Characterization of aggrecan retained and lost from the extracellular matrix of articular cartilage. Involvement of carboxyl-terminal processing in the catabolism of aggrecan

Synergetic enrichment of aggrecan in nucleus pulposus cells by scAAV6-shRNA-mediated knockdown of aggrecanase-1 and aggrecanase-2

Degenerative disk disease (DDD) that aggravates structural deterioration of intervertebral disks (IVDs) can be accompanied by painful inflammation and immunopathological progressions. Current surgical or pharmacological therapies cannot repair the structure and function of IVDs. Nucleus pulposus (NP) cells are crucial for the preservation or restoration of IVDs by balancing the anabolic and catabolic factors affecting the extracellular matrix. Imbalanced anabolic and catabolic factors cause increased degradation of aggrecan. Aggrecanases A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase with ThromboSpondin motifs (ADAMTS)4 and ADAMTS5 are the main degrading enzymes of aggrecan. Previously, we characterized adeno-associated virus (AAV6) as the most suitable serotype with marked NP cellular tropism and demonstrated that ADAMTS4 could be silenced by self-complementary adeno-associated virus grade 6 small helix ribonucleic acid (scAAV6-shRNA) in NP cells of degeneration grade III, which resulted in enrichment of aggrecan. Nonetheless, neither scAAV6-shRNA-mediated inhibition of ADAMTS5 nor joint inhibitions of ADAMTS4 and ADAMTS5 have been investigated, although both enzymes are regulated by analogous proinflammatory cytokines and have the same cleavage sites in aggrecan. Therefore, we attempted scAAV6-shRNA-mediated inhibitions of both enzymes in NP cells of degeneration grade IV to increase efficacies in treatments of DDD. The degeneration grade of IVDs in patients was determined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before surgical operations. After isolation and culturing of NP cells, cells were transduced with scAAV6-shRNAs targeting ADAMTS4 or ADAMTS5. Transduced cells were analyzed by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry-assisted cell sorting (FACS), MTT assay (3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay), immunoblotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Joint transduction of NP cells exhibited high transduction efficacies (98.1%), high transduction units (TU) (1381 TU/Cell), and no effect on cell viability or proliferation. Above all joint treatments resulted in effective knockdown of ADAMTS4 (92.8%) and ADAMTS5 (93.4%) along with additive enrichment of aggrecan (113.9%). Treatment effects were significant for more than 56 days after transduction (P < 0.001). In conclusion, scAAV6-shRNA-mediated combined molecular therapy could be very valuable for more effective, durable, and less immunogenic treatment approaches in DDD.

The essential anti-angiogenic strategies in cartilage engineering and osteoarthritic cartilage repair

In the cartilage matrix, complex interactions occur between angiogenic and anti-angiogenic components, growth factors, and environmental stressors to maintain a proper cartilage phenotype that allows for effective load bearing and force distribution. However, as seen in both degenerative disease and tissue engineering, cartilage can lose its vascular resistance. This vascularization then leads to matrix breakdown, chondrocyte apoptosis, and ossification. Research has shown that articular cartilage inflammation leads to compromised joint function and decreased clinical potential for regeneration. Unfortunately, few articles comprehensively summarize what we have learned from previous investigations. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the factors that stabilize chondrocytes to prevent terminal differentiation and applications of these factors to rescue the cartilage phenotype during cartilage engineering and osteoarthritis treatment. Inhibiting vascularization will allow for enhanced phenotypic stability so that we are able to develop more stable implants for cartilage repair and regeneration.

Analysis of Aggrecanase Activity Using Neoepitope Antibodies

Aggrecan is a major matrix component of articular cartilage, and its dysregulated proteolysis is a crucial event in the pathogenesis of arthritis. Aggrecanases, members of ADAMTS family, play a pivotal role in aggrecan degradation with ADAMTS-4 and ADAMTS-5 being key enzymes. Cleavage events mediated by ADAMTSs are highly specific and very well characterized; therefore, it is possible to investigate aggrecanolysis by using antibodies reacting with the new N- and C-termini of the cleavage products (neoepitope antibodies). Here, we present a method for analyzing dynamic aggrecanolysis by Western blotting using neoepitope antibodies in combination with antibodies against total aggrecan fragments. The protocol is robust and has a broad application for investigation of aggrecanase activity in vitro and ex vivo.

Metalloprotease inhibitor TIMP proteins control FGF-2 bioavailability and regulate skeletal growth

Saw et al. show via the combinatorial deletion of Timp family members in mice that metalloprotease regulation of FGF-2 is a crucial event in the chondrocyte maturation program, underlying the growth plate development and bone elongation responsible for attaining proper body stature.

Regulated growth plate activity is essential for postnatal bone development and body stature, yet the systems regulating epiphyseal fusion are poorly understood. Here, we show that the tissue inhibitors of metalloprotease (TIMP) gene family is essential for normal bone growth after birth. Whole-body quadruple-knockout mice lacking all four TIMPs have growth plate closure in long bones, precipitating limb shortening, epiphyseal distortion, and widespread chondrodysplasia. We identify TIMP/FGF-2/IHH as a novel nexus underlying bone lengthening where TIMPs negatively regulate the release of FGF-2 from chondrocytes to allow IHH expression. Using a knock-in approach that combines MMP-resistant or ADAMTS-resistant aggrecans with TIMP deficiency, we uncouple growth plate activity in axial and appendicular bones. Thus, natural metalloprotease inhibitors are crucial regulators of chondrocyte maturation program, growth plate integrity, and skeletal proportionality. Furthermore, individual and combinatorial TIMP-deficient mice demonstrate the redundancy of metalloprotease inhibitor function in embryonic and postnatal development.

ADAMTS-9 in Mouse Cartilage Has Aggrecanase Activity That Is Distinct from ADAMTS-4 and ADAMTS-5

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS)-4 and ADAMTS-5 are the principal aggrecanases in mice and humans; however, mice lacking the catalytic domain of both enzymes (TS-4/5∆cat) have no skeletal phenotype, suggesting there is an alternative aggrecanase for modulating normal growth and development in these mice. We previously identified aggrecanase activity that (a) cleaved at E↓G rather than E↓A bonds in the aggrecan core protein, and (b) was upregulated by retinoic acid but not IL-1α. The present study aimed to identify the alternative aggrecanase. Femoral head cartilage explants from TS-4/5∆cat mice were stimulated with IL-1α or retinoic acid and total RNA was analysed by microarray. In addition to ADAMTS-5 and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-13, which are not candidates for the novel aggrecanase, the microarray analyses identified MMP-11, calpain-5 and ADAMTS-9 as candidate aggrecanases upregulated by retinoic acid. When calpain-5 and MMP-11 failed to meet subsequent criteria, ADAMTS-9 emerged as the most likely candidate for the novel aggrecanase. Immunohistochemistry revealed ADAMTS-9 expression throughout the mouse growth plate and strong expression, particularly in the proliferative zone of the TS-4/5-∆cat mice. In conclusion, ADAMTS-9 has a novel specificity for aggrecan, cleaving primarily at E↓G rather than E↓A bonds in mouse cartilage. ADAMTS-9 might have more important roles in normal skeletal development compared with ADAMTS-4 and ADAMTS-5, which have key roles in joint pathology.

