Induction of an osteoarthritis-like phenotype and degradation of phosphorylated Smad3 by Smurf2 in transgenic mice

Vitamin D prevents articular cartilage erosion by regulating collagen II turnover through TGF-β1 in ovariectomized rats

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of vitamin D on turnover of articular cartilage with ovariectomy (OVX) induced OA, and to investigate transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) as a possible underlying mechanism mediated by 1α,25(OH)2D3.

DESIGN

Sixty-six rats were randomly allocated into seven groups: sham plus control diet (SHAM+CTL), OVX+CTL diet, sham plus vitamin D-deficient (VDD) diet, OVX+VDD diet, and three groups of ovariectomized rats treated with different doses of 1α,25(OH)2D3. The cartilage erosion and the levels of serum 17β-estradiol, 1α,25(OH)2D3 and C-telopeptide of type II collagen (CTX-II) were measured. TGF-β1, type II Collagen (CII), matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-9,-13 in articular cartilage were assessed by immunohistochemistry. TGF-β1 and CTX-II expression were measured in articular cartilage chondrocytes treated with/without tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), 1α,25(OH)2D3, and TGF-β receptor inhibitor (SB505124) in vitro.

RESULTS

Cartilage erosion due to OVX was significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner by 1α,25(OH)2D3 supplementation, and exacerbated by VDD. The expressions of TGF-β1 and CII in articular cartilage were suppressed by OVX and VDD, and rescued by 1α,25(OH)2D3 supplementation. The expression of MMP-9,-13 in articular cartilage increased with OVX and VDD, and decreased with 1α,25(OH)2D3 supplementation. In vitro experiments showed that 1α,25(OH)2D3 increased the TGF-β1 expression of TNF-α stimulated chondrocytes in a dose-dependent manner. 1α,25(OH)2D3 significantly counteracted the increased CTX-II release due to TNF-α stimulation, and this effect was significantly suppressed by SB505124.

CONCLUSION

VDD aggravated cartilage erosion, and 1α,25(OH)2D3 supplementation showed protective effects in OVX-induced OA partly through the TGF-β1 pathway.

Skeletal Characterization of Smurf2-Deficient Mice and In Vitro Analysis of Smurf2-Deficient Chondrocytes

Overexpression of Smad ubiquitin regulatory factor 2 (Smurf2) in chondrocytes was reported to cause spontaneous osteoarthritis (OA) in mice. However, it is unclear whether Smurf2 is involved in bone and cartilage homeostasis and if it is required for OA pathogenesis. Here we characterized age-related changes in the bone and articular cartilage of Smurf2-deficient (MT) mice by microCT and histology, and examined whether reduced Smurf2 expression affected the severity of OA upon surgical destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM). Using immature articular chondrocytes (iMAC) from MT and wild-type (WT) mice, we also examined how Smurf2 deficiency affects chondrogenic and catabolic gene expressions and Smurf2 and Smurf1 proteins upon TGF-β3 or IL-1β treatment in culture. We found no differences in cortical, subchondral and trabecular bone between WT and MT in young (4 months) and old mice (16–24 months). The articular cartilage and age-related alterations between WT and MT were also similar. However, 2 months following DMM, young MT showed milder OA compared to WT (~70% vs ~30% normal or exhibiting only mild OA cartilage phenotype). The majority of the older WT and MT mice developed moderate/severe OA 2 months after DMM, but a higher subset of aged MT cartilage (27% vs. 9% WT) remained largely normal. Chondrogenic gene expression (Sox9, Col2, Acan) trended higher in MT iMACs than WT with/without TGF-β3 treatment. IL-1β treatment suppressed chondrgenic gene expression, but Sox9 expression in MT remained significantly higher than WT. Smurf2 protein in WT iMACs increased upon TGF-β3 treatment and decreased upon IL-1β treatment in a dose-dependent manner. Smurf1 protein elevated more in MT than WT upon TGF-β3 treatment, suggesting a potential, but very mild compensatory effect. Overall, our data support a role of Smurf2 in regulating OA development but suggest that inhibiting Smurf2 alone may not be sufficient to prevent or consistently mitigate post-traumatic OA across a broad age range.

Analysis of new bone, cartilage, and fibrosis tissue in healing murine allografts using whole slide imaging and a new automated histomorphometric algorithm

Histomorphometric analysis of histologic sections of normal and diseased bone samples, such as healing allografts and fractures, is widely used in bone research. However, the utility of traditional semi-automated methods is limited because they are labor-intensive and can have high interobserver variability depending upon the parameters being assessed, and primary data cannot be re-analyzed automatically. Automated histomorphometry has long been recognized as a solution for these issues, and recently has become more feasible with the development of digital whole slide imaging and computerized image analysis systems that can interact with digital slides. Here, we describe the development and validation of an automated application (algorithm) using Visiopharm’s image analysis system to quantify newly formed bone, cartilage, and fibrous tissue in healing murine femoral allografts in high-quality digital images of H&E/alcian blue-stained decalcified histologic sections. To validate this algorithm, we compared the results obtained independently using OsteoMeasure^TM and Visiopharm image analysis systems. The intraclass correlation coefficient between Visiopharm and OsteoMeasure was very close to one for all tissue elements tested, indicating nearly perfect reproducibility across methods. This new algorithm represents an accurate and labor-efficient method to quantify bone, cartilage, and fibrous tissue in healing mouse allografts.

Lithium Chloride Dependent Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 Inactivation Links Oxidative DNA Damage, Hypertrophy and Senescence in Human Articular Chondrocytes and Reproduces Chondrocyte Phenotype of Obese Osteoarthritis Patients

Introduction

Recent evidence suggests that GSK3 activity is chondroprotective in osteoarthritis (OA), but at the same time, its inactivation has been proposed as an anti-inflammatory therapeutic option. Here we evaluated the extent of GSK3β inactivation in vivo in OA knee cartilage and the molecular events downstream GSK3β inactivation in vitro to assess their contribution to cell senescence and hypertrophy.

Methods

In vivo level of phosphorylated GSK3β was analyzed in cartilage and oxidative damage was assessed by 8-oxo-deoxyguanosine staining. The in vitro effects of GSK3β inactivation (using either LiCl or SB216763) were evaluated on proliferating primary human chondrocytes by combined confocal microscopy analysis of Mitotracker staining and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production (2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate staining). Downstream effects on DNA damage and senescence were investigated by western blot (γH2AX, GADD45β and p21), flow cytometric analysis of cell cycle and light scattering properties, quantitative assessment of senescence associated β galactosidase activity, and PAS staining.

Results

In vivo chondrocytes from obese OA patients showed higher levels of phosphorylated GSK3β, oxidative damage and expression of GADD45β and p21, in comparison with chondrocytes of nonobese OA patients. LiCl mediated GSK3β inactivation in vitro resulted in increased mitochondrial ROS production, responsible for reduced cell proliferation, S phase transient arrest, and increase in cell senescence, size and granularity. Collectively, western blot data supported the occurrence of a DNA damage response leading to cellular senescence with increase in γH2AX, GADD45β and p21. Moreover, LiCl boosted 8-oxo-dG staining, expression of IKKα and MMP-10.

