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Kurz B, Lange T, Voelker M, Hart ML, Rolauffs B. Articular Cartilage-From Basic Science Structural Imaging to Non-Invasive Clinical Quantitative Molecular Functional Information for AI Classification and Prediction. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14974. [PMID: 37834422 PMCID: PMC10573252 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This review presents the changes that the imaging of articular cartilage has undergone throughout the last decades. It highlights that the expectation is no longer to image the structure and associated functions of articular cartilage but, instead, to devise methods for generating non-invasive, function-depicting images with quantitative information that is useful for detecting the early, pre-clinical stage of diseases such as primary or post-traumatic osteoarthritis (OA/PTOA). In this context, this review summarizes (a) the structure and function of articular cartilage as a molecular imaging target, (b) quantitative MRI for non-invasive assessment of articular cartilage composition, microstructure, and function with the current state of medical diagnostic imaging, (c), non-destructive imaging methods, (c) non-destructive quantitative articular cartilage live-imaging methods, (d) artificial intelligence (AI) classification of degeneration and prediction of OA progression, and (e) our contribution to this field, which is an AI-supported, non-destructive quantitative optical biopsy for early disease detection that operates on a digital tissue architectural fingerprint. Collectively, this review shows that articular cartilage imaging has undergone profound changes in the purpose and expectations for which cartilage imaging is used; the image is becoming an AI-usable biomarker with non-invasive quantitative functional information. This may aid in the development of translational diagnostic applications and preventive or early therapeutic interventions that are yet beyond our reach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bodo Kurz
- Department of Anatomy, Christian-Albrechts-University, Otto-Hahn-Platz 8, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Thomas Lange
- Medical Physics Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany;
| | - Marita Voelker
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (M.V.); (M.L.H.)
| | - Melanie L. Hart
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (M.V.); (M.L.H.)
| | - Bernd Rolauffs
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (M.V.); (M.L.H.)
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2
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Kurz B, Lange T, Voelker M, Rolauffs B. Articular Cartilage Imaging in the Context of the Superficial Chondrocyte Spatial Organization (SCSO) as a Surrogate Marker for Functional Pathology. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2598:265-270. [PMID: 36355297 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2839-3_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Articular cartilage imaging has undergone tremendous changes and nowadays enables functionally relevant quantitative information useful for detecting the early, preclinical state of articular cartilage degeneration as seen in primary or post-traumatic osteoarthritis (OA/PTOA) to be obtained. In this context, we describe the necessary steps for articular cartilage imaging with the goal to utilize the superficial chondrocyte spatial organization (SCSO) as a score that is responsive to its environment and dynamically changes during the lifetime of an individual and that can be used as a surrogate marker for loss of articular cartilage surface stiffness on the nanoscale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bodo Kurz
- Department of Anatomy, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Thomas Lange
- Medical Physics Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center-Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Marita Voelker
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center-Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Bernd Rolauffs
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center-Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.
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3
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Wei Y, Luo L, Gui T, Yu F, Yan L, Yao L, Zhong L, Yu W, Han B, Patel JM, Liu JF, Beier F, Levin LS, Nelson C, Shao Z, Han L, Mauck RL, Tsourkas A, Ahn J, Cheng Z, Qin L. Targeting cartilage EGFR pathway for osteoarthritis treatment. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:13/576/eabb3946. [PMID: 33441426 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abb3946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a widespread joint disease for which there are no disease-modifying treatments. Previously, we found that mice with cartilage-specific epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) deficiency developed accelerated knee OA. To test whether the EGFR pathway can be targeted as a potential OA therapy, we constructed two cartilage-specific EGFR overactivation models in mice by overexpressing heparin binding EGF-like growth factor (HBEGF), an EGFR ligand. Compared to wild type, Col2-Cre HBEGF-overexpressing mice had persistently enlarged articular cartilage from adolescence, due to an expanded pool of chondroprogenitors with elevated proliferation ability, survival rate, and lubricant production. Adult Col2-Cre HBEGF-overexpressing mice and Aggrecan-CreER HBEGF-overexpressing mice were resistant to cartilage degeneration and other signs of OA after surgical destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM). Treating mice with gefitinib, an EGFR inhibitor, abolished the protective action against OA in HBEGF-overexpressing mice. Polymeric micellar nanoparticles (NPs) conjugated with transforming growth factor-α (TGFα), a potent EGFR ligand, were stable and nontoxic and had long joint retention, high cartilage uptake, and penetration capabilities. Intra-articular delivery of TGFα-NPs effectively attenuated surgery-induced OA cartilage degeneration, subchondral bone plate sclerosis, and joint pain. Genetic or pharmacologic activation of EGFR revealed no obvious side effects in knee joints and major vital organs in mice. Together, our studies demonstrate the feasibility of using nanotechnology to target EGFR signaling for OA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulong Wei
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Lijun Luo
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Tao Gui
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Feifan Yu
- Alphathera LLC, Philadelphia, PA 19146, USA
| | - Lesan Yan
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Lutian Yao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Leilei Zhong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Wei Yu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Biao Han
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jay M Patel
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jessica F Liu
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Frank Beier
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Lawrence Scott Levin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Charles Nelson
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Zengwu Shao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Lin Han
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Robert L Mauck
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Andrew Tsourkas
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jaimo Ahn
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
| | - Zhiliang Cheng
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Ling Qin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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4
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Danalache M, Beutler KR, Rolauffs B, Wolfgart JM, Bonnaire FC, Fischer S, Greving I, Hofmann UK. Exploration of changes in spatial chondrocyte organisation in human osteoarthritic cartilage by means of 3D imaging. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9783. [PMID: 33963289 PMCID: PMC8105369 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-89582-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Using two-dimensional top-down view microscopy, researchers have recently described chondrocytes as being spatially arranged in distinct patterns such as strings, double strings, and small and large clusters. Because of the seeming association of these changes with tissue degeneration, they have been proposed as an image-based biomarker for early osteoarthritis (OA) staging. The aim of our study was to investigate the spatial arrangement of chondrocytes in human articular cartilage in a 3D fashion and to evaluate the 3D changes of these patterns in the context of local tissue destruction. Decalcified femoral condyle resections from the load-bearing area were analysed in 3D for their spatial chondrocyte organisation by means of fluorescence microscopy and synchrotron-radiation micro-computed tomography (SR-µCT). In intact cartilage chondrocyte strings can be found in the superficial, transitional and deep zones. The proposed pattern changes accompanying tissue destruction could be located not just along the surface but also through all layers of cartilage. Each spatial pattern was characterised by a different cellular density (the only exception being between single and double strings with p = 0.062), with cellular density significantly increasing alongside the increase in local tissue degeneration as defined by the chondrocyte patterns. We can thus corroborate that the proposed cellular spatial changes are a three-dimensional function of local tissue degeneration, underlining their relevance as an image-based biomarker for the early diagnosis and description of OA. Clinical trial registration number: Project number of the ethics committee of the University of Tübingen:171/2014BO2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Danalache
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Strasse 3, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Kevin Ralf Beutler
- Medical Faculty of the University of Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany. .,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Spital Thurgau AG, Spitalcampus 1, 8596, Münsterlingen, Switzerland.