Development of Multilayered Chlorogenate-Peptide Based Biocomposite Scaffolds for Potential Applications in Ligament Tissue Engineering - An <i>In Vitro</i> Study

In this work, for the first time, chlorogenic acid, a natural phytochemical, was conjugated to a lactoferrin derived antimicrobial peptide sequence RRWQWRMKKLG to develop a self-assembled template. To mimic the components of extracellular matrix, we then incorporated Type I Collagen, followed by a sequence of aggrecan peptide (ATEGQVRVNSIYQDKVSL) onto the self-assembled templates for potential applications in ligament tissue regeneration. Mechanical properties and surface roughness were studied and the scaffolds displayed a Young’s Modulus of 169 MP and an average roughness of 72 nm respectively. Thermal phase changes were studied by DSC analysis. Results showed short endothermic peaks due to water loss and an exothermic peak due to crystallization of the scaffold caused by rearrangement of the components. Biodegradability studies indicated a percent weight loss of 27.5 % over a period of 37 days. Furthermore, the scaffolds were found to adhere to fibroblasts, the main cellular component of ligament tissue. The scaffolds promoted cell proliferation and displayed actin stress fibers indicative of cell motility and attachment. Collagen and proteoglycan synthesis were also promoted, demonstrating increased expression and deposition of collagen and proteoglycans. Additionally, the scaffolds exhibited antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus epidermis bacteria, which is beneficial for minimizing biofilm formation if potentially used as implants. Thus, we have developed a novel biocomposite that may open new avenues to enhance ligament tissue regeneration.

* Understanding the Spatiotemporal Degradation Behavior of Aggrecanase-Sensitive Poly(ethylene glycol) Hydrogels for Use in Cartilage Tissue Engineering

Enzyme-sensitive hydrogels are promising cell delivery vehicles for cartilage tissue engineering. However, a better understanding of their spatiotemporal degradation behavior and its impact on tissue growth is needed. The goal of this study was to combine experimental and computational approaches to provide new insights into spatiotemporal changes in hydrogel crosslink density and extracellular matrix (ECM) growth and how these changes influence the evolving macroscopic properties as a function of time. Hydrogels were designed from aggrecanase-sensitive peptide crosslinks using a simple and robust thiol-norbornene photoclick reaction. To study the influence of variations in cellular activity of different donors, chondrocytes were isolated from either juvenile or adult bovine donors. Initial studies were performed to validate and calibrate the model against experiments. Through this process, two key features were identified. These included spatial variations in the hydrogel crosslink density in the immediate vicinity of the cell and the presence of cell clustering within the construct. When these spatial heterogeneities were incorporated into the computational model along with model inputs of initial hydrogel properties and cellular activity (i.e., enzyme and ECM production rates), the model was able to capture the spatial and temporal evolution of ECM growth that was observed experimentally for both donors. In this study, the juvenile chondrocytes produced an interconnected matrix within the cell clusters leading to overall improved ECM growth, while the adult chondrocytes resulted in poor ECM growth. Overall, the computational model was able to capture the spatiotemporal ECM growth of two different donors and provided new insights into the importance of spatial heterogeneities in facilitating ECM growth. Our long-term goal is to use this model to predict optimal hydrogel designs for a wide range of donors and improve cartilage tissue engineering.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula "Xiaofeng granules" suppressed gouty arthritis animal models and inhibited the proteoglycan degradation on chondrocytes induced by monosodium urate

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Xiaofeng Granules (XF) is a kind of granules prepared by the famous traditional Chinese medicine formula for its efficiency in treating gouty diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We investigated the relevance between XF that made from Modified simiaowan (MSW) as the anti-gouty arthritis drugs and protective mechanisms for cartilage matrix in order to provide the evidence for new drug application.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the present study, we evaluated the anti-gouty arthritis activity of XF in rats and rabbits models induced by MSU together with chondrocytes focusing on the link to proteoglycan degradation in vitro studies.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that XF significantly reduced the swelling rate and attenuated the pathological changes in joints. The XF-containing serum were used medicated serum in cellular experiments. The in vitro data were in accordance with the in vivo results, showing that the constituents in XF-containing serum had obvious inhibitory effects on the activation of pro-inflammatory mediators in chondrocytes. Moreover, XF-containing serum substantially inhibited MSU-induced expression of glycosaminoglycans(GAG) and hydroxyproline(Hyp), and up regulated proteoglycan, which might be associated with the regulation of the balance of MMP-3/TIMP-1and ADAMTS-4/TIMP-3 inchondrocytes.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, XF that made from MSW showed obvious effects on acute gouty arthritis, which also provided an effective protection on cartilage matrix degradation.

Proteoglycan degradation by the ADAMTS family of proteinases

Proteoglycans are key components of extracellular matrices, providing structural support as well as influencing cellular behaviour in physiological and pathological processes. The diversity of proteoglycan function reported in the literature is equally matched by diversity in proteoglycan structure. Members of the ADAMTS (A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase with ThromboSpondin motifs) family of enzymes degrade proteoglycans and thereby have the potential to alter tissue architecture and regulate cellular function. In this review, we focus on ADAMTS enzymes that degrade the lectican and small leucine-rich repeat families of proteoglycans. We discuss the known ADAMTS cleavage sites and the consequences of cleavage at these sites. We illustrate our discussion with examples from the literature in which ADAMTS proteolysis of proteoglycans makes profound changes to tissue function.

Aggrecanase and aggrecan degradation in osteoarthritis: a review

Aggrecanase-mediated aggrecan degradation is a significant event in early-stage osteoarthritis (OA). Aggrecanases belonging to the 'A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase with ThromboSpondin motifs' (ADAMTS) family of proteinases play a significant role in aggrecan depletion in osteoarthritic cartilage. There has been considerable interest in the possible role of these aggrecanases, especially ADAMTS-4 and ADAMTS-5, as therapeutic targets in OA. This article discusses recent data regarding ADAMTS-4 and ADAMTS-5 in OA, with emphasis on the relationship between aggrecanase and aggrecan degradation as well as the role of aggrecanase in OA.

Effects of glucosamine on proteoglycan loss by tendon, ligament and joint capsule explant cultures

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of glucosamine on the loss of newly synthesized radiolabeled large and small proteoglycans by bovine tendon, ligament and joint capsule.

DESIGN

The kinetics of loss of (35)S-labeled large and small proteoglycans from explant cultures of tendon, ligament and joint capsule treated with 10mM glucosamine was investigated over a 10-day culture period. The kinetics of loss of (35)S-labeled small proteoglycans and the formation of free [(35)S]sulfate were determined for the last 10 days of a 15-day culture period. The proteoglycan core proteins were analyzed by gel electrophoresis followed by fluorography. The metabolism of tendon, ligament and joint capsule explants exposed to 10mM glucosamine was evaluated by incorporation of [(3)H]serine and [(35)S]sulfate into protein and glycosaminoglycans, respectively.

RESULTS

Glucosamine at 10mM stimulated the loss of small proteoglycans from ligament explant cultures. This was due to the increased loss of both macromolecular and free [(35)S]sulfate to the medium indicating that glucosamine affected the release of small proteoglycans as well as their intracellular degradation. The degradation pattern of small proteoglycans in ligament was not affected by glucosamine. In contrast, glucosamine did not have an effect on the loss of large or small proteoglycans from tendon and joint capsule or large proteoglycans from ligament explant cultures. The metabolism of cells in tendon, ligament and joint capsule was not impaired by the presence of 10mM glucosamine.

CONCLUSIONS

Glucosamine stimulated the loss of small proteoglycans from ligament but did not have an effect on small proteoglycan catabolism in joint capsule and tendon or large proteoglycan catabolism in ligament, tendon or synovial capsule. The consequences of glucosamine therapy at clinically relevant concentrations on proteoglycan catabolism in joint fibrous connective tissues need to be further assessed in an animal model.

Distinguishing aggrecan loss from aggrecan proteolysis in ADAMTS-4 and ADAMTS-5 single and double deficient mice

Aggrecan loss from mouse cartilage is predominantly because of ADAMTS-5 activity; however, the relative contribution of other proteolytic and nonproteolytic processes to this loss is not clear. This is the first study to compare aggrecan loss with aggrecan processing in mice with single and double deletions of ADAMTS-4 and -5 activity (Deltacat). Cartilage explants harvested from single and double ADAMTS-4 and -5 Deltacat mice were cultured with or without interleukin (IL)-1alpha or retinoic acid and analyzed for (i) the kinetics of (35)S-labeled aggrecan loss, (ii) the pattern of (35)S-labeled aggrecan fragments released into the media and retained in the matrix, (iii) the pattern of total aggrecan fragments released into the media and retained in the matrix, and (iv) specific cleavage sites within the interglobular and chondroitin sulfate-2 domains. The loss of radiolabeled aggrecan from ADAMTS-4/-5 Deltacat cartilage was less than that from ADAMTS-4, ADAMTS-5, or wild-type cartilage under nonstimulated conditions. IL-1alpha and retinoic acid stimulated radiolabeled aggrecan loss from wild-type and ADAMTS-4 Deltacat cartilage, but there was little effect on ADAMTS-5 cartilage. Proteolysis of aggrecan contributed most to its loss in wild-type, ADAMTS-4, and ADAMTS-5 Deltacat cartilage explants. The pattern of proteolytic processing of aggrecan in these cultures was consistent with that occurring in cartilage pathologies. Retinoic acid, but not IL-1alpha, stimulated radiolabeled aggrecan loss from ADAMTS-4/-5 Deltacat cartilage explants. Even though there was a 300% increase in aggrecan loss from ADAMTS-4/-5 Deltacat cartilage stimulated with retinoic acid, the loss was not associated with aggrecanase cleavage but with the release of predominantly intact aggrecan consistent with the phenotype of the ADAMTS-4/-5 Deltacat mouse. Our results show that chondrocytes have additional mechanism for the turnover of aggrecan and that when proteolytic mechanisms are blocked by ablation of aggrecanase activity, nonproteolytic mechanisms compensate to maintain cartilage homeostasis.

Blocking aggrecanase cleavage in the aggrecan interglobular domain abrogates cartilage erosion and promotes cartilage repair

Aggrecan loss from cartilage in arthritis is mediated by aggrecanases. Aggrecanases cleave aggrecan preferentially in the chondroitin sulfate-2 (CS-2) domain and secondarily at the E(373) downward arrow(374)A bond in the interglobular domain (IGD). However, IGD cleavage may be more deleterious for cartilage biomechanics because it releases the entire CS-containing portion of aggrecan. Recent studies identifying aggrecanase-2 (ADAMTS-5) as the predominant aggrecanase in mouse cartilage have not distinguished aggrecanolysis in the IGD from aggrecanolysis in the CS-2 domain. We generated aggrecan knockin mice with a mutation that rendered only the IGD resistant to aggrecanases in order to assess the contribution of this specific cleavage to cartilage pathology. The knockin mice were viable and fertile. Aggrecanase cleavage in the aggrecan IGD was not detected in knockin mouse cartilage in situ nor following digestion with ADAMTS-5 or treatment of cartilage explant cultures with IL-1 alpha. Blocking cleavage in the IGD not only diminished aggrecan loss and cartilage erosion in surgically induced osteoarthritis and a model of inflammatory arthritis, but appeared to stimulate cartilage repair following acute inflammation. We conclude that blocking aggrecanolysis in the aggrecan IGD alone protects against cartilage erosion and may potentiate cartilage repair.

ADAMTS-5 Deficiency Does Not Block Aggrecanolysis at Preferred Cleavage Sites in the Chondroitin Sulfate-rich Region of Aggrecan

In the mouse, proteolysis in the aggrecan interglobular domain is driven by ADAMTS-5, and mice deficient in ADAMTS-5 catalytic activity are protected against aggrecan loss and cartilage damage in experimental models of arthritis. Here we show that despite ablation of ADAMTS-5 activity, aggrecanolysis can still occur at two preferred sites in the chondroitin sulfate-rich region. Retinoic acid was more effective than interleukin-1alpha (IL) in promoting cleavage at these sites in ADAMTS-5-deficient cartilage. These results suggest that cleavage at preferred sites in the chondroitin sulfate-rich region is mediated by ADAMTS-4 or an aggrecanase other than ADAMTS-5. Following retinoic acid or IL-1alpha stimulation of cartilage explants, aggrecan fragments in medium and extracts contained SELE(1279) or FREEE(1467) C-terminal sequences. Some SELE(1279) and FREEE(1467) fragments were retained in the cartilage, with intact G1 domains. Other SELE(1279) fragments were released into the medium and co-migrated with the (374)ALGS neoepitope, indicating they were aggrecanase-derived fragments. In contrast none of the FREEE(1467) fragments released into the medium co-migrated with the (374)ALGS neoepitope, suggesting that, despite their size, these fragments were not products of aggrecanase cleavage in the interglobular domain. ADAMTS-5, but not ADAMTS-1, -4, or -9, was up-regulated 8-fold by retinoic acid and 17-fold by IL-1alpha treatment. The data show that whereas ADAMTS-5 is entirely responsible for cleavage in the interglobular domain, cleavage in the chondroitin sulfate-rich region is driven either by ADAMTS-4, which compensates for loss of ADAMTS-5 in this experimental system, or possibly by another aggrecanase. The data show that there are differential aggrecanase activities with preferences for separate regions of the core protein.

Role of aggrecanase 1 in Lyme arthritis

OBJECTIVE

Arthritis is one of the hallmarks of late-stage Lyme disease. Previous studies have shown that infection with Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease, results in degradation of proteoglycans and collagen in cartilage. B burgdorferi do not appear to produce any exported proteases capable of digesting proteoglycans and collagen, but instead, induce and activate host proteases, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which results in cartilage degradation. The role of aggrecanases in Lyme arthritis has not yet been determined. We therefore sought to delineate the contribution of aggrecanases to joint destruction in Lyme arthritis.

METHODS

We examined the expression patterns of aggrecanases 1 and 2 (ADAMTS 4 and 5, respectively) in B burgdorferi-infected primary human chondrocyte cell cultures, in synovial fluid samples from patients with active Lyme arthritis, and in the joints of mice by real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting techniques. Bovine cartilage explants were used to determine the role of aggrecanases in B burgdorferi-induced cartilage degradation.

RESULTS

ADAMTS-4, but not ADAMTS-5, was induced in human chondrocytes infected with B burgdorferi. The active forms of ADAMTS-4 were increased in synovial fluid samples from patients with active Lyme arthritis and were elevated in the joints of mice infected with B burgdorferi. Using cartilage explant models of Lyme arthritis, it appeared that the cleavage of aggrecan was predominantly mediated by "aggrecanases" rather than MMPs.

CONCLUSION

The induction of ADAMTS-4 by B burgdorferi results in the cleavage of aggrecan, which may be an important first step that leads to permanent degradation of cartilage.

Characterisation of proteoglycans and their catabolic products in tendon and explant cultures of tendon

Tendons are collagenous tissues made of mainly Type I collagen and it has been shown that the major proteoglycans of tendons are decorin and versican. Little is still known about the catabolism of these proteoglycans in tendon. Therefore, the aim of the study was to characterise the proteoglycans including their catabolic products present in uncultured bovine tendon and in the explant cultures of tendon. In this study, the proteoglycans were extracted from the tensile region of deep flexor tendon and isolated by ion-exchange chromatography and after deglycosylation analysed by SDS-polyacrylamide electrophoresis, Western blotting and amino-terminal amino acid sequence analysis. Based on amino acid sequence analysis, approximately 80% of the total proteoglycan core proteins in fresh tendon was decorin. Other species that were detected were biglycan and the large proteoglycans versican (splice variants V(0) and/or V(1)) and aggrecan. Approximately 35% of decorin present in the matrix showed carboxyl-terminal proteolytic processing at a number of specific sites. The analysis of small proteoglycans lost to the medium of tendon explants showed the presence of biglycan and decorin with the intact core protein as well as decorin fragments that contained the amino terminus of the core protein. In addition, two core protein peptides of decorin starting at residues K(171) and D(180) were observed in the matrix and one core protein with an amino-terminal sequence commencing at G(189) was isolated from the culture medium. The majority of the large proteoglycans present in the matrix of tendon were degraded and did not contain the G1 globular domain. Furthermore the aggrecan catabolites present in fresh tendon and lost to the medium of explants were derived from aggrecanase cleavage of the core protein at residues E(373)-A(374), E(1480)-G(1481) and E(1771)-A(1772). The analysis of versican catabolites (splice variants V(0) and/or V(1)) also showed evidence of degradation of the core protein by aggrecanase within the GAG-beta subdomain, as well as cleavage by other proteinase(s) within the GAG-alpha and GAG-beta subdomains of versican (variants V(0) and/or V(2)). Degradation products from the amino terminal region of type XII collagen were also detected in the matrix and medium of tendon explants. This work suggests a prominent role for aggrecanase enzymes in the degradation of aggrecan and to a lesser extent versican. Other unidentified proteinases are also involved in the degradation of versican and small leucine-rich proteoglycans.

Proteoglycans and catabolic products of proteoglycans present in ligament

The aim of the present study was to characterize the proteoglycans and catabolic products of proteoglycans present in the tensile region of ligament and explant cultures of this tissue, and to compare these with those observed in the tensile region of tendon. Approx. 90% of the total proteoglycans in fresh ligament was decorin, as estimated by N-terminal amino acid sequence analysis. Other species that were detected were biglycan and the large proteoglycans versican (splice variants V(0) and/or V1 and/or V2) and aggrecan. Approx. 23% of decorin detected in the matrix was degraded. Intact decorin and decorin fragments similar to those observed in the matrix that retained the N-terminus were also observed in the medium of ligament cultures. Intact biglycan core protein was detected in the matrix and medium of ligament cultures, and two fragments originating from the N-terminal region of biglycan were observed in the matrix of cultured ligament. Versican and versican fragments that retained the N-terminus of versican core protein were detected in fresh matrix and medium of tendon cultures. Approx. 42% of versican present in the fresh ligament was degraded. Aggrecan catabolites appearing in the culture medium were derived from aggrecanase cleavage of the core protein. An intact link protein and a degradation product from the N-terminal region of type XII collagen were also detected in the medium of the ligament explant.

Matrix metalloproteinases are not essential for aggrecan turnover during normal skeletal growth and development

The growth plate is a transitional region of cartilage and highly diversified chondrocytes that controls long bone formation. The composition of growth plate cartilage changes markedly from the epiphysis to the metaphysis, notably with the loss of type II collagen, concomitant with an increase in MMP-13; type X collagen; and the C-propeptide of type II collagen. In contrast, the fate of aggrecan in the growth plate is not clear: there is biosynthesis and loss of aggrecan from hypertrophic cartilage, but the mechanism of loss is unknown. All matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) cleave aggrecan between amino acids N341 and F342 in the proteinase-sensitive interglobular domain (IGD), and MMPs in the growth plate are thought to have a role in aggrecanolysis. We have generated mice with aggrecan resistant to proteolysis by MMPs in the IGD and found that the mice develop normally with no skeletal deformities. The mutant mice do not accumulate aggrecan, and there is no significant compensatory proteolysis occurring at alternate sites in the IGD. Our studies reveal that MMP cleavage in this key region is not a predominant mechanism for removing aggrecan from growth plate cartilage.

Mature bovine articular cartilage contains abundant aggrecan that is C-terminally truncated at Ala719-Ala720, a site which is readily cleaved by m-calpain

Extracts of normal mature articular cartilage contain aggrecan molecules which bear the G1 domain (the N-terminal globular domain of aggrecan) and are C-terminally truncated by proteolysis at a number of sites. A proportion of these molecules are generated by an aggrecanase and/or matrix-metalloproteinase-mediated cleavage in the IGD (interglobular domain between the G1 and G2 domains of aggrecan). However, the proteinase(s) responsible for formation of the majority of the larger G1-G2 and glycosaminoglycan-bearing truncated species is (are) unknown. N-terminal sequencing of aggrecan core fragments generated by m-calpain digestion of bovine aggrecan has identified four novel cleavage sites: one within the CS (chondroitin sulphate)-1 domain (at one or more of the bonds Ser1229-Val1230, Ser1249-Val1250, Ser1287-Val1288, Gly1307-Val1308 and Ser1346-Val1347), two within the IGD (at bonds Ala474-Ala475 and Gly365-Gly366) and one within the KS (keratan sulphate) domain (at Ala719-Ala720). A new monoclonal antibody (SK-28) to the C-terminal neoepitope at M710VTQVGPGVA719 showed that aggrecan products generated by this cleavage are present in high abundance in mature bovine articular cartilage extracts. We conclude that m-calpain, or an unidentified proteinase with the capacity to cleave at the same site, is active during aggrecan biosynthesis/secretion by mature chondrocytes or in the matrix of mature bovine articular cartilage in vivo.

The use of debrided human articular cartilage for autologous chondrocyte implantation: maintenance of chondrocyte differentiation and proliferation in type I collagen gels

Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) is the most promising surgical treatment for large full thickness knee joint articular cartilage (AC) defects where cells from healthy non-weight bearing area AC are multiplied in vitro and implanted into such defects. In the routine surgical procedure for symptomatic knee full thickness AC defects, damaged AC surrounding the edge and the base of such defects is usually debrided and discarded. The purpose of this study was to examine if chondrocytes from this 'debrided' AC can proliferate, synthesize a cartilage specific matrix and thus can be used for ACI.

METHODS

Biopsies were retrieved from 12 patients (debrided articular cartilage: DAC, aged 35-61) and from two autopsies (normal articular cartilage: NAC, aged 21 and 25). Chondrocytes were isolated, seeded at low density in type I collagen gels and as monolayer cultures for 4 weeks without passage.

RESULTS

After 4 weeks cultures in type I collagen gels, cell proliferation from DAC (18.34 +/- 1.95 fold) was similar to cells from NAC (11.24 +/- 1.02 fold). Syntheses of proteoglycan and collagen in DAC were also similar to NAC. Newly synthesized matrices in gel cultures consisted predominantly of type II collagen as shown by immuno-labelling and SDS-PAGE followed by fluorography. Chondrocytes from 'debrided human AC' cultured at low density in type I collagen gels may be used for the ACI procedure as they provide sufficient viable cell numbers for ACI and maintain their chondrocyte phenotype as they synthesize a cartilage-like matrix.

Effects of long-term exposure to glucosamine and mannosamine on aggrecan degradation in articular cartilage

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of long-term exposure to glucosamine or mannosamine on the catabolism of aggrecan by explant cultures of bovine articular cartilage maintained in the presence of retinoic acid.

DESIGN

The kinetics of loss of 35S-labeled and total aggrecan from explant cultures of bovine articular cartilage maintained in the presence of 1 micro M retinoic acid and exposed to varying concentrations of glucosamine or mannosamine was investigated over a 9-day culture period. In other experiments, the reversibility of the inhibition of aggrecan catabolism by glucosamine or mannosamine was investigated in cultures exposed to these amino sugars for the first 5 days of a 15-day culture period. The metabolism of chondrocytes exposed to these amino sugars was evaluated by measurement of lactate production or 3H-serine and 35S-sulfate incorporation into protein and glycosaminoglycans, respectively. The direct effect of these amino sugars on soluble aggrecanase activity was determined from immunoblots of aggrecan digests.

RESULTS

Glucosamine at 5mM concentration and mannosamine at 2mM concentration inhibited degradation of radiolabeled and chemical levels of aggrecan. At concentrations of up to 10mM amino sugars, the metabolism of chondrocytes was not impaired, as determined by lactate production, protein synthesis and the incorporation of 35S-sulfate into proteoglycans. These amino sugars did not inhibit soluble aggrecanase activity. The exposure of articular cartilage explants to 5mM glucosamine or mannosamine for 5 days in culture in the presence or absence of retinoic acid did not provide long-term suppression of stimulated aggrecan loss.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that continuous presence of amino sugars is required to protect cartilage from stimulated loss of aggrecan.

Selective inhibition of ADAMTS-1, -4 and -5 by catechin gallate esters

Three mammalian ADAMTS enzymes, ADAMTS-1, -4 and -5, are known to cleave aggrecan at certain glutamyl bonds and are considered to be largely responsible for cartilage aggrecan catabolism observed during the development of arthritis. We have previously reported that certain catechins, polyphenolic compounds found in highest concentration in green tea (Camellia sinensis), are capable of inhibiting cartilage aggrecan breakdown in an in vitro model of cartilage degradation. We have now cloned and expressed recombinant human ADAMTS-1, -4 and -5 and report here that the catechin gallate esters found in green tea potently inhibit the aggrecan-degrading activity of these enzymes, with submicromolar IC50 values. Moreover, the concentration needed for total inhibition of these members of the ADAMTS group is approximately two orders of magnitude lower than that which is needed to partially inhibit collagenase or ADAM-10 activity. Catechin gallate esters therefore provide selective inhibition of certain members of the ADAMTS group of enzymes and could constitute an important nutritional aid in the prevention of arthritis as well as being part of an effective therapy in the treatment of joint disease and other pathologies involving the action of these enzymes.

Distribution of newly synthesized aggrecan in explant cultures of bovine cartilage treated with retinoic acid

This paper describes temporal changes in the metabolism and distribution of newly synthesized aggrecan and the organization of the extracellular matrix when explant cultures of articular cartilage maintained in the presence of fetal calf serum were exposed to retinoic acid for varying periods of time. Explant cultures of articular cartilage were incubated with radiolabeled sulfate prior to exposure to retinoic acid. The radiolabeled and chemical aggrecan present in the tissue and appearing in the culture medium was studied kinetically. Changes in the localization of radiolabeled aggrecan within the extracellular matrix were monitored by autoradiography in relation to type VI collagen distribution in the extracellular matrix. In control cultures where tissue levels of aggrecan remain constant the newly synthesized aggrecan remained closely associated with the territorial matrix surrounding the chondrocytes. Exposure of cultures to retinoic acid for the duration of the experiment, resulted in the extensive loss of aggrecan from the tissue and the redistribution of the remaining radiolabeled aggrecan from the chondron and territorial matrix into the inter-territorial matrix. These changes preceded alterations in the organization of type VI collagen in the extracellular matrix that involved the remodeling of the chondron and the appearance of type VI collagen in the inter-territorial matrix; there was also evidence of chondrocyte proliferation and clustering. In cartilage explant cultures exposed to retinoic acid for 24 h there was no loss of aggrecan from the matrix but there was an extensive redistribution of the radiolabeled aggrecan into the inter-territorial matrix. This work shows that maintenance of the structure and organization of the extracellular matrix that comprises the chondron and pericellular microenvironment of chondrocytes in articular cartilage is important for the regulation of the distribution of newly synthesized aggrecan monomers within the tissue.

Inhibition of ADAM-TS4 and ADAM-TS5 prevents aggrecan degradation in osteoarthritic cartilage

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disorder characterized by breakdown of articular cartilage. Degradation of aggrecan, which together with type II collagen provides cartilage with its unique characteristics of compressibility and elasticity, is an early and sustained feature of osteoarthritis. The present work was set up to identify the enzyme(s) responsible for aggrecan breakdown in osteoarthritis. We found that the two cartilage aggrecanases, ADAM-TS4 and ADAM-TS5, are present in osteoarthritic cartilage and that they are responsible for aggrecan degradation without the participation of matrix metalloproteinases. This is based on 1) neoepitopes found on aggrecan fragments in osteoarthritis (OA) cartilage explants in vitro, 2) aggrecan fragments detected in synovial fluid of OA patients, 3) the observation that an aggrecanase inhibitor, BB-16, blocked aggrecan degradation in OA cartilage in vitro, whereas the matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor XS309 did not, and 4) the presence of mRNA and protein for ADAM-TS4 and ADAM-TS5 in OA cartilage. These results suggest that ADAM-TS4 and ADAM-TS5 represent a potential target for the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Matrix metalloproteinases are involved in C-terminal and interglobular domain processing of cartilage aggrecan in late stage cartilage degradation

Monoclonal antibody (MAb) technology was used to examine aggrecan metabolites and the role of aggrecanases and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in proteolysis of the interglobular domain (IGD) and C-terminus of aggrecan. An in vitro model of progressive cartilage degradation characterized by early proteoglycan loss and late stage collagen catabolism was evaluated in conjunction with a broad-spectrum inhibitor of MMPs. We have for the first time demonstrated that IGD cleavage by MMPs occurs during this late stage cartilage degeneration, both as a primary event in association with glycosaminoglycan (GAG) release from the tissue and secondarily in trimming of aggrecanase-generated G1 metabolites. Additionally, we have shown that MMPs were responsible for C-terminal catabolism of aggrecan and generation of chondroitin sulfate (CS) deficient aggrecan monomers and that this aggrecan truncation occurred prior to detectable IGD cleavage by MMPs. The onset of this later stage MMP activity was also evident by the generation of MMP-specific link protein catabolites in this model culture system. Recombinant MMP-1, -3 and -13 were all capable of C-terminally truncating aggrecan with at least two cleavage sites N-terminal to the CS attachment domains of aggrecan. Through analysis of aggrecan metabolites in pathological synovial fluids from human, canine and equine sources, we have demonstrated the presence of aggrecan catabolites that appear to have resulted from similar C-terminal processing of aggrecan as that induced in our in vitro culture systems. Finally, by developing a new MAb recognizing a linear epitope in the IGD of aggrecan, we have identified two novel aggrecan metabolites generated by an as yet unidentified proteolytic event. Collectively, these results suggest that C-terminal processing of aggrecan by MMPs may contribute to the depletion of cartilage GAG that leads to loss of tissue function in aging and disease. Furthermore, analysis of aggrecan metabolites resulting from both C-terminal and IGD cleavage by MMPs may prove useful in monitoring different stages in the progression of cartilage degeneration.

Cathepsin D cleaves aggrecan at unique sites within the interglobular domain and chondroitin sulfate attachment regions that are also cleaved when cartilage is maintained at acid pH

Bovine aggrecan was digested with bovine cathepsin D at pH 5.2 under conditions of partial digestion and the resulting aggrecan core protein fragments were separated by electrophoresis on gradient polyacrylamide gels. The fragments were characterized by their reactivity to specific antibodies and by N-terminal amino acid sequencing. It was also demonstrated that cathepsin D cleaved bovine aggrecan at five sites within the core protein, between residues Phe(342)-Phe(343) in the interglobular domain, Leu(1462)-Val(1463) between the chondroitin sulfate attachment regions 1 and 2 and Leu(1654)-Val(1655), Phe(1754)-Val(1755) and Leu(1854)-Ile(1855) that are located within the chondroitin sulfate attachment region 2 of the core protein. The time course of digestion showed that there was a continued degradation of aggrecan and there was no preferential cleavage of the core protein at any one site. It was shown that cathepsin D digested aggrecan over the pH range 5.2-6.5 resulting in the same products. When bovine cartilage was maintained in explant culture at pH 5.2 there was a rapid loss of both radiolabeled and chemical pools of sulfated glycosaminoglycans into the culture medium and this loss was inhibited by the inclusion in the medium of the aspartic proteinase inhibitor, pepstatin A. The aggrecan core protein fragments appearing in the medium of cultures maintained at pH 5.2 were characterized and it was shown that the fragments had N-terminal sequences starting at Phe(343), Ile(1855), and Val(1755) or Val(1463). This work demonstrates that cathepsin D present within the extracellular matrix of articular cartilage has the potential to contribute to the proteolytic processing of the core protein of aggrecan in this tissue.

Analysis of aggrecan in human knee cartilage and synovial fluid indicates that aggrecanase (ADAMTS) activity is responsible for the catabolic turnover and loss of whole aggrecan whereas other protease activity is required for C-terminal processing in vivo

Studies of aggrecan proteolysis in human joints have implicated both the aggrecanase [ADAMTS, a disintegrin-like and metalloprotease (reprolysin-type) with thrombospondin type 1 motif] and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) families. We have analysed the aggrecan core protein species present in vivo in both articular cartilage and synovial fluids from normal, acutely injured and osteoarthritic joints. Normal cartilage contains at least seven major G1 domain (the N-terminal globular domain of aggrecan)-bearing species, of which three (full-length core, G1-NITEGE(373) and G1-VDIPEN(341)) have been identified. The C-terminals of the others are unknown but digestion of fetal human aggrecan with MMP-3 and crude aggrecanase suggests that they are products of MMP-like activity in vivo. Normal synovial fluids contain at least 10 species, of which nine result from ADAMTS-dependent cleavage, and this cleavage occurs at all of the five known aggrecanase sites. Aggrecan fragments in the cartilage and synovial fluids of acutely injured joints are generally similar to normal, but all contain a markedly increased ratio of G1-NITEGE to G1-VDIPEN. Aggrecan from the cartilage of late-stage osteoarthritis patients is remarkably similar to normal, whereas the synovial fluid aggrecan is more fragmented than that from normal or injured knees. The analyses suggest that the role of the ADAMTS and these MMP-like activities in human cartilage are distinctly different. Excessive ADAMTS activity in vivo is destructive to cartilage matrix, since the bulk of the glycosaminoglycan (GAG)-bearing products are released from the tissue into the synovial fluid following cleavage of the Glu(373)-Ala(374) bond. In contrast, the MMP-like activity appears to be essentially non-destructive, since much of the GAG-bearing product is retained in the tissue following cleavages that are in the more C-terminal regions of the molecule.

The role of ADAM-TS4 (aggrecanase-1) and ADAM-TS5 (aggrecanase-2) in a model of cartilage degradation

INTRODUCTION

Cleavage of aggrecan between residues Glu(373)-Ala(374), which is believed to be a key event in aggrecan destruction in arthritic diseases, has been attributed to an enzymatic activity, aggrecanase. Two cartilage aggrecanases have been identified, aggrecanase-1 (ADAM-TS4) and aggrecanase-2 (ADAM-TS5) and both enzymes have been shown very efficiently to cleave soluble aggrecan at the Glu(373)-Ala(374) site.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether ADAM-TS4 and/or ADAM-TS5 are the aggrecanases responsible for aggrecan catabolism following interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) treatment of bovine articular cartilage.

RESULTS

(1) IL-1- and TNF-stimulated release of aggrecan was associated with cleavage of aggrecan within the C-terminus at the ADAM-TS4 and ADAM-TS5-sensitive sites, Glu(1480)-Gly(1481), Glu(1667)-Gly(1668), and Glu(1871)-Leu(1872). (2) The order of cleavage following IL-1 stimulation of cartilage explants was the same as when soluble aggrecan is digested with recombinant human ADAM-TS4 and ADAM-TS5. (3) Both constitutive and stimulated cleavage of aggrecan at the ADAM-TS4 and ADAM-TS5-sensitive sites in cartilage was blocked by a general metalloproteinase inhibitor but not by a MMP-specific inhibitor, and this inhibition correlated with inhibition of aggrecan release from cartilage. (4) PCR and Western blot analysis indicated that both ADAM-TS proteases are expressed in cartilage explants; ADAM-TS5 is constitutively expressed whereas ADAM-TS4 is induced following IL-1 and TNF treatment. (5) Immunodepletion of both ADAM-TS4 and ADAM-TS5 from bovine articular cartilage cultures following IL-1 stimulation resulted in a 90% reduction of aggrecanase activity in the culture medium.

Expression and activity of ADAMTS-5 in synovium

ADAMTS proteinases, belonging to the adamalysin subfamily of metalloproteinases, have been implicated in a variety of cellular events such as morphogenesis, cell migration, angiogenesis, ovulation and extracellular matrix breakdown. Aggrecanase-1 (ADAMTS-4) and aggrecanase-2 (ADAMTS-5) have been identified in cartilage and are largely responsible for cartilage aggrecan breakdown. We have shown previously that synovium, the membrane lining diarthrodial joints, generates soluble aggrecanase activity. We report here the expression, localization and activity of ADAMTS-5 from human arthritic and bovine synovium. ADAMTS-5 was expressed constitutively in synovium with little or no transcriptional regulation by recombinant human interleukin-1 alpha or all-trans-retinoate, factors previously shown to upregulate aggrecanase activity in cartilage. Aggrecanase activity generated by synovium in vitro and recombinant ADAMTS-5 cleaved aggrecan extensively, resulting in aggrecan fragments similar to those generated by chondrocyte-derived aggrecanases, and the activity was inhibited by heparin. ADAMTS-5 was immunolocalized in human arthritic synovium, where staining was mostly pericellular, particularly in the synovial lining and around blood vessels; some matrix staining was also seen. The possibility that synovium-derived ADAMTS-5 may play a role in cartilage aggrecan breakdown is discussed.

Generation and novel distribution of matrix metalloproteinase-derived aggrecan fragments in porcine cartilage explants

We have studied aggrecan catabolism mediated by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in a porcine cartilage culture system. Using antibodies specific for DIPEN(341) and (342)FFGVG neoepitopes, we have detected MMP-derived fragments in conditioned medium and cultured cartilage, by radioimmunoassay, Western blotting, and immunolocalization. Radioimmunoassay revealed that the amount (pmol of epitope/mg of total glycosaminoglycan) of (342)FFGVG epitope released from cartilage remained constant over a 5-day culture period and was not increased by IL-1alpha or retinoate. However, the proportion (pmol of epitope/mg of released glycosaminoglycan) of (342)FFGVG epitope released was decreased upon stimulation, consistent with the involvement of a non-MMP proteinase, such as aggrecanase. The data suggest that in vitro MMPs may be involved in the base-line catabolism of aggrecan. Immunolocalization experiments showed that DIPEN(341) and ITEGE(373) epitopes were increased by treatment with IL-1alpha and retinoate. Confocal microscopy revealed that ITEGE(373) epitope was largely intracellular but with matrix staining in the superficial zone, whereas DIPEN(341) epitope was cell-associated and widely distributed in the matrix. Surprisingly, the majority of (342)FFGVG epitope, determined by radioimmunoassay and Western blotting, was retained in the tissue despite the absence of a G1 domain anchor. Interleukin-1alpha stimulation caused a marked increase in tissue DIPEN(341) and (342)FFGVG epitope, and the (342)FFGVG fragments retained in the tissue were larger than those released into the medium. Active porcine aggrecanase was unable to cleave (342)FFGVG fragments at the downward arrowGlu(373) downward arrowAla(374) bond but cleaved intact aggrecan at this site, suggesting that (342)FFGVG fragments are not substrates for aggrecanase. The apparent retention of large (342)FFGVG fragments within cartilage, and their resistance to N-terminal cleavage by aggrecanase suggests that (342)FF6V6 fragments may have a role in cartilage homeostasis.

Mutations in the interglobular domain of aggrecan alter matrix metalloproteinase and aggrecanase cleavage patterns. Evidence that matrix metalloproteinase cleavage interferes with aggrecanase activity

We have expressed G1-G2 mutants with amino acid changes at the DIPEN(341) downward arrow(342)FFGVG and ITEGE(373) downward arrow(374)ARGSV cleavage sites, in order to investigate the relationship between matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and aggrecanase activities in the interglobular domain (IGD) of aggrecan. The mutation DIPEN(341) to DIGSA(341) partially blocked cleavage by MMP-13 and MMP-8 at the MMP site, while the mutation (342)FFGVG to (342)GTRVG completely blocked cleavage at this site by MMP-1, -2, -3, -7, -8, -9, -13, -14. Each of the MMP cleavage site mutants, including a four-amino acid deletion mutant lacking residues ENFF(343), were efficiently cleaved by aggrecanase, suggesting that the primary sequence at the MMP site had no effect on aggrecanase activity in the IGD. The mutation (374)ARGSV to (374)NVYSV completely blocked cleavage at the aggrecanase site by aggrecanase, MMP-8 and atrolysin C but had no effect on the ability of MMP-8 and MMP-13 to cleave at the Asn(341) downward arrowPhe bond. Susceptibility to atrolysin C cleavage at the MMP site was conferred in the DIGSA(341) mutant but absent in the wild-type, (342)GTRVG, (374)NVYSV, and deletion mutants. To further explore the relationship between MMP and aggrecanase activities, sequential digest experiments were done in which MMP degradation products were subsequently digested with aggrecanase and vice versa. Aggrecanase-derived G1 domains with ITEGE(373) C termini were viable substrates for MMPs; however, MMP-derived G2 fragments were resistant to cleavage by aggrecanase. A 10-mer peptide FVDIPENFFG, which is a substrate analogue for the MMP cleavage site, inhibited aggrecanase cleavage at the Glu(373) downward arrowAla bond. This study demonstrates that MMPs and aggrecanase have unique substrate recognition in the IGD of aggrecan and suggests that sequences at the C terminus of the DIPEN(341) G1 domain may be important for regulating aggrecanase cleavage.

The intermediates of aggrecanase-dependent cleavage of aggrecan in rat chondrosarcoma cells treated with interleukin-1

We have examined the abundance and structure of intermediates in the chondrocyte-mediated degradation of aggrecan by aggrecanase(s). Degradation products were identified by Western-blot analysis with antibodies to cleavage-site neoepitopes and to peptides within the globular domains. Rat chondrosarcoma tumour contained full-length aggrecan and all of the individual peptides expected from single independent cleavages at each of the four aggrecanase sites in the chondroitin sulphate (CS) domain. Kinetic analysis of the products present in rat chondrosarcoma cell cultures treated with interleukin-1b showed that the first aggrecanase-mediated cleavages occurred at the four sites within the CS attachment region to generate two stable intermediates, Val(1)-Glu(1459) and Val(1)-Glu(1274). These species were subsequently cleaved at the Glu(373) site in the interglobular domain to form the terminal products, Val(1)-Glu(373), Ala(374)-Glu(1274) and Ala(374)-Glu(1459). It therefore appears that the aggrecanase-mediated processing of native aggrecan by chondrocytes in situ is initiated within the CS-attachment region and completed by cleavage within the interglobular domain. Since it has been shown that digestion of aggrecan monomer in solution with recombinant ADAMTS-4 [Tortorella, Pratta, Liu, Austin, Ross, Abbaszade, Burn and Arner (2000) Sites of aggrecan cleavage by recombinant human aggrecanase-1 (ADAMTS-4). J. Biol. Chem. 275, 18566-18573] exhibits similar kinetics, it appears that preferential proteinase cleavage in the CS-rich region is determined by properties inherent in the aggrecan monomer itself, such as preferred peptide sequences for enzyme binding or enhanced accessibility to the core protein at these sites.

Calcium pentosan polysulfate inhibits the catabolism of aggrecan in articular cartilage explant cultures

OBJECTIVE

The catabolism of aggrecan and loss of aggrecan fragments from articular cartilage is a key event in the pathogenesis of arthritic diseases such as osteoarthritis. The catabolism of aggrecan is mediated by the specific proteolytic activity termed aggrecanase. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the chondroprotective agent calcium pentosan polysulfate (CaPPS) on the aggrecanase-mediated catabolism of aggrecan.

METHODS

The catabolism of 35S-labeled aggrecan and loss of tissue glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) were investigated using bovine articular cartilage explant cultures maintained in medium containing varying concentrations of CaPPS (1-100 microg/ml) in the presence or absence of 10(-6)M retinoic acid or 7 ng/ml recombinant human interleukin-1alpha (rHuIL-1alpha). In addition, the effect of CaPPS on the degradation of aggrecan monomers by aggrecanase activity present in conditioned medium from joint capsule explant cultures was investigated.

RESULTS

CaPPS inhibited the catabolism of 35S-labeled aggrecan in a dose-dependent manner, particularly when retinoic acid or rHuIL-1alpha was used to stimulate aggrecan catabolism. These effects were reflected in the tissue levels of GAG remaining in these cultures at the end of the experiment. CaPPS inhibited the degradation of aggrecan monomers by soluble aggrecanase activity.

CONCLUSION

CaPPS inhibits the catabolism of aggrecan by articular cartilage in a dose-dependent manner, particularly when the processes responsible for aggrecan loss are stimulated. This effect occurs, at least in part, through direct inhibition of aggrecanase activity. CaPPS did not adversely affect overall chondrocyte metabolism, as shown by the incorporation of 35S-sulfate and 3H-leucine into macromolecules and by lactate production in cartilage explant cultures.

Bovine joint capsule and fibroblasts derