 age groups: postnatal day 21 (D21, postnatal...
ObjectiveThis study investigates the relationship between aging and histone deacetylases (HDACs) in mandibular condylar cartilage.MethodsMale C57BL/6 mice were divided into 4 age groups: postnatal day 21 (D21, postnatal development), 3 months (3M, young adulthood), 10 months (10M, middle aging), and 18 months (18M, late aging) to cover mandibular condylar cartilage aging stages. Mandibular condylar cartilage specimens were harvested and paraffin-embedded. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) and Safranin O-fast green staining were performed to assess morphological changes. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was applied to map the spatiotemporal expression of the HDAC1-11 in condylar cartilage.ResultsHDAC1, HDAC6, HDAC7, and HDAC9 were undetected in the mandibular condylar cartilage. HDAC2, 3, 4, 8, and 10 were only expressed 21 days after birth, with HDAC2 showing the strongest expression. Notably, HDAC5 expression was higher at 18 months. HDAC11 had consistent intensity until 18 months when it decreased. Other HDACs peaked at 21 days and declined with age.ConclusionThis study established the spatiotemporal expression pattern of HDAC1-11 in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) condyle during aging. It provides a foundation for further research on HDAC functions, offering insights into TMJ aging mechanisms.
#Cartilage: TikTok Videos on Cartilage Surgery Demonstrate Low Quality and Limited Educational Value.
El Kayali MKD, Bürck LV, Fahy S … +4 more , Getgood A, Bartek B, Jung T, Oehme S
Cartilage · 2025 Dec · PMID 41437667 · Full text
PurposeTo evaluate the quality, reliability, and educational value of TikTok videos on cartilage surgery. It was hypothesized that overall quality would be low but higher in videos by healthcare professionals (HCP) and t...
PurposeTo evaluate the quality, reliability, and educational value of TikTok videos on cartilage surgery. It was hypothesized that overall quality would be low but higher in videos by healthcare professionals (HCP) and those with educational content.MethodsTikTok was searched (September 22-25, 2025) using terms related to cartilage surgery and repair. Of 800 retrieved videos, 108 met inclusion criteria. Video metrics, uploader type, and content type were recorded. Quality and reliability were assessed using the DISCERN instrument, (JAMA) benchmark criteria, and Global Quality Score (GQS). Associations between video metrics and quality scores were analyzed using Spearman rank correlation, and Mann-Whitney U tests compared scores by uploader and content type.ResultsMost videos were posted by private users (61.1%) and focused on patient experiences (58.3%). Duration, shares, and views correlated positively with all quality metrics ( < 0.001). HCP videos achieved significantly higher DISCERN (47.5 vs. 26.0), JAMA (2.9 vs. 0.9), and GQS (3.2 vs. 1.8) scores but lower engagement (all < 0.001). Educational videos outperformed patient experience videos across all quality metrics (all < 0.01).ConclusionTikTok videos on cartilage surgery demonstrated low overall quality and reliability. Greater professional engagement is needed to enhance the accuracy and credibility of cartilage-related information on social media.
Starch-Gelatin-Based Scaffolds for Cartilage Defect Repair: An in vitro Study Supporting Its Potential Clinical Use.
Ugrinović V, Veljović Đ, Matić T … +4 more , Stevanović J, Wretenberg P, Ivarsson M, Andjelkov N
Cartilage · 2025 Dec · PMID 41437626 · Full text
ObjectiveThe aim was to investigate starch-gelatin hydrogels as scaffolds for chondrogenesis and compare these with other materials currently in use regarding cell retention and growth.MethodsTwo variants of starch-gelat...
ObjectiveThe aim was to investigate starch-gelatin hydrogels as scaffolds for chondrogenesis and compare these with other materials currently in use regarding cell retention and growth.MethodsTwo variants of starch-gelatin-scaffolds and one chitosan-based scaffold were fabricated by casting and freeze-drying. The resulting materials were analyzed with respect to physicochemical and mechanical properties, cut to size, and seeded with human articular chondrocytes. Cell retention and proliferation were evaluated at 1, 14, and 42 days of culturing. Extracellular matrix production was analyzed by histo- and immunohistochemistry. Comparisons were made with that of commercially available hyaluronan- (Hyalofast) and collagen-based (ChondroGide) scaffolds, and synthesized chitosan hydrogels.ResultsThe starch-gelatin materials exhibited highly porous structures stabilized by hydrogen bonding, with swelling behavior similar to native cartilage and favorable mechanical handling properties. Despite differences in initial cell retention, all materials except chitosan supported robust cell growth, reaching similar levels after 14 days. No significant changes were observed between 14 and 42 days with the exception of Hyalofast showing decreased cell number. Chitosan-supported cell growth was more linear over the culture period, but resulted in only half the cell number by day 42 compared with the other materials. Without cells, Hyalofast and one variant of the starch/gelatin hydrogel degraded before day 42. starch/gelatin scaffolds showed collagen I, II, and aggrecan deposition.ConclusionStarch-gelatin scaffolds displayed favorable mechanical properties, supported cell growth comparable to commercial scaffolds, and promoted deposition of cartilage-specific extracellular matrix, highlighting their chondrogenic potential.
The Role of THBS-3 in the Regulation of Cartilage Angiogenesis and Fibrosis Via the TGF-β/Smad2/3 Pathway in Osteoarthritis.
Yan J, Mobasheri A, Zhu X … +5 more , Lu H, Wang Y, Wang S, Zhang Z, Zhao Y
Cartilage · 2025 Dec · PMID 41367171 · Full text
ObjectiveAngiogenesis plays a crucial role in osteoarthritis (OA) by promoting inflammatory cell invasion, supporting neo-innervation and joint tissue fibrosis, and contributing to structural damage and pain. Thrombospon...
ObjectiveAngiogenesis plays a crucial role in osteoarthritis (OA) by promoting inflammatory cell invasion, supporting neo-innervation and joint tissue fibrosis, and contributing to structural damage and pain. Thrombospondin-3 (THBS-3) is highly expressed in OA cartilage. However, the mechanisms responsible for upregulation of THBS-3 in OA are unclear.DesignOA chondrocytes and a collagen-induced osteoarthritis (CIOA) mouse model were used as and models, respectively. THBS-3 was used to treat chondrocytes and . To explore the mechanism of THBS-3 in chondrocytes treatment, we pretreated chondrocytes with a THBS-3 inhibitor and assessed cartilage metabolic function and then analyzed related indicators of vascularization and chondrofibrosis.ResultsProteomics revealed higher THBS-3 expression in the cartilage of CIOA mice than in that of normal mice. Compared with those from healthy individuals, chondrocytes from OA patients presented significantly increased protein expression of THBS-3. In both and experiments, THBS-3 promoted matrix metalloproteinase-13 and disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin-5, suppressed aggrecan, and promoted the vascularization and chondrofibrosis in dysfunctional chondrocytes from osteoarthritic chondrocytes. THBS-3 activated the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway. The pretreatment of OA chondrocytes with a TGF-β inhibitor before THBS-3 exposure reversed these changes.ConclusionTHBS-3 promotes the angiogenesis and fibrosis of chondrocytes by activating the TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathway.
Combining Machine-Learning Assessment of Multiple MRI Pathologies and Clinical Phenotypes for Predicting Joint Replacement in Knee Osteoarthritis: Data From the Osteoarthritis Initiative.
D'Assignies G, Demanse D, Saxer F … +7 more , Laurent D, Zille P, Vesoul T, Cordelle P, Herpe G, Conaghan PG, Schieker M
Cartilage · 2025 Dec · PMID 41351291 · Full text
ObjectiveArtificial intelligence offers opportunities for timesaving assessments of multiple pathologies in large magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data sets in knee osteoarthritis (KOA). This study evaluated their preval...
ObjectiveArtificial intelligence offers opportunities for timesaving assessments of multiple pathologies in large magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data sets in knee osteoarthritis (KOA). This study evaluated their prevalence within pre-defined clinical phenotypes and their predictive value for knee replacement (KR).DesignBaseline MRIs ( = 8,667) from the Osteoarthritis Initiative were analyzed using a machine-learning (ML) algorithm. The presence of pathologies (menisci, anterior cruciate, medial collateral ligaments, cartilage, etc.) was assessed in previously identified phenotypic clusters (a post-traumatic, metabolic, and age-defined phenotype). The value of both, cluster allocation and joint pathology for KR prediction was evaluated using supervised ML models and time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curves.ResultsCompared to the population average, the metabolic cluster had a higher prevalence of cartilage lesions, while the post-traumatic one had more medial meniscal damage. Random forest models showed the best prediction (area under the curve 0.837, test set at 2 years). The top predictors for KR were meniscal position (relative to the border of the tibial plateau), severe joint effusion, medial femorotibial cartilage lesions, and metabolic phenotype. These features defined patients at high risk of KR with an estimated KR rate at 5 years of 10% vs 3% in the high- and low-risk groups based on a predictive risk score including all analyzed structures.ConclusionsThis ML-enabled assessment of multiple MRI pathologies in a large KOA data set highlights the importance of meniscal pathologies and markers of inflammation, in addition to cartilage assessments and clinical information for patient stratification and improved prediction of KOA progression to KR.
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