Conclusions

In articular chondrocytes, GSK3β activity is required for the maintenance of proliferative potential and phenotype. Conversely, GSK3β inactivation, although preserving chondrocyte survival, results in functional impairment via induction of hypertrophy and senescence. Indeed, GSK3β inactivation is responsible for ROS production, triggering oxidative stress and DNA damage response.

Carboxyl terminus of Hsp70-interacting protein regulation of osteoclast formation in mice through promotion of tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 protein degradation

OBJECTIVE

Carboxyl terminus of Hsp70-interacting protein (CHIP or STUB1) is an E3 ligase that regulates the stability of several proteins involved in tumor growth and metastasis. However, the role of CHIP in bone growth and bone remodeling in vivo has not been reported. This study was undertaken to investigate the role and mechanism of CHIP in regulation of bone mass and bone remodeling.

METHODS

The bone phenotype of Chip(-/-) mice was assessed by histologic, histomorphometric, and micro-computed tomographic analyses. The mechanism by which CHIP regulates the degradation of tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) and the inhibition of NF-κB signaling was examined by immunoprecipitation, Western blot, and luciferase reporter assays.

RESULTS

Deletion of the Chip gene led to an osteopenic phenotype and increased osteoclast formation. TRAF6, an adaptor protein that is a key regulator of NF-κB signaling and is critical for RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis, was up-regulated in osteoclasts from Chip(-/-) mice. CHIP interacted with TRAF6 to promote TRAF6 ubiquitination and proteasome degradation. Further, CHIP inhibited p65 nuclear translocation, leading to the repression of TRAF6-mediated NF-κB transcription.

CONCLUSION

CHIP inhibits NF-κB signaling by promoting TRAF6 degradation and plays an important role in osteoclastogenesis and bone remodeling. These findings suggest that CHIP may be a novel therapeutic target in bone loss-associated disorders.

TGF-β signaling and the development of osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common joint degenerative disease affecting the whole joint structure, including articular cartilage, subchondral bone and synovial tissue. Although extensive work has been done in recent years to explore the molecular mechanism underlying this disease, the pathogenesis of OA is still poorly understood and currently, there is no effective disease-modifying treatment for OA. Recently, both in vitro and in vivo studies suggest that confirmed (TGF-β)/SMAD pathway plays a critical role during OA development. This short review will focus on the function and signaling mechanisms of TGF-β/SMAD pathway in articular chondrocytes, mesenchymal progenitor cells of subchondral bone and synovial lining cells during OA development.

Distribution and alteration of lymphatic vessels in knee joints of normal and osteoarthritic mice

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the distribution and alteration of lymphatic vessels and draining function in knee joints of normal and osteoarthritic mice.

METHODS

For the mouse models of osteoarthritis (OA), we used mice with meniscal-ligamentous injury or mice with conditional knockout of the gene for cartilage transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) type II receptor. The severity of cartilage loss and joint destruction was assessed histologically. Capillary and mature lymphatic vessels were identified and analyzed using double immunofluorescence staining and a whole-slide digital imaging system. Lymphatic drainage of knee joints was examined using near-infrared lymphatic imaging. Patient joint specimens obtained during total knee or hip arthroplasty were evaluated to verify the content validity of the mouse findings.

RESULTS

Lymphatic vessels were distributed in soft tissues (mainly around the joint capsule, ligaments, fat pads, and muscles of normal knees). The number of lymphatic vessels, particularly the number of capillaries, was significantly increased in joints of mice with mild OA, while the number of mature lymphatic vessels was markedly decreased in joints of mice with severe OA. OA knees exhibited significantly decreased lymph clearance. The number of both capillary and mature lymphatic vessels was significantly decreased in the joints of patients with OA.

CONCLUSION

The whole-slide digital imaging system is a powerful tool, enabling the identification and assessment of lymphatic microvasculature in the entire mouse knee. Lymphatic capillaries and mature vessels are present in various soft tissues around articular spaces. Abnormalities of lymphatic vessels and draining function, including significantly reduced numbers of mature vessels and impaired clearance, are present in OA joints.

Tgif1 and SnoN modified chondrocytes or stem cells for tendon-bone insertion regeneration

Tendon-bone insertion injuries are a common occurrence but rarely heal, despite the many strategies that have been employed. The tendon-bone insertion consists of four types of tissues: tendon, fibrocartilage, mineral fibrocartilage and bone, making it hard to regenerate. The key to reconstructing the tendon enthesis is to rebuild the gradations of cell type, collagen type, mineral content and collagen fiber orientation. Chondrocytes were found to be able to differentiate into tendon and bone tissues upon special stimulation, which offers promise for tendon enthesis regeneration. Tgif1 is a key factor that represses the expression of the cartilage master gene Sox9, which is induced by TGFβs, and changes the expression rate of Sox9 versus Scx, eventually promoting fibrogenesis. SnoN is a key factor that is induced by TGFβs to inhibit the hypertrophy of chondrocytes and therefore bone formation. It appears that the induction of Tgif1 and the repression of SnoN can cause chondrocytes to differentiate into tendon and bone tissues. Moreover, a gradation of the expression levels of Tgif1 and SnoN in chondrocytes may create a gradation of the tissue from tendon to fibrocartilage to bone. Consequently, we propose that a gradation of gene-modified chondrocytes (Tgif1-inducing cells, primary cells, SnoN-repressing cells) or stem cells that arise from a gradation of stimulation (Tgif1 induction and SnoN repression) will aid in the regeneration of the tendon-bone insertion.

Inhibition of TGF-β signaling in mesenchymal stem cells of subchondral bone attenuates osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a highly prevalent and debilitating joint disorder. There is no effective medical therapy for osteoarthritis due to limited understanding of osteoarthritis pathogenesis. We show that TGF–β1 is activated in the subchondral bone in response to altered mechanical loading in an anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) osteoarthritis mouse model. TGF–β1 concentrations also increased in human osteoarthritis subchondral bone. High concentrations of TGF–β1 induced formation of nestin⁺ mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) clusters leading to aberrant bone formation accompanied by increased angiogenesis. Transgenic expression of active TGF–β1 in osteoblastic cells induced osteoarthritis. Inhibition of TGF–β activity in subchondral bone attenuated degeneration of osteoarthritis articular cartilage. Notably, knockout of the TGF–β type II receptor (TβRII) in nestin⁺ MSCs reduced development of osteoarthritis in ACLT mice. Thus, high concentrations of active TGF–β1 in the subchondral bone initiated the pathological changes of osteoarthritis, inhibition of which could be a potential therapeutic approach.

Cyclic AMP enhances TGFβ responses of breast cancer cells by upregulating TGFβ receptor I expression

Cellular functions are regulated by complex networks of many different signaling pathways. The TGFβ and cAMP pathways are of particular importance in tumor progression. We analyzed the cross-talk between these pathways in breast cancer cells in 2D and 3D cultures. We found that cAMP potentiated TGFβ-dependent gene expression by enhancing Smad3 phosphorylation. Higher levels of total Smad3, as observed in 3D-cultured cells, blocked this effect. Two Smad3 regulating proteins, YAP (Yes-associated protein) and TβRI (TGFβ receptor 1), were responsive to cAMP. While YAP had little effect on TGFβ-dependent expression and Smad3 phosphorylation, a constitutively active form of TβRI mimicked the cAMP effect on TGFβ signaling. In 3D-cultured cells, which show much higher levels of TβRI and cAMP, TβRI was unresponsive to cAMP. Upregulation of TβRI expression by cAMP was dependent on transcription. A proximal TβRI promoter fragment was moderately, but significantly activated by cAMP suggesting that cAMP increases TβRI expression at least partially by activating TβRI transcription. Neither the cAMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB) nor the TβRI-regulating transcription factor Six1 was required for the cAMP effect. An inhibitor of histone deacetylases alone or together with cAMP increased TβRI expression by a similar extent as cAMP alone suggesting that cAMP may exert its effect by interfering with histone acetylation. Along with an additive stimulatory effect of cAMP and TGFβ on p21 expression an additive inhibitory effect of these agents on proliferation was observed. Finally, we show that mesenchymal stem cells that interact with breast cancer cells can simultaneously activate the cAMP and TGFβ pathways. In summary, these data suggest that combined effects of cAMP and TGFβ, as e.g. induced by mesenchymal stem cells, involve the upregulation of TβRI expression on the transcriptional level, likely due to changes in histone acetylation. As a consequence, cancer cell functions such as proliferation are affected.

Chondrocyte-intrinsic Smad3 represses Runx2-inducible matrix metalloproteinase 13 expression to maintain articular cartilage and prevent osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

To identify mechanisms by which Smad3 maintains articular cartilage and prevents osteoarthritis.

METHODS

A combination of in vivo and in vitro approaches was used to test the hypothesis that Smad3 represses Runx2-inducible gene expression to prevent articular cartilage degeneration. Col2-Cre;Smad3(fl/fl) mice allowed study of the chondrocyte-intrinsic role of Smad3 independently of its role in the perichondrium or other tissues. Primary articular cartilage chondrocytes from Smad3(fl/fl) mice and ATDC5 chondroprogenitor cells were used to evaluate Smad3 and Runx2 regulation of matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP-13) messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression.

RESULTS

Chondrocyte-specific reduction of Smad3 caused progressive articular cartilage degeneration due to imbalanced cartilage matrix synthesis and degradation. In addition to reduced type II collagen mRNA expression, articular cartilage from Col2-Cre;Smad3(fl/fl) mice was severely deficient in type II collagen and aggrecan protein due to excessive MMP-13-mediated proteolysis of these key cartilage matrix constituents. Normally, transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signals through Smad3 to confer a rapid and dynamic repression of Runx2-inducible MMP-13 expression. However, we found that in the absence of Smad3, TGFβ signals through p38 and Runx2 to induce MMP-13 expression.

CONCLUSION

Our findings elucidate a mechanism by which Smad3 mutations in humans and mice cause cartilage degeneration and osteoarthritis. Specifically, Smad3 maintains the balance between cartilage matrix synthesis and degradation by inducing type II collagen expression and repressing Runx2-inducible MMP-13 expression. Selective activation of TGFβ signaling through Smad3, rather than p38, may help to restore the balance between matrix synthesis and proteolysis that is lost in osteoarthritis.

A SMAD3 gene polymorphism is related with osteoarthritis in a Northeast Chinese population

Variants in the SMAD family member 3 (SMAD3) have recently been reported to be associated with osteoarthritis (OA) in European populations. However, the results are contestable. To assess the role of such variants in SMAD3 in OA susceptibility in peripheral joints OA, we conducted a case-control study in a Northeast Chinese population. The SMAD3 SNP was genotyped in patients who had primary symptomatic OA with radiographic confirmation and clinical symptom and in controls, and the associations were examined. A total of 111 knee OA patients, 121 hand OA patients and 236 controls were genotyped. Statistically significant difference was detected in genotype and allele frequencies between OA and control groups in the population. There were significant association for knee OA OR = 3.68 (95 % CI 2.03-6.70; p < 0.001) and for hand OA OR = 3.60 (95 % CI 2.01, 6.44; p < 0.001). The association was also positive even after stratification by sex except for male population of knee OA. Our data indicated that genetic variation in the SMAD3 gene is involved in pathogenesis of both knee OA and hand OA in Northeast Chinese population, which is consistent with in European populations.

Use of a whole-slide imaging system to assess the presence and alteration of lymphatic vessels in joint sections of arthritic mice

We investigated the presence and alteration of lymphatic vessels in joints of arthritic mice using a whole-slide imaging system. Joints and long bone sections were cut from paraffin blocks of two mouse models of arthritis: meniscal-ligamentous injury (MLI)-induced osteoarthritis (OA) and TNF transgene (TNF-Tg)-induced rheumatoid arthritis (RA). MLI-OA mice were fed a high fat diet to accelerate OA development. TNF-Tg mice were treated with lymphatic growth factor VEGF-C virus to stimulate lymphangiogenesis. Sections were double immunofluorescence stained with anti-podoplanin and alpha-smooth muscle actin antibodies. The area and number of lymphatic capillaries and mature lymphatic vessels were determined using a whole-slide imaging system and its associated software. Lymphatic vessels in joints were distributed in soft tissues mainly around the joint capsule, ligaments, fat pads and muscles. In long bones, enriched lymphatic vessels were present in the periosteal areas adjacent to the blood vessels. Occasionally, lymphatic vessels were observed in the cortical bone. Increased lymphatic capillaries, but decreased mature lymphatic vessels, were detected in both OA and RA joints. VEGF-C treatment increased lymphatic capillary and mature vessel formation in RA joints. Our findings suggest that the lymphatic system may play an important role in arthritis pathogenesis and treatment.

Lead induces an osteoarthritis-like phenotype in articular chondrocytes through disruption of TGF-β signaling

Lead remains a significant environmental toxin, and we believe we may have identified a novel target of lead toxicity in articular chondrocytes. These cells are responsible for the maintenance of joint matrix, and do so under the regulation of TGF-β signaling. As lead is concentrated in articular cartilage, we hypothesize that it can disrupt normal chondrocyte phenotype through suppression of TGF-β signaling. These experiments examine the effects of lead exposure in vivo and in vitro at biologically relevant levels, from 1 nM to 10 µM on viability, collagen levels, matrix degrading enzyme activity, TGF-β signaling, and articular surface morphology. Our results indicate that viability was unchanged at levels ≤100 µM Pb, but low and high level lead in vivo exposure resulted in fibrillation and degeneration of the articular surface. Lead treatment also decreased levels of type II collagen and increased type X collagen, in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, MMP13 activity increased in a dose-dependent manner. Active caspase 3 and 8 were dose-dependently elevated, and treatment with 10 µM Pb resulted in increases of 30% and 500%, respectively. Increasing lead treatment resulted in a corresponding reduction in TGF-β reporter activity, with a 95% reduction at 10µM. Levels of phosphoSmad2 and 3 were suppressed in vitro and in vivo and lead dose-dependently increased Smurf2. These changes closely parallel those seen in osteoarthritis. Over time this phenotypic shift could compromise maintenance of the joint matrix.

Ski inhibits TGF-β/phospho-Smad3 signaling and accelerates hypertrophic differentiation in chondrocytes

Since transforming growing factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad signaling inhibits chondrocyte maturation, endogenous negative regulators of TGF-β signaling are likely also important regulators of the chondrocyte differentiation process. One such negative regulator, Ski, is an oncoprotein that is known to inhibit TGF-β/Smad3 signaling via its interaction with phospho-Smad3 and recruitment of histone deacetylases (HDACs) to the DNA binding complex. Based on this, we hypothesized that Ski inhibits TGF-β signaling and accelerates maturation in chondrocytes via recruitment of HDACs to transcriptional complexes containing Smads. We tested this hypothesis in chick upper sternal chondrocytes (USCs), where gain and loss of Ski expression experiments were performed. Over-expression of Ski not only reversed the inhibitory effect of TGF-β on the expression of hypertrophic marker genes such as type X collagen (colX) and osteocalcin, it induced these genes basally as well. Conversely, knockdown of Ski by RNA interference led to a reduction of colX and osteocalcin expression under basal conditions. Furthermore, Ski blocked TGF-β induction of cyclinD1 and caused a basal up-regulation of Runx2, consistent with the observed acceleration of hypertrophy. Regarding mechanism, not only does Ski associate with phospho-Smad2 and 3, but its association with phospho-Smad3 is required for recruitment of HDAC4 and 5. Implicating this recruitment of HDACs in the phenotypic effects of Ski in chondrocytes, the HDAC inhibitor SAHA reversed the up-regulation of colX and osteocalcin in Ski over-expressing cells. These results suggest that inhibition of TGF-β signaling by Ski, which involves its association with phospho-Smad3 and recruitment of HDAC4 and 5, leads to accelerated chondrocyte differentiation.

Metabolic syndrome meets osteoarthritis

Metabolic osteoarthritis (OA) has now been characterized as a subtype of OA, and links have been discovered between this phenotype and metabolic syndrome (MetS)--both with individual MetS components and with MetS as a whole. Hypertension associates with OA through subchondral ischaemia, which can compromise nutrient exchange into articular cartilage and trigger bone remodelling. Ectopic lipid deposition in chondrocytes induced by dyslipidemia might initiate OA development, exacerbated by deregulated cellular lipid metabolism in joint tissues. Hyperglycaemia and OA interact at both local and systemic levels; local effects of oxidative stress and advanced glycation end-products are implicated in cartilage damage, whereas low-grade systemic inflammation results from glucose accumulation and contributes to a toxic internal environment that can exacerbate OA. Obesity-related metabolic factors, particularly altered levels of adipokines, contribute to OA development by inducing the expression of proinflammatory factors as well as degradative enzymes, leading to the inhibition of cartilage matrix synthesis and stimulation of subchondral bone remodelling. In this Review, we summarize the shared mechanisms of inflammation, oxidative stress, common metabolites and endothelial dysfunction that characterize the aetiologies of OA and MetS, and nominate metabolic OA as the fifth component of MetS. We also describe therapeutic opportunities that might arise from uniting these concepts.

Early cartilage degeneration in a rat experimental model of developmental dysplasia of the hip

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common long-term complication of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) that is associated with a higher incidence of OA. In addition, the age of onset of OA in DDH patients is significantly younger than in the general population. In order to investigate the early degeneration in DDH cartilage, we used a rat DDH model that was established by the straight-leg swaddling position. The hips were isolated from the DDH model rats and an untreated control group at postnatal weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8. Histology and proteoglycan levels were observed in articular cartilage using Safranin O staining. Biomarkers of cartilage degeneration, including type X collagen and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-13, were assessed using immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. In addition, expressions of ADAMTS-4 and ADAMTS-5 were studied using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction at different ages. DDH rats showed decreased proteoglycans and derangement of chondrocytes when compared with the control group. Collagen X and MMP-13 expressions were higher in the superficial zone of DDH rats than in that of controls (p < 0.05), and the increase was age-dependent. mRNA expression of Collagen X and MMP-13 showed similar results (p < 0.05). A significant increase in mRNA expression of ADAMTS-5 was found in the DDH model cartilage at 8 weeks (p < 0.05). However, no change was observed in ADAMTS-4 expression. This study shows that degenerative cartilage changes occur at an early stage in the rat DDH model and become aggravated with age.

SnoN suppresses maturation of chondrocytes by mediating signal cross-talk between transforming growth factor-β and bone morphogenetic protein pathways

Hypertrophic maturation of chondrocytes is a crucial step in endochondral ossification, whereas abnormally accelerated differentiation of hypertrophic chondrocytes in articular cartilage is linked to pathogenesis of osteoarthritis. This cellular process is promoted or inhibited by bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) or transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling, respectively, suggesting that these signaling pathways cross-talk during chondrocyte maturation. Here, we demonstrated that expression of Tgfb1 was increased, followed by phosphorylation of Smad2, during BMP-2-induced hypertrophic maturation of ATDC5 chondrocytes. Application of a TGF-β type I receptor inhibitor compound, SB431542, increased the expression of Id1, without affecting the phosphorylation status of Smad1/5/8, indicating that the activated endogenous TGF-β pathway inhibited BMP signaling downstream of the Smad activation step. We searched for TGF-β-inducible effectors that are able to inhibit BMP signaling in ATDC5 cells and identified SnoN. Overexpression of SnoN suppressed the activity of a BMP-responsive luciferase reporter in COS-7 cells as well as expression of Id1 in ATDC5 cells and, subsequently, the expression of Col10a1, a hallmark of hypertrophic chondrocyte maturation. siRNA-mediated loss of SnoN showed opposite effects in BMP-treated ATDC5 cells. In adult mice, we found the highest level of SnoN expression in articular cartilage. Importantly, SnoN was expressed, in combination with phosphorylated Smad2/3, in prehypertrophic chondrocytes in the growth plate of mouse embryo bones and in chondrocytes around the ectopically existing hypertrophic chondrocytes of human osteoarthritis cartilage. Our results indicate that SnoN mediates a negative feedback mechanism evoked by TGF-β to inhibit BMP signaling and, subsequently, hypertrophic maturation of chondrocytes.

Cartilage and bone changes during development of post-traumatic osteoarthritis in selected LGXSM recombinant inbred mice

INTRODUCTION

Little evidence is available on the natural course of osteoarthritis (OA) development and the genes that protect and predispose individuals to it. This study was designed to compare strain-dependent development of OA and its association with tissue regeneration in mice. Two recombinant inbred lines LGXSM-6 and LGXSM-33 generated from LG/J and SM/J intercross were used. Previous studies indicated that LGXSM-6 can regenerate both articular cartilage and ear hole punch while LGXSM-33 cannot.

METHODS

Transection of the medial meniscotibial ligament was performed on 10-week-old male mice to induce OA. Cartilage damage was analyzed by histology and bone morphology was evaluated using micro-computed tomography (CT). Ear punches were performed and evaluated by measurement of residual hole diameter.

RESULTS

Cartilage analysis showed that LGXSM-33 developed a significantly higher grade of OA than LGXSM-6. Bone analysis showed that LGXSM-33 had substantial subchondral bone and trabecular bone thickening 8 weeks post-surgery, while LGXSM-6 showed bone loss over time. We also confirmed that LGXSM-6 can heal ear tissues significantly better than LGXSM-33.

CONCLUSIONS

OA was found to be negatively correlated with the degree of tissue regeneration. LGXSM-33, a poor healer of ear tissues (and articular cartilage), developed more OA compared to LGXSM-6, which had better regenerative ability for ear tissues and articular cartilage. The phenotypic differences observed here are due to genetic differences further suggesting that similar sets of physiological processes and gene variants may mediate variation in OA development and tissue regeneration.

A variant of Smurf2 protects mice against colitis-associated colon cancer by inducing transforming growth factor β signaling

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling, which is down-regulated by the E3 ubiquitin ligase Smad ubiquitin regulating factor 2 (Smurf2), promotes development of cancer. We identified a splice variant of Smurf2 (ΔE2Smurf2) and investigated its role in colon carcinogenesis in mice.

METHODS

Colitis-associated colon cancer was induced in mice by administration of azoxymethane, followed by 3 cycles of oral administration of dextran sodium sulfate. Messenger RNA levels of Smurf2 in colon tumors and control tissue were measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction; lymphocyte and cytokine levels were measured in tumor and tissue samples.

RESULTS

Tumor-infiltrating CD4(+) cells expressed higher levels of ΔE2Smurf2 than CD4(+) cells from nontumor tissues of wild-type mice. T cell-specific overexpression of ΔE2Smurf2 increased TGF-β signaling by suppressing protein levels of Smurf2, accompanied by an increase in levels of TGF-β receptor type II. Transgenic mice that overexpress ΔE2Smurf2 were protected against development of colitis-associated tumors and down-regulated proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6. Patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease had a significantly lower ratio of Smurf2/ΔE2Smurf2 than control individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

T cell-specific ΔE2Smurf2 degrades wild-type Smurf2 and controls intestinal tumor growth in mice by up-regulating TGF-β receptor type II, reducing proliferation and production of proinflammatory cytokines.

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor-mediated impairment of chondrogenesis and fracture healing by cigarette smoke and benzo(a)pyrene

The clinical literature strongly suggests that bone healing in cigarette smokers is impaired. Since cigarette smoke (CS) contains numerous polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and since dioxins impair bone formation in vivo via the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR), we investigated the impact of PAH/AHR signaling on chondrogenesis and on healing in a mouse tibial fracture model. We established that CS activates AHR signaling in fractures by up-regulating the AHR target gene cytochrome p4501A1 (Cyp1A1). For in vitro studies, we employed the mouse limb bud micromass chondrogenesis model. After confirming that chondrocytes express AHR during differentiation, we treated cells with a prototypical PAH found in CS, benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), or cigarette smoke extract (CSE). Both BaP and CSE strongly inhibited chondrogenesis in mesenchymal cells generated from E11 limb buds, with BaP also accelerating chondrocyte hypertrophy in cultures generated from E12 limb buds. Detection of DNA adducts in the BaP-treated cultures suggests that the distinct phenotypic effects of BaP may be due to the formation of reactive metabolites. Blockade of AHR signaling with the AHR antagonist MNF reverses the effects of BaP, but not CSE, suggesting that CSE inhibition of chondrogenesis is AHR-independent. Correlating with these results, tibial fracture calluses from BaP-treated mice were smaller and contained less mineralized tissue than vehicle controls. Overall, BaP is identified as a potent inhibitor of chondrogenesis in vitro with correlated effects on fracture healing similar to those of CS itself, suggesting a basis for PAHs as key compounds in the influence of CS on fracture repair.

Regulatory mechanism of transforming growth factor beta receptor type II degradation by interleukin-1 in primary chondrocytes

Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), a key-cytokine in osteoarthritis, impairs TGFβ signaling through TβRII down-regulation by increasing its degradation. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanism that controls TßRII fate in IL-1ß treated cells. Chondrocytes were treated with IL-1ß in the presence of different inhibitors. TßRII and Cav-1 expression were assayed by Western blot and RT-PCR. We showed that IL-1ß-induced degradation of TßRII is dependent on proteasome and on its internalization in caveolae. In addition, IL-1ß enhances Cav-1 expression, a major constituent of lipid raft. In conclusion, we enlighten a new mechanism by which IL-1ß antagonizes TGFß pathway and propose a model of TßRII turnover regulation upon IL-1ß treatment.

Altered responsiveness to TGF-β results in reduced Papss2 expression and alterations in the biomechanical properties of mouse articular cartilage

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies have indicated that transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling has a critical role in cartilage homeostasis and repair, yet the mechanisms of TGF-β's chondroprotective effects are not known. Our objective in this study was to identify downstream targets of TGF-β that could act to maintain biochemical and biomechanical properties of cartilage.

METHODS

Tibial joints from 20-week-old mice that express a dominant-negative mutation of the TGF-β type II receptor (DNIIR) were graded histologically for osteoarthritic changes and tested by indentation to evaluate their mechanical properties. To identify gene targets of TGF-β, microarray analysis was performed using bovine articular chondrocytes grown in micromass culture that were either treated with TGF-β or left untreated. Phosphoadenosine phosphosynthetase 2 (PAPSS2) was identified as a TGF-β-responsive gene. Papss2 expression is crucial for proper sulfation of cartilage matrix, and its deficiency causes skeletal defects in mice and humans that overlap with those seen in mice with mutations in TGF-β-signaling genes. Regulation of Papss2 was verified by real time RT-PCR and Western blot analyses. Alterations in sulfation of glycosaminoglycans were analyzed by critical electrolyte concentration and Alcian blue staining and immunofluorescence for chondroitin-4-sulfate, unsulfated chondroitin and the aggrecan core protein.

RESULTS

DNIIR mutants showed reduced mechanical properties and osteoarthritis-like changes when compared to wild-type control mice. Microarray analysis identified a group of genes encoding matrix-modifying enzymes that were regulated by TGF-β. Papss2 was upregulated in bovine articular chondrocytes after treatment with TGF-β and downregulated in cartilage from DNIIR mice. Articular cartilage in DNIIR mice demonstrated reduced Alcian blue staining at critical electrolyte concentrations and reduced chondroitin-4-sulfate staining. Staining for unsulfated chondroitin sulfate was increased, whereas staining for the aggrecan core protein was comparable in DNIIR and wild-type mice.

CONCLUSION

TGF-β maintains biomechanical properties and regulates expression of Papss2 and sulfation of glycosaminoglycans in mouse articular cartilage.

Teriparatide as a chondroregenerative therapy for injury-induced osteoarthritis

There is no disease-modifying therapy for osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that is projected to afflict more than 67 million individuals in the United States alone by 2030. Because disease pathogenesis is associated with inappropriate articular chondrocyte maturation resembling that seen during normal endochondral ossification, pathways that govern the maturation of articular chondrocytes are candidate therapeutic targets. It is well established that parathyroid hormone (PTH) acting via the type 1 PTH receptor induces matrix synthesis and suppresses maturation of chondrocytes. We report that the PTH receptor is up-regulated in articular chondrocytes after meniscal injury and in osteoarthritis in humans and in a mouse model of injury-induced knee osteoarthritis. To test whether recombinant human PTH(1-34) (teriparatide) would inhibit aberrant chondrocyte maturation and associated articular cartilage degeneration, we administered systemic teriparatide (Forteo), a Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment for osteoporosis, either immediately after or 8 weeks after meniscal/ligamentous injury in mice. Knee joints were harvested at 4, 8, or 12 weeks after injury to examine the effects of teriparatide on cartilage degeneration and articular chondrocyte maturation. Microcomputed tomography revealed increased bone volume within joints from teriparatide-treated mice compared to saline-treated control animals. Immediate systemic administration of teriparatide increased proteoglycan content and inhibited articular cartilage degeneration, whereas delayed treatment beginning 8 weeks after injury induced a regenerative effect. The chondroprotective and chondroregenerative effects of teriparatide correlated with decreased expression of type X collagen, RUNX2 (runt-related transcription factor 2), matrix metalloproteinase 13, and the carboxyl-terminal aggrecan cleavage product NITEGE. These preclinical findings provide proof of concept that Forteo may be useful for decelerating cartilage degeneration and inducing matrix regeneration in patients with osteoarthritis.

Recent progress in understanding molecular mechanisms of cartilage degeneration during osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly prevalent disease affecting more than 20% of American adults. Predispositions include joint injury, heredity, obesity, and aging. Biomechanical alterations are commonly involved. However, the molecular mechanisms of this disease are complex, and there is currently no effective disease-modifying treatment. The initiation and progression of OA subtypes is a complex process that at the molecular level probably involves many cell types, signaling pathways, and changes in extracellular matrix. Ex vivo studies with tissue derived from OA patients and in vivo studies with mutant mice have suggested that pathways involving receptor ligands such as TGF-β1, WNT3a, and Indian hedgehog; signaling molecules such as Smads, β-catenin, and HIF-2a; and peptidases such as MMP13 and ADAMTS4/5 are probably involved to some degree. This review focuses on molecular mechanisms of OA development related to recent findings.

TGF-β and BMP signaling in osteoblast differentiation and bone formation

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/bone morphogenic protein (BMP) signaling is involved in a vast majority of cellular processes and is fundamentally important throughout life. TGF-β/BMPs have widely recognized roles in bone formation during mammalian development and exhibit versatile regulatory functions in the body. Signaling transduction by TGF-β/BMPs is specifically through both canonical Smad-dependent pathways (TGF-β/BMP ligands, receptors and Smads) and non-canonical Smad-independent signaling pathway (e.g. p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, MAPK). Following TGF-β/BMP induction, both the Smad and p38 MAPK pathways converge at the Runx2 gene to control mesenchymal precursor cell differentiation. The coordinated activity of Runx2 and TGF-β/BMP-activated Smads is critical for formation of the skeleton. Recent advances in molecular and genetic studies using gene targeting in mice enable a better understanding of TGF-β/BMP signaling in bone and in the signaling networks underlying osteoblast differentiation and bone formation. This review summarizes the recent advances in our understanding of TGF-β/BMP signaling in bone from studies of genetic mouse models and human diseases caused by the disruption of TGF-β/BMP signaling. This review also highlights the different modes of cross-talk between TGF-β/BMP signaling and the signaling pathways of MAPK, Wnt, Hedgehog, Notch, and FGF in osteoblast differentiation and bone formation.

High-fat diet accelerates progression of osteoarthritis after meniscal/ligamentous injury

Introduction

Increasing obesity and type 2 diabetes, in part due to the high-fat (HF) Western diet, parallels an increased incidence of osteoarthritis (OA). This study was undertaken to establish a causal relation between the HF diet and accelerated OA progression in a mouse model and to determine the relative roles of weight gain and metabolic dysregulation in this progression.

Methods

Five-week-old C57BL/6 mice were placed on HF (60% kcal) or low-fat (lean, 10% kcal) diets for 8 or 12 weeks before transecting the medial collateral ligament and excising a segment of the medial meniscus of the knee to initiate OA. One group was switched from lean to HF diet at the time of surgery.

Results

Body weight of mice on the HF diet peaked at 45.9 ± 2.1 g compared with 29.9 ± 1.8 g for lean diets, with only those on the HF becoming diabetic. Severity of OA was greater in HF mice, evidenced by the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) histopathology initiative scoring method for mice and articular cartilage thickness and area. To assess the importance of weight gain, short- and long-term HF diets were compared with the lean diet. Short- and long-term HF groups outweighed lean controls by 6.2 g and 20.5 g, respectively. Both HF groups became diabetic, and OA progression, evidenced by increased OARSI score, decreased cartilage thickness, and increased osteophyte diameter, was comparably accelerated relative to those of lean controls.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that the HF diet accelerates progression of OA in a type 2 diabetic mouse model without correlation to weight gain, suggesting that metabolic dysregulation is a comorbid factor in OA-related cartilage degeneration.

TRB3 interacts with SMAD3 promoting tumor cell migration and invasion

Tribbles homolog 3 (TRB3, also known as TRIB3, NIPK and SKIP3), a human homolog of Drosophila Tribbles, has been found to interact with a variety of signaling molecules to regulate diverse cellular functions. Here, we report that TRB3 is a novel SMAD3-interacting protein. Expression of exogenous TRB3 enhanced the transcriptional activity of SMAD3, whereas knocking down endogenous TRB3 reduced the transcriptional activity of SMAD3. The kinase-like domain (KD) of TRB3 was responsible for the interaction with SMAD3 and the regulation of SMAD3-mediated transcriptional activity. In addition, TGF-β1 stimulation or overexpression of SMAD3 enhanced the TRB3 promoter activity and expression, suggesting that there is a positive feedback loop between TRB3 and TGF-β–SMAD3 signaling. Mechanistically, TRB3 was found to trigger the degradation of SMAD ubiquitin regulatory factor 2 (Smurf2), which resulted in a decrease in the degradation of SMAD2 and phosphorylated SMAD3. Moreover, TRB3–SMAD3 interaction promoted the nuclear localization of SMAD3 because of the interaction of TRB3 with the MH2 domain of SMAD3. These effects of TRB3 were responsible for potentiating the SMAD3-mediated activity. Furthermore, knockdown of endogenous TRB3 expression inhibited the migration and invasion of tumor cells in vitro, which were associated with an increase in the expression of E-cadherin and a decrease in the expression of Twist-1 and Snail, two master regulators of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, suggesting a crucial role for TRB3 in maintaining the mesenchymal status of tumor cells. These results demonstrate that TRB3 acts as a novel SMAD3-interacting protein to participate in the positive regulation of TGF-β–SMAD-mediated cellular biological functions.

The relationship between fibrogenic TGFβ1 signaling in the joint and cartilage degradation in post-injury osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

To review the literature on modulation of chondrocyte activities in the osteoarthritic joint, and to discuss these changes in relation to established hard and soft tissue repair paradigms, with an emphasis on transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ1)-mediated signaling which can promote either a chondrogenic or fibrogenic phenotype.

METHODS

Papers addressing the close relationship between repair in general, and the specific post-injury response of joint tissues are summarized. Different interpretations of the role of TGFβ1 in the emergence of an "osteoarthritic" chondrocyte are compared and the phenotypic plasticity of "reparative" progenitor cells is examined. Lastly, emerging data on a central role for A-Disintegrin-And-Metalloproteinase-with-Thrombospondin-like-Sequences-5 (ADAMTS5) activity in modulating TGFβ1 signaling through activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1) and activin receptor-like kinase 5 (ALK5) pathways is discussed.

RESULTS

The review illustrates how a transition from ALK5-mediated fibrogenic signaling to ALK1-mediated chondrogenic signaling in joint cells represents the critical transition from a non-reparative to a reparative cell phenotype. Data from cell and in vivo studies illustrates the mechanism by which ablation of ADAMTS5 activity allows the transition to reparative chondrogenesis. Multiple large gene expression studies of normal and osteoarthritis (OA) human cartilages (CAs) also support an important role for TGFβ1-mediated pro-fibrogenic activities during disease progression.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that progressive articular CA damage in post-injury OA results primarily from biomechanical, cell biologic and mediator changes that promote a fibroblastic phenotype in joint cells. Since ADAMTS5 and TGFβ1 appear to control this process, agents which interfere with their activities may not only enhance endogenous CA repair in vivo, but also improve the properties of tissue-engineered CA for implantation.

Establishment of an index with increased sensitivity for assessing murine arthritis

The goals of our study were to establish quantitative outcomes for assessing murine knee arthritis and develop an Arthritis Index that incorporates multiple outcomes into a single calculation that provides enhanced sensitivity. Using an accepted model of meniscal/ligamentous injury (MLI)-induced osteoarthritis (OA), we assessed mouse knee arthritis using several approaches. Histology-based methods were performed to visualize joint tissues including articular cartilage and subchondral bone. Accepted histologic scoring methods and histomorphometry were performed to grade cartilage degeneration and determine articular cartilage area, respectively. MicroCT was used to visualize and quantify the bony structures of the joint including osteophytes and joint bone volume. A statistical algorithm was then developed that combined histologic scores and cartilage areas into a single Arthritis Index. MLI induced progressive, OA-like articular cartilage degeneration characterized by increasing (worsening) histologic score and decreasing cartilage area. MicroCT revealed osteophytes and increased joint bone volume between the femoral and tibial physes following MLI. Lastly, an Arthritis Index calculation was established, which incorporated histologic scoring and cartilage area. The Arthritis Index provided enhanced quantitative sensitivity in assessing the level of joint degeneration compared to either histologic scoring or cartilage area determination alone; when using the Index, between 29% and 43% fewer samples are needed to establish statistical significance in studies of murine arthritis. Arthritis in the mouse knee can be quantitatively assessed by histologic scoring, measuring cartilage area, and determining joint bone volume. Enhanced sensitivity can be achieved by performing the Arthritis Index calculation, a novel method for quantitatively assessing mouse knee arthritis.

Age-dependent alteration of TGF-β signalling in osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disease of articular cartilage, with aging as the main risk factor. In OA, changes in chondrocytes lead to the autolytic destruction of cartilage. Transforming growth factor-β has recently been demonstrated to signal not only via activin receptor-like kinase 5 (ALK5)-induced Smad2/3 phosphorylation, but also via ALK1-induced Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation in articular cartilage. In aging cartilage and experimental OA, the ratio ALK1/ALK5 has been found to be increased, and the expression of ALK1 is correlated with matrix metalloproteinase-13 expression. The age-dependent shift towards Smad1/5/8 signalling might trigger the differentiation of articular chondrocytes with an autolytic phenotype.

Genetic variation in the SMAD3 gene is associated with hip and knee osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

Smad3 (or, MADH3) is a key intracellular messenger in the transforming growth factor beta signaling pathway. In mice, Smad3 deficiency accelerates growth plate chondrocyte maturation and leads to an osteoarthritis (OA)-like disease. We undertook this study to investigate the role of genetic variation in SMAD3 in the risk of large-joint OA in humans.

METHODS

Ten tag single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the SMAD3 gene region were tested in a discovery set: 313 patients who had undergone total knee replacement, 214 patients who had undergone total hip replacement, and 520 controls from the UK. The SNP associated with both hip and knee OA was subsequently genotyped in 1,221 controls and 1,074 cases from 2 cohorts of patients with hip OA and 2,537 controls and 1,575 cases from 4 cohorts of patients with knee OA.

RESULTS

A SNP (rs12901499) mapping to intron 1 of SMAD3 was associated with both knee and hip OA (P < 0.0022 and P < 0.021, respectively) in the discovery set. In all study cohorts, the major allele (G) was increased among OA patients relative to controls. A meta-analysis for knee OA yielded an odds ratio (OR) of 1.22 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.12-1.34), P < 7.5 x 10(-6). For hip OA, the OR was 1.22 (95% CI 1.09-1.36), P < 4.0 x 10(-4). No evidence for heterogeneity was found (I(2) = 0%).

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that genetic variation in the SMAD3 gene is involved in the risk of both hip OA and knee OA in European populations, confirming the results from animal models on the potential importance of this molecule in the pathogenesis of OA.

Smurf control in bone cells

The homologous to the E6-associated protein carboxyl terminus (HECT) domain E3 ubiquitin ligase Smurf1 is the first E3 ligase to be implicated in regulating bone cell function. The involvement of Smurf1 in multiple signaling pathways and pathological conditions is presently an area of extensive scientific interest. This review highlights recent works exploring Smurf-regulated biological processes in bone cells and highlights recent discoveries surrounding the regulatory mechanisms modulating its catalytic activity and substrate recognition capability. Moreover, we discuss the relevance of targeting the HECT E3s through the development of small-molecule inhibitors as an anticancer therapeutic strategy.

Beta-catenin, cartilage, and osteoarthritis

The early cellular events during the development of osteoarthritis (OA) are accelerated articular chondrocyte maturation and extracellular matrix degradation, which are usually seen in the weight-bearing region of articular cartilage. The results of our recent studies from transgenic OA mouse models indicate that upregulation of beta-catenin signaling in articular chondrocytes is most likely responsible for the conversion of normal articular chondrocytes into maturing (arthritic) chondrocytes, which is associated with activation of chondrocyte maturational genes and matrix degradation. Conditional activation of the beta-catenin gene in articular chondrocytes leads to an OA-like phenotype. Overexpression of Smurf2, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, also induces an OA-like phenotype through upregulation of beta-catenin signaling. In addition, beta-catenin upregulation was also found in articular cartilage tissues in patients with OA. These findings indicate that beta-catenin plays a central role in articular cartilage function and that activation of beta-catenin signaling may represent a pathologic mechanism for OA development.

Animal models for cartilage regeneration and repair

Articular cartilage injury and degeneration are leading causes of disability. Animal studies are critically important to developing effective treatments for cartilage injuries. This review focuses on the use of animal models for the study of the repair and regeneration of focal cartilage defects. Animals commonly used in cartilage repair studies include murine, lapine, canine, caprine, porcine, and equine models. There are advantages and disadvantages to each model. Small animal rodent and lapine models are cost effective, easy to house, and useful for pilot and proof-of-concept studies. The availability of transgenic and knockout mice provide opportunities for mechanistic in vivo study. Athymic mice and rats are additionally useful for evaluating the cartilage repair potential of human cells and tissues. Their small joint size, thin cartilage, and greater potential for intrinsic healing than humans, however, limit the translational value of small animal models. Large animal models with thicker articular cartilage permit study of both partial thickness and full thickness chondral repair, as well as osteochondral repair. Joint size and cartilage thickness for canine, caprine, and mini-pig models remain significantly smaller than that of humans. The repair and regeneration of chondral and osteochondral defects of size and volume comparable to that of clinically significant human lesions can be reliably studied primarily in equine models. While larger animals may more closely approximate the human clinical situation, they carry greater logistical, financial, and ethical considerations. A multifactorial analysis of each animal model should be carried out when planning in vivo studies. Ultimately, the scientific goals of the study will be critical in determining the appropriate animal model.

Biglycan and fibromodulin have essential roles in regulating chondrogenesis and extracellular matrix turnover in temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis

The temporomandibular joint is critical for jaw movements and allows for mastication, digestion of food, and speech. Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that is marked by permanent cartilage destruction and loss of extracellular matrix (ECM). To understand how the ECM regulates mandibular condylar chondrocyte (MCC) differentiation and function, we used a genetic mouse model of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis that is deficient in two ECM proteins, biglycan and fibromodulin (Bgn(-/0)Fmod(-/-)). Given the unavailability of cell lines, we first isolated primary MCCs and found that they were phenotypically unique from hyaline articular chondrocytes isolated from the knee joint. Using Bgn(-/0) Fmod(-/-) MCCs, we discovered the early basis for temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis arises from abnormal and accelerated chondrogenesis. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1 is a growth factor that is critical for chondrogenesis and binds to both biglycan and fibromodulin. Our studies revealed the sequestration of TGF-beta1 was decreased within the ECM of Bgn(-/0) Fmod(-/-) MCCs, leading to overactive TGF-beta1 signal transduction. Using an explant culture system, we found that overactive TGF-beta1 signals induced chondrogenesis and ECM turnover in this model. We demonstrated for the first time a comprehensive study revealing the importance of the ECM in maintaining the mandibular condylar cartilage integrity and identified biglycan and fibromodulin as novel key players in regulating chondrogenesis and ECM turnover during temoporomandibular joint osteoarthritis pathology.

TGF-beta signaling in chondrocyte terminal differentiation and osteoarthritis: modulation and integration of signaling pathways through receptor-Smads

OBJECTIVE

Chondrocytes and alteration in chondrocyte differentiation play a central role in osteoarthritis. Chondrocyte differentiation is amongst others regulated by members of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) superfamily. The major intracellular signaling routes of this family are via the receptor-Smads. This review is focused on the modulation of receptor-Smad signaling and how this modulation can affect chondrocyte differentiation and potentially osteoarthritis development.

METHODS

Peer reviewed publications published prior to April 2009 were searched in the Pubmed database. Articles that were relevant for the role of TGF-beta superfamily/Smad signaling in chondrocyte differentiation and for differential modulation of receptor-Smads were selected.

RESULTS

Chondrocyte terminal differentiation is stimulated by Smad1/5/8 activation and inhibited the by Smad2/3 pathway, most likely by modulation of Runx2 function. Several proteins and signaling pathways differentially affect Smad1/5/8 and Smad2/3 signaling. This will result in an altered Smad1/5/8 and Smad2/3 balance and subsequently have an effect on chondrocyte differentiation and osteoarthritis development.

CONCLUSION

Modulation of receptor-Smads signaling can be expect to play an essential role in both the regulation of chondrocyte differentiation and osteoarthritis development and progression.

Degradome expression profiling in human articular cartilage

Introduction

The molecular mechanisms underlying cartilage destruction in osteoarthritis are poorly understood. Proteolysis is a key feature in the turnover and degradation of cartilage extracellular matrix where the focus of research has been on the metzincin family of metalloproteinases. However, there is strong evidence to indicate important roles for other catalytic classes of proteases, with both extracellular and intracellular activities. The aim of this study was to profile the expression of the majority of protease genes in all catalytic classes in normal human cartilage and that from patients with osteoarthritis (OA) using a quantitative method.

Methods

Human cartilage was obtained from femoral heads at joint replacement for either osteoarthritis or following fracture to the neck of femur (NOF). Total RNA was purified, and expression of genes assayed using Taqman^® low-density array quantitative RT-PCR.

Results

A total of 538 protease genes were profiled, of which 431 were expressed in cartilage. A total of 179 genes were differentially expressed in OA versus NOF cartilage: eight aspartic proteases, 44 cysteine proteases, 76 metalloproteases, 46 serine proteases and five threonine proteases. Wilcoxon ranking as well as the LogitBoost-NR machine learning approach were used to assign significance to each gene, with the most highly ranked genes broadly similar using each method.

Conclusions

This study is the most complete quantitative analysis of protease gene expression in cartilage to date. The data help give direction to future research on the specific function(s) of individual proteases or protease families in cartilage and may help to refine anti-proteolytic strategies in OA.

Smurf2 induces degradation of GSK-3beta and upregulates beta-catenin in chondrocytes: a potential mechanism for Smurf2-induced degeneration of articular cartilage

We have previously demonstrated that Smurf2 is highly expressed in human osteoarthritis (OA) tissue, and overexpression of Smurf2 under the control of the type II collagen promoter (Col2a1) induces an OA-like phenotype in aged Col2a1-Smurf2 transgenic mice, suggesting that Smurf2 is located upstream of a signal cascade which initiates OA development. However, the factors downstream of Smurf2 in this signal cascade and how Smurf2-induced OA is initiated are largely unknown. In this study, we further characterized the phenotypic changes in Col2a1-Smurf2 transgenic and WT articular cartilage from the postnatal stage to adulthood. We found that the articular cartilage degeneration occurring at the cartilage surface in 6 month-old Col2a1-Smurf2 transgenic mice progressed from an expanded hypertrophic domain in the basal layer of the deep articular cartilage at 2.5 weeks of age, which may lead to an accelerated calcification and ectopic ossification of this region at 1 month of age, and aggregation and maturation of articular chondrocytes in the middle and deep zones at 2 months and 4.5 months of age, respectively. Furthermore, we discovered that ectopically expressed Smurf2 interacted with GSK-3beta and induced its ubiquitination and subsequent proteasomal degradation, and hence upregulated beta-catenin in Col2a1-Smurf2 transgenic chondrocytes ex vivo. It is therefore likely that Smurf2-mediated upregulation of beta-catenin through induction of proteasomal degradation of GSK-beta in chondrocytes may activate articular chondrocyte maturation and associated alteration of gene expression, the early events of OA.