| | - Bernd Rolauffs
- G.E.R.N. Tissue Replacement, Regeneration and Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center - Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79108, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Florian Christof Bonnaire
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Strasse 3, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stefan Fischer
- Department of Evolutionary Biology of Invertebrates, University of Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.,Tübingen Structural Microscopy (TSM), Center for Applied Geoscience (ZAG), University of Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Imke Greving
- Institute of Materials Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht, Geesthacht, Germany
| | - Ulf Krister Hofmann
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Strasse 3, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
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5
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Hybrid fluorescence-AFM explores articular surface degeneration in early osteoarthritis across length scales. Acta Biomater 2021; 126:315-325. [PMID: 33753314 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has become a powerful tool for the characterization of materials at the nanoscale. Nevertheless, its application to hierarchical biological tissue like cartilage is still limited. One reason is that such samples are usually millimeters in size, while the AFM delivers much more localized information. Here a combination of AFM and fluorescence microscopy is presented where features on a millimeter sized tissue sample are selected by fluorescence microscopy on the micrometer scale and then mapped down to nanometer precision by AFM under native conditions. This served us to show that local changes in the organization of fluorescent stained cells, a marker for early osteoarthritis, correlate with a significant local reduction of the elastic modulus, local thinning of the collagen fibers, and a roughening of the articular surface. This approach is not only relevant for cartilage, but in general for the characterization of native biological tissue from the macro- to the nanoscale. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Different length scales have to be studied to understand the function and dysfunction of hierarchically organized biomaterials or tissues. Here we combine a highly stable AFM with fluorescence microscopy and precisely motorized movement to correlate micro- and nanoscopic properties of articular cartilage on a millimeter sized sample under native conditions. This is necessary for unraveling the relationship between microscale organization of chondrocytes, micrometer scale changes in articular cartilage properties and nanoscale organization of collagen (including D-banding). We anticipate that such studies pave the way for a guided design of hierarchical biomaterials.
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6
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Articular Chondrocyte Phenotype Regulation through the Cytoskeleton and the Signaling Processes That Originate from or Converge on the Cytoskeleton: Towards a Novel Understanding of the Intersection between Actin Dynamics and Chondrogenic Function. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063279. [PMID: 33807043 PMCID: PMC8004672 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have assembled a complex picture, in which extracellular stimuli and intracellular signaling pathways modulate the chondrocyte phenotype. Because many diseases are mechanobiology-related, this review asked to what extent phenotype regulators control chondrocyte function through the cytoskeleton and cytoskeleton-regulating signaling processes. Such information would generate leverage for advanced articular cartilage repair. Serial passaging, pro-inflammatory cytokine signaling (TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8), growth factors (TGF-α), and osteoarthritis not only induce dedifferentiation but also converge on RhoA/ROCK/Rac1/mDia1/mDia2/Cdc42 to promote actin polymerization/crosslinking for stress fiber (SF) formation. SF formation takes center stage in phenotype control, as both SF formation and SOX9 phosphorylation for COL2 expression are ROCK activity-dependent. Explaining how it is molecularly possible that dedifferentiation induces low COL2 expression but high SF formation, this review theorized that, in chondrocyte SOX9, phosphorylation by ROCK might effectively be sidelined in favor of other SF-promoting ROCK substrates, based on a differential ROCK affinity. In turn, actin depolymerization for redifferentiation would “free-up” ROCK to increase COL2 expression. Moreover, the actin cytoskeleton regulates COL1 expression, modulates COL2/aggrecan fragment generation, and mediates a fibrogenic/catabolic expression profile, highlighting that actin dynamics-regulating processes decisively control the chondrocyte phenotype. This suggests modulating the balance between actin polymerization/depolymerization for therapeutically controlling the chondrocyte phenotype.
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Khella CM, Asgarian R, Horvath JM, Rolauffs B, Hart ML. An Evidence-Based Systematic Review of Human Knee Post-Traumatic Osteoarthritis (PTOA): Timeline of Clinical Presentation and Disease Markers, Comparison of Knee Joint PTOA Models and Early Disease Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1996. [PMID: 33671471 PMCID: PMC7922905 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the causality of the post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) disease process of the knee joint is important for diagnosing early disease and developing new and effective preventions or treatments. The aim of this review was to provide detailed clinical data on inflammatory and other biomarkers obtained from patients after acute knee trauma in order to (i) present a timeline of events that occur in the acute, subacute, and chronic post-traumatic phases and in PTOA, and (ii) to identify key factors present in the synovial fluid, serum/plasma and urine, leading to PTOA of the knee in 23-50% of individuals who had acute knee trauma. In this context, we additionally discuss methods of simulating knee trauma and inflammation in in vivo, ex vivo articular cartilage explant and in vitro chondrocyte models, and answer whether these models are representative of the clinical inflammatory stages following knee trauma. Moreover, we compare the pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations used in such models and demonstrate that, compared to concentrations in the synovial fluid after knee trauma, they are exceedingly high. We then used the Bradford Hill Framework to present evidence that TNF-α and IL-6 cytokines are causal factors, while IL-1β and IL-17 are credible factors in inducing knee PTOA disease progresssion. Lastly, we discuss beneficial infrastructure for future studies to dissect the role of local vs. systemic inflammation in PTOA progression with an emphasis on early disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Melanie L. Hart
- G.E.R.N. Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (C.M.K.); (R.A.); (J.M.H.); (B.R.)
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8
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Tschaikowsky M, Selig M, Brander S, Balzer BN, Hugel T, Rolauffs B. Proof-of-concept for the detection of early osteoarthritis pathology by clinically applicable endomicroscopy and quantitative AI-supported optical biopsy. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2021; 29:269-279. [PMID: 33220445 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Clinical trials for osteoarthritis (OA), the leading cause of global disability, are unable to pinpoint the early, potentially reversible disease with clinical technology. Hence, disease-modifying drug candidates cannot be tested early in the disease. To overcome this obstacle, we asked whether early OA-pathology detection is possible with current clinical technology. METHODS We determined the relationship between two sensitive early OA markers, atomic force microscopy (AFM)-measured human articular cartilage (AC) surface stiffness, and location-matched superficial zone chondrocyte spatial organizations (SCSOs), asking whether a significant loss of surface stiffness can be detected in early OA SCSO stages. We then tested whether current clinical technology can visualize and accurately diagnose the SCSOs using an approved probe-based confocal laser-endomicroscope and a random forest (RF) model. RESULTS We demonstrated a correlation between AC surface stiffness and the SCSO (rrm = -0.91; 95%CI: -0.97, -0.73), and an extensive loss of surface stiffness specifically in those ACs with early OA-typical SCSO (95%CIs: string SCSO: 269-173 kPa, double string SCSO: 77-46 kPa). This established the SCSO as a visualizable, functionally relevant surrogate marker of early OA AC surface pathology. Moreover, SCSO-based stiffness discrimination worked well in each patient's AC. We then demonstrated feasibility of visualizing the SCSO by clinical laser-endomicroscopy and, importantly, accurate SCSO diagnosis using RF. CONCLUSION We present the proof-of-concept of early OA-pathology detection with available clinical technology, introducing a future-oriented, AI-supported, non-destructive quantitative optical biopsy for early disease detection. Operationalizing SCSO recognition, this approach allows testing for correlations between local tissue architectures with other experimental and clinical read-outs, but needs clinical validation and a larger sample size for defining diagnostic thresholds.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Tschaikowsky
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Albertstr. 21, 79104, Freiburg, Germany; G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center - Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - M Selig
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center - Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - S Brander
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Albertstr. 21, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - B N Balzer
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Albertstr. 21, 79104, Freiburg, Germany; Cluster of Excellence LivMatS @ FIT - Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, Freiburg, Germany
| | - T Hugel
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Albertstr. 21, 79104, Freiburg, Germany; Cluster of Excellence LivMatS @ FIT - Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - B Rolauffs
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center - Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Germany.
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9
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Danalache M, Erler AL, Wolfgart JM, Schwitalle M, Hofmann UK. Biochemical changes of the pericellular matrix and spatial chondrocyte organization-Two highly interconnected hallmarks of osteoarthritis. J Orthop Res 2020; 38:2170-2180. [PMID: 32301522 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
During osteoarthritis, chondrocytes change their spatial arrangement from single to double strings, then to small and big clusters. This change in pattern has recently been established as an image-based biomarker for osteoarthritis. The pericellular matrix (PCM) appears to degrade together alongside cellular reorganization. The aim of this study was to characterize this PCM-degradation based on different cellular patterns. We additionally wanted to identify the earliest time point of PCM-breakdown in this physiopathological model. To this end, cartilage samples were selected according to their predominant cellular pattern. Qualitative analysis of PCM degradation was performed immunohistochemically by analysing five main PCM components: collagen type VI, perlecan, collagen type III, biglycan, and fibrillin-1 (n = 6 patients). Their protein content was quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (127 patients). Accompanying spatial cellular rearrangement, the PCM is progressively destroyed, with a pericellular signal loss in fluorescence microscopy for collagen type VI, perlecan, and biglycan. This loss in protein signal is accompanied by a reduction in total protein content from single strings to big clusters (P < .001 for collagen type VI, P = .003 for perlecan, and P < .001 for biglycan). As a result of an increase in the number of cells from single strings to big clusters, the amount of protein available per cell also decreases for collagen type III and fibrillin-1, where total protein levels remain constant. Biochemical changes of the PCM and cellular rearrangement are thus highly interconnected hallmarks of osteoarthritis. Interestingly, the earliest point in time for a relevant PCM impairment appears to be at the transition to small clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Danalache
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Anna-Lisa Erler
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Medical Faculty of the University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Julius M Wolfgart
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Medical Faculty of the University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Ulf K Hofmann
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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10
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Selig M, Lauer JC, Hart ML, Rolauffs B. Mechanotransduction and Stiffness-Sensing: Mechanisms and Opportunities to Control Multiple Molecular Aspects of Cell Phenotype as a Design Cornerstone of Cell-Instructive Biomaterials for Articular Cartilage Repair. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E5399. [PMID: 32751354 PMCID: PMC7432012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Since material stiffness controls many cell functions, we reviewed the currently available knowledge on stiffness sensing and elucidated what is known in the context of clinical and experimental articular cartilage (AC) repair. Remarkably, no stiffness information on the various biomaterials for clinical AC repair was accessible. Using mRNA expression profiles and morphology as surrogate markers of stiffness-related effects, we deduced that the various clinically available biomaterials control chondrocyte (CH) phenotype well, but not to equal extents, and only in non-degenerative settings. Ample evidence demonstrates that multiple molecular aspects of CH and mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) phenotype are susceptible to material stiffness, because proliferation, migration, lineage determination, shape, cytoskeletal properties, expression profiles, cell surface receptor composition, integrin subunit expression, and nuclear shape and composition of CHs and/or MSCs are stiffness-regulated. Moreover, material stiffness modulates MSC immuno-modulatory and angiogenic properties, transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)-induced lineage determination, and CH re-differentiation/de-differentiation, collagen type II fragment production, and TGF-β1- and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β)-induced changes in cell stiffness and traction force. We then integrated the available molecular signaling data into a stiffness-regulated CH phenotype model. Overall, we recommend using material stiffness for controlling cell phenotype, as this would be a promising design cornerstone for novel future-oriented, cell-instructive biomaterials for clinical high-quality AC repair tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mischa Selig
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (M.S.); (J.C.L.); (M.L.H.)
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schaenzlestrasse 1, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jasmin C. Lauer
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (M.S.); (J.C.L.); (M.L.H.)
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schaenzlestrasse 1, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Melanie L. Hart
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (M.S.); (J.C.L.); (M.L.H.)
| | - Bernd Rolauffs
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (M.S.); (J.C.L.); (M.L.H.)
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11
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Danalache M, Kleinert R, Schneider J, Erler AL, Schwitalle M, Riester R, Traub F, Hofmann UK. Changes in stiffness and biochemical composition of the pericellular matrix as a function of spatial chondrocyte organisation in osteoarthritic cartilage. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2019; 27:823-832. [PMID: 30711608 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2019.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Revised: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE During osteoarthritis (OA), chondrocytes seem to change their spatial arrangement from single to double strings, small and big clusters. Since the pericellular matrix (PCM) appears to degrade alongside this reorganisation, it has been suggested that spatial patterns act as an image-based biomarker for OA. The aim of this study was to establish the functional relevance of spatial organisation in articular cartilage. METHOD Cartilage samples were selected according to their predominant spatial cellular pattern. Young's modulus of their PCM was measured by atomic force microscopy (AFM) (∼500 measurements/pattern). The distribution of two major PCM components (collagen type VI and perlecan) was analysed by immunohistochemistry (8 patients) and protein content quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (58 patients). RESULTS PCM stiffness significantly decreased with the development from single to double strings (p = 0.030), from double strings to small clusters (p = 0.015), and from small clusters to big clusters (p < 0.001). At the same time, the initially compact collagen type VI and perlecan staining progressively weakened and was less focalised. The earliest point with a significant reduction in protein content as shown by ELISA was the transition from single strings to small clusters for collagen type VI (p = 0.016) and from double strings to small clusters for perlecan (p = 0.008), with the lowest amounts for both proteins seen in big clusters. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the functional relevance of spatial chondrocyte organisation as an image-based biomarker. At the transition from single to double strings PCM stiffness decreases, followed by protein degradation from double strings to small clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Danalache
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Waldhörnlestraße 22, D-72072 Tübingen, Germany.
| | - R Kleinert
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Waldhörnlestraße 22, D-72072 Tübingen, Germany.
| | - J Schneider
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Waldhörnlestraße 22, D-72072 Tübingen, Germany.
| | - A L Erler
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Waldhörnlestraße 22, D-72072 Tübingen, Germany; Medical Faculty of the University of Tübingen, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany.
| | - M Schwitalle
- Winghofer Medicum, Röntgenstraße 38, D-72108 Rottenburg am Neckar, Germany.
| | - R Riester
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Waldhörnlestraße 22, D-72072 Tübingen, Germany.
| | - F Traub
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Waldhörnlestraße 22, D-72072 Tübingen, Germany; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Strasse 3, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany.
| | - U K Hofmann
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Waldhörnlestraße 22, D-72072 Tübingen, Germany; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Strasse 3, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany.
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12
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Zhu X, Wang L, Teng X, Chen Q, Pan C. N-Methyl Pyrrolidone (NMP) Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-Induced Inflammatory Injury in Articular Chondrocytes. Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:6480-6488. [PMID: 30218608 PMCID: PMC6151968 DOI: 10.12659/msm.910050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies on the chondrocyte inflammatory injury are very important for understanding the pathogenesis and clinical treatment of osteoarthritis (OA). Evidence suggests that N-methyl pyrrolidone (NMP) may be used as an adjuvant therapy alongside established methods of OA treatment. This study investigated the effect of NMP on chondrocyte inflammatory injury and explored the underlying molecular mechanism. Material/Methods To mimic the inflammatory injury in vitro, the articular chondrocyte line ATDC5 was simulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). ATDC5 cells were treated with various concentrations of NMP (0, 5, and 10 nM). Cell viability was measured using CCK-8 assay; cell apoptosis was detected using FCM; related protein and mRNA expressions were determined using Western blot assay and qRT-PCR assay; and inflammatory factors (tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-8) productions were measured by performing ELISA assay. Results The results showed that LPS simulation repressed ATDC5 cell viability, prompted cell apoptosis, and enhanced the secretion of inflammatory factors. NMP treatment reduced inflammatory injury induced by LPS in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, NMP inhibited the activation of JNK and p38 pathways. In addition, inhibition of NF-κB activation was observed following NMP treatment. Conclusions NMP prevents inflammatory reaction of articular chondrocytes via repressing the MAPK/NF-κB pathway. Our findings provide a promising therapeutic agent for OA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianping Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Taizhou Central Hospital (Affiliated Hospital of Taizhou University), Taizhou, Zhejiang, China (mainland)
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Taizhou Central Hospital (Affiliated Hospital of Taizhou University), Taizhou, Zhejiang, China (mainland)
| | - Xiao Teng
- Department of Orthopedics, Taizhou Central Hospital (Affiliated Hospital of Taizhou University), Taizhou, Zhejiang, China (mainland)
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Taizhou Central Hospital (Affiliated Hospital of Taizhou University), Taizhou, Zhejiang, China (mainland)
| | - Chenshuai Pan
- Department of Orthopedics, Taizhou Central Hospital (Affiliated Hospital of Taizhou University), Taizhou, Zhejiang, China (mainland)
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13
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Onset and Progression of Human Osteoarthritis-Can Growth Factors, Inflammatory Cytokines, or Differential miRNA Expression Concomitantly Induce Proliferation, ECM Degradation, and Inflammation in Articular Cartilage? Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19082282. [PMID: 30081513 PMCID: PMC6121276 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19082282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 07/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative whole joint disease, for which no preventative or therapeutic biological interventions are available. This is likely due to the fact that OA pathogenesis includes several signaling pathways, whose interactions remain unclear, especially at disease onset. Early OA is characterized by three key events: a rarely considered early phase of proliferation of cartilage-resident cells, in contrast to well-established increased synthesis, and degradation of extracellular matrix components and inflammation, associated with OA progression. We focused on the question, which of these key events are regulated by growth factors, inflammatory cytokines, and/or miRNA abundance. Collectively, we elucidated a specific sequence of the OA key events that are described best as a very early phase of proliferation of human articular cartilage (AC) cells and concomitant anabolic/catabolic effects that are accompanied by incipient pro-inflammatory effects. Many of the reviewed factors appeared able to induce one or two key events. Only one factor, fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), is capable of concomitantly inducing all key events. Moreover, AC cell proliferation cannot be induced and, in fact, is suppressed by inflammatory signaling, suggesting that inflammatory signaling cannot be the sole inductor of all early OA key events, especially at disease onset.
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14
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Boehme KA, Schleicher SB, Traub F, Rolauffs B. Chondrosarcoma: A Rare Misfortune in Aging Human Cartilage? The Role of Stem and Progenitor Cells in Proliferation, Malignant Degeneration and Therapeutic Resistance. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19010311. [PMID: 29361725 PMCID: PMC5796255 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19010311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Revised: 01/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Unlike other malignant bone tumors including osteosarcomas and Ewing sarcomas with a peak incidence in adolescents and young adults, conventional and dedifferentiated chondrosarcomas mainly affect people in the 4th to 7th decade of life. To date, the cell type of chondrosarcoma origin is not clearly defined. However, it seems that mesenchymal stem and progenitor cells (MSPC) in the bone marrow facing a pro-proliferative as well as predominantly chondrogenic differentiation milieu, as is implicated in early stage osteoarthritis (OA) at that age, are the source of chondrosarcoma genesis. But how can MSPC become malignant? Indeed, only one person in 1,000,000 will develop a chondrosarcoma, whereas the incidence of OA is a thousandfold higher. This means a rare coincidence of factors allowing escape from senescence and apoptosis together with induction of angiogenesis and migration is needed to generate a chondrosarcoma. At early stages, chondrosarcomas are still assumed to be an intermediate type of tumor which rarely metastasizes. Unfortunately, advanced stages show a pronounced resistance both against chemo- and radiation-therapy and frequently metastasize. In this review, we elucidate signaling pathways involved in the genesis and therapeutic resistance of chondrosarcomas with a focus on MSPC compared to signaling in articular cartilage (AC).
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen A Boehme
- G.E.R.N. Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center-Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79108 Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Sabine B Schleicher
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Children's Hospital, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany.
| | - Frank Traub
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany.
| | - Bernd Rolauffs
- G.E.R.N. Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center-Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79108 Freiburg, Germany.
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15
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Uynuk-Ool T, Rothdiener M, Walters B, Hegemann M, Palm J, Nguyen P, Seeger T, Stöckle U, Stegemann JP, Aicher WK, Kurz B, Hart ML, Klein G, Rolauffs B. The geometrical shape of mesenchymal stromal cells measured by quantitative shape descriptors is determined by the stiffness of the biomaterial and by cyclic tensile forces. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2017; 11:3508-3522. [PMID: 28371409 DOI: 10.1002/term.2263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Controlling mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) shape is a novel method for investigating and directing MSC behaviour in vitro. it was hypothesized that specifigc MSC shapes can be generated by using stiffness-defined biomaterial surfaces and by applying cyclic tensile forces. Biomaterials used were thin and thick silicone sheets, fibronectin coating, and compacted collagen type I sheets. The MSC morphology was quantified by shape descriptors describing dimensions and membrane protrusions. Nanoscale stiffness was measured by atomic force microscopy and the expression of smooth muscle cell (SMC) marker genes (ACTA2, TAGLN, CNN1) by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Cyclic stretch was applied with 2.5% or 5% amplitudes. Attachment to biomaterials with a higher stiffness yielded more elongated MSCs with fewer membrane protrusions compared with biomaterials with a lower stiffness. For cyclic stretch, compacted collagen sheets were selected, which were associated with the most elongated MSC shape across all investigated biomaterials. As expected, cyclic stretch elongated MSCs during stretch. One hour after cessation of stretch, however, MSC shape was rounder again, suggesting loss of stretch-induced shape. Different shape descriptor values obtained by different stretch regimes correlated significantly with the expression levels of SMC marker genes. Values of approximately 0.4 for roundness and 3.4 for aspect ratio were critical for the highest expression levels of ACTA2 and CNN1. Thus, specific shape descriptor values, which can be generated using biomaterial-associated stiffness and tensile forces, can serve as a template for the induction of specific gene expression levels in MSC. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Uynuk-Ool
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tübingen, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Miriam Rothdiener
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tübingen, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Brandan Walters
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Miriam Hegemann
- Department of Urology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Julian Palm
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tübingen, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Phong Nguyen
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tübingen, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tanja Seeger
- University Medical Clinic, Department II, Centre for Medical Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Stöckle
- Clinic for Trauma and Restorative Surgery, BG Trauma Clinic Tübingen, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jan P Stegemann
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Wilhelm K Aicher
- Department of Urology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bodo Kurz
- Department of Anatomy, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Melanie L Hart
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tübingen, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Gerd Klein
- University Medical Clinic, Department II, Centre for Medical Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bernd Rolauffs
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center - Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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16
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Delco ML, Kennedy JG, Bonassar LJ, Fortier LA. Post-traumatic osteoarthritis of the ankle: A distinct clinical entity requiring new research approaches. J Orthop Res 2017; 35:440-453. [PMID: 27764893 PMCID: PMC5467729 DOI: 10.1002/jor.23462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The diagnosis of ankle osteoarthritis (OA) is increasing as a result of advancements in non-invasive imaging modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging, improved arthroscopic surgical technology and heightened awareness among clinicians. Unlike OA of the knee, primary or age-related ankle OA is rare, with the majority of ankle OA classified as post-traumatic (PTOA). Ankle trauma, more specifically ankle sprain, is the single most common athletic injury, and no effective therapies are available to prevent or slow progression of PTOA. Despite the high incidence of ankle trauma and OA, ankle-related OA research is sparse, with the majority of clinical and basic studies pertaining to the knee joint. Fundamental differences exist between joints including their structure and molecular composition, response to trauma, susceptibility to OA, clinical manifestations of disease, and response to treatment. Considerable evidence suggests that research findings from knee should not be extrapolated to the ankle, however few ankle-specific preclinical models of PTOA are currently available. The objective of this article is to review the current state of ankle OA investigation, highlighting important differences between the ankle and knee that may limit the extent to which research findings from knee models are applicable to the ankle joint. Considerations for the development of new ankle-specific, clinically relevant animal models are discussed. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:440-453, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L. Delco
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, 930 Campus Road, Ithaca, New York
| | - John G. Kennedy
- Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York
| | - Lawrence J. Bonassar
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meining School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
| | - Lisa A. Fortier
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, 930 Campus Road, Ithaca, New York
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17
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EGFR signaling is critical for maintaining the superficial layer of articular cartilage and preventing osteoarthritis initiation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:14360-14365. [PMID: 27911782 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1608938113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease, characterized by progressive destruction of the articular cartilage. The surface of joint cartilage is the first defensive and affected site of OA, but our knowledge of genesis and homeostasis of this superficial zone is scarce. EGFR signaling is important for tissue homeostasis. Immunostaining revealed that its activity is mostly dominant in the superficial layer of healthy cartilage but greatly diminished when OA initiates. To evaluate the role of EGFR signaling in the articular cartilage, we studied a cartilage-specific Egfr-deficient (CKO) mouse model (Col2-Cre EgfrWa5/flox). These mice developed early cartilage degeneration at 6 mo of age. By 2 mo of age, although their gross cartilage morphology appears normal, CKO mice had a drastically reduced number of superficial chondrocytes and decreased lubricant secretion at the surface. Using superficial chondrocyte and cartilage explant cultures, we demonstrated that EGFR signaling is critical for maintaining the number and properties of superficial chondrocytes, promoting chondrogenic proteoglycan 4 (Prg4) expression, and stimulating the lubrication function of the cartilage surface. In addition, EGFR deficiency greatly disorganized collagen fibrils in articular cartilage and strikingly reduced cartilage surface modulus. After surgical induction of OA at 3 mo of age, CKO mice quickly developed the most severe OA phenotype, including a complete loss of cartilage, extremely high surface modulus, subchondral bone plate thickening, and elevated joint pain. Taken together, our studies establish EGFR signaling as an important regulator of the superficial layer during articular cartilage development and OA initiation.
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18
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Rothdiener M, Hegemann M, Uynuk-Ool T, Walters B, Papugy P, Nguyen P, Claus V, Seeger T, Stoeckle U, Boehme KA, Aicher WK, Stegemann JP, Hart ML, Kurz B, Klein G, Rolauffs B. Stretching human mesenchymal stromal cells on stiffness-customized collagen type I generates a smooth muscle marker profile without growth factor addition. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35840. [PMID: 27775041 PMCID: PMC5075785 DOI: 10.1038/srep35840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Using matrix elasticity and cyclic stretch have been investigated for inducing mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) differentiation towards the smooth muscle cell (SMC) lineage but not in combination. We hypothesized that combining lineage-specific stiffness with cyclic stretch would result in a significantly increased expression of SMC markers, compared to non-stretched controls. First, we generated dense collagen type I sheets by mechanically compressing collagen hydrogels. Atomic force microscopy revealed a nanoscale stiffness range known to support myogenic differentiation. Further characterization revealed viscoelasticity and stable biomechanical properties under cyclic stretch with >99% viable adherent human MSC. MSCs on collagen sheets demonstrated a significantly increased mRNA but not protein expression of SMC markers, compared to on culture flasks. However, cyclic stretch of MSCs on collagen sheets significantly increased both mRNA and protein expression of α-smooth muscle actin, transgelin, and calponin versus plastic and non-stretched sheets. Thus, lineage-specific stiffness and cyclic stretch can be applied together for inducing MSC differentiation towards SMCs without the addition of recombinant growth factors or other soluble factors. This represents a novel stimulation method for modulating the phenotype of MSCs towards SMCs that could easily be incorporated into currently available methodologies to obtain a more targeted control of MSC phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Rothdiener
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | - Tatiana Uynuk-Ool
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Brandan Walters
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Piruntha Papugy
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Phong Nguyen
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Valentin Claus
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Tanja Seeger
- Center for Medical Research, Medical University Clinic II, University of Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Stoeckle
- Clinic for Trauma and Restorative Surgery, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Karen A. Boehme
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | - Jan P. Stegemann
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Melanie L. Hart
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bodo Kurz
- Department of Anatomy, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Gerd Klein
- Center for Medical Research, Medical University Clinic II, University of Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Bernd Rolauffs
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Freiburg, Germany
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19
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Felka T, Rothdiener M, Bast S, Uynuk-Ool T, Zouhair S, Ochs BG, De Zwart P, Stoeckle U, Aicher WK, Hart ML, Shiozawa T, Grodzinsky AJ, Schenke-Layland K, Venkatesan JK, Cucchiarini M, Madry H, Kurz B, Rolauffs B. Loss of spatial organization and destruction of the pericellular matrix in early osteoarthritis in vivo and in a novel in vitro methodology. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2016; 24:1200-9. [PMID: 26879798 PMCID: PMC4907798 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2016.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Revised: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Current repair procedures for articular cartilage (AC) cannot restore the tissue's original form and function because neither changes in its architectural blueprint throughout life nor the respective biological understanding is fully available. We asked whether two unique elements of human cartilage architecture, the chondrocyte-surrounding pericellular matrix (PCM) and the superficial chondrocyte spatial organization (SCSO) beneath the articular surface (AS) are congenital, stable or dynamic throughout life. We hypothesized that inducing chondrocyte proliferation in vitro impairs organization and PCM and induces an advanced osteoarthritis (OA)-like structural phenotype of human cartilage. METHODS We recorded propidium-iodine-stained fetal and adult cartilage explants, arranged stages of organization into a sequence, and created a lifetime-summarizing SCSO model. To replicate the OA-associated dynamics revealed by our model, and to test our hypothesis, we transduced specifically early OA-explants with hFGF-2 for inducing proliferation. The PCM was examined using immuno- and auto-fluorescence, multiphoton second-harmonic-generation (SHG), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). RESULTS Spatial organization evolved from fetal homogeneity, peaked with adult string-like arrangements, but was completely lost in OA. Loss of organization included PCM perforation (local micro-fibrillar collagen intensity decrease) and destruction [regional collagen type VI (CollVI) signal weakness or absence]. Importantly, both loss of organization and PCM destruction were successfully recapitulated in FGF-2-transduced explants. CONCLUSION Induced proliferation of spatially characterized early OA-chondrocytes within standardized explants recapitulated the full range of loss of SCSO and PCM destruction, introducing a novel in vitro methodology. This methodology induces a structural phenotype of human cartilage that is similar to advanced OA and potentially of significance and utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tino Felka
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Miriam Rothdiener
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Sina Bast
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Tatiana Uynuk-Ool
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Sabra Zouhair
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Björn Gunnar Ochs
- Clinic for Trauma and Restorative Surgery, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Peter De Zwart
- Clinic for Trauma and Restorative Surgery, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Stoeckle
- Clinic for Trauma and Restorative Surgery, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Wilhelm K Aicher
- Department of Urology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Melanie L Hart
- Department of Urology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Shiozawa
- Institute of Clinical Anatomy and Cell Analysis, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Alan J Grodzinsky
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, USA
| | - Katja Schenke-Layland
- Department of Women’s Health, Research Institute for Women’s Health, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany,Department of Cell and Tissue Engineering, Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology (IGB), Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Jagadeesh K Venkatesan
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Germany
| | - Magali Cucchiarini
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Germany
| | - Henning Madry
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Germany
| | - Bodo Kurz
- Anatomical Institute, Christian-Albrecht-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Bernd Rolauffs
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany,Clinic for Trauma and Restorative Surgery, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany,Center for Biomedical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, USA,Corresponding Author: Bernd Rolauffs, Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, BG Trauma Clinic Tuebingen, University of Tuebingen, ZMF, Waldhoernlestr. 22, 72074 Tuebingen, Germany,
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Candela ME, Yasuhara R, Iwamoto M, Enomoto-Iwamoto M. Resident mesenchymal progenitors of articular cartilage. Matrix Biol 2014; 39:44-9. [PMID: 25179676 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2014.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Articular cartilage has poor capacity of self-renewal and repair. Insufficient number and activity of resident mesenchymal (connective tissue) progenitors is likely one of the underlying reasons. Chondroprogenitors reside not only in the superficial zone of articular cartilage but also in other zones of articular cartilage and in the neighboring tissues, including perichondrium (groove of Ranvier), synovium and fat pad. These cells may respond to injury and contribute to articular cartilage healing. In addition, marrow stromal cells can migrate through subchondral bone when articular cartilage is damaged. We should develop drugs and methods that correctly stimulate resident progenitors for improvement of repair and inhibition of degenerative changes in articular cartilage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Elena Candela
- Translational Research Program in Pediatric Orthopaedics, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rika Yasuhara
- Division of Pathology, Department of Diagnostic Science, School of Dentistry, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Iwamoto
- Translational Research Program in Pediatric Orthopaedics, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Perleman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Motomi Enomoto-Iwamoto
- Translational Research Program in Pediatric Orthopaedics, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Perleman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Aicher WK, Rolauffs B. The spatial organisation of joint surface chondrocytes: review of its potential roles in tissue functioning, disease and early, preclinical diagnosis of osteoarthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2013; 73:645-53. [PMID: 24363359 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2013-204308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Chondrocytes display within the articular cartilage depth-dependent variations of their many properties that are comparable to the depth-dependent changes of the properties of the surrounding extracellular matrix. However, not much is known about the spatial organisation of the chondrocytes throughout the tissue. Recent studies revealed that human chondrocytes display distinct spatial patterns of organisation within the articular surface, and each joint surface is dominated in a typical way by one of four basic spatial patterns. The resulting complex spatial organisations correlate with the specific diarthrodial joint type, suggesting an association of the chondrocyte organisation within the joint surface with the occurring biomechanical forces. In response to focal osteoarthritis (OA), the superficial chondrocytes experience a destruction of their spatial organisation within the OA lesion, but they also undergo a defined remodelling process distant from the OA lesion in the remaining, intact cartilage surface. One of the biological insights that can be derived from this spatial remodelling process is that the chondrocytes are able to respond in a generalised and coordinated fashion to distant focal OA. The spatial characteristics of this process are tremendously different from the cellular aggregations typical for OA lesions, suggesting differences in the underlying mechanisms. Here we summarise the available information on the spatial organisation of chondrocytes and its potential roles in cartilage functioning. The spatial organisation could be used to diagnose early OA onset before manifest OA results in tissue destruction and clinical symptoms. With further development, this concept may become clinically suitable for the diagnosis of preclinical OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilhelm K Aicher
- KFO273, Department of Urology, Eberhard Karls University, , Tuebingen, Germany
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Madry H, Luyten FP, Facchini A. Biological aspects of early osteoarthritis. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2012; 20:407-22. [PMID: 22009557 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-011-1705-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Accepted: 10/04/2011] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Early OA primarily affects articular cartilage and involves the entire joint, including the subchondral bone, synovial membrane, menisci and periarticular structures. The aim of this review is to highlight the molecular basis and histopathological features of early OA. METHODS Selective review of literature. RESULTS Risk factors for developing early OA include, but are not limited to, a genetic predisposition, mechanical factors such as axial malalignment, and aging. In early OA, the articular cartilage surface is progressively becoming discontinuous, showing fibrillation and vertical fissures that extend not deeper than into the mid-zone of the articular cartilage, reflective of OARSI grades 1.0-3.0. Early changes in the subchondral bone comprise a progressive increase in subchondral plate and subarticular spongiosa thickness. Early OA affects not only the articular cartilage and the subchondral bone but also other structures of the joint, such as the menisci, the synovial membrane, the joint capsule, ligaments, muscles and the infrapatellar fat pad. Genetic markers or marker combinations may become useful in the future to identify early OA and patients at risk. CONCLUSION The high socioeconomic impact of OA suggests that a better insight into the mechanisms of early OA may be a key to develop more targeted reconstructive therapies at this first stage of the disease. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Systematic review, Level II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henning Madry
- Experimental Orthopaedics and Osteoarthritis Research, Saarland University, Kirrbergerstrasse, Building 37, 66421, Homburg, Germany.
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Meinhardt M, Lück S, Martin P, Felka T, Aicher W, Rolauffs B, Schmidt V. Modeling chondrocyte patterns by elliptical cluster processes. J Struct Biol 2011; 177:447-58. [PMID: 22155191 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2011.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2011] [Revised: 11/21/2011] [Accepted: 11/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Superficial zone chondrocytes (CHs) of human joints are spatially organized in distinct horizontal patterns. Among other factors, the type of spatial CH organization within a given articular surface depends on whether the cartilage has been derived from an intact joint or the joint is affected by osteoarthritis (OA). Furthermore, specific variations of the type of spatial organization are associated with particular states of OA. This association may prove relevant for early disease recognition based on a quantitative structural characterization of CH patterns. Therefore, we present a point process model describing the distinct morphology of CH patterns within the articular surface of intact human cartilage. This reference model for intact CH organization can be seen as a first step towards a model-based statistical diagnostic tool. Model parameters are fitted to fluorescence microscopy data by a novel statistical methodology utilizing tools from cluster and principal component analysis. This way, the complex morphology of surface CH patters is represented by a relatively small number of model parameters. We validate the point process model by comparing biologically relevant structural characteristics between the fitted model and data derived from photomicrographs of the human articular surface using techniques from spatial statistics.
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Mollenhauer JA. Closing ranks: the chondrocytes' move in bad times or biomechanical job sharing? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 63:1475-6. [PMID: 21630242 DOI: 10.1002/art.30218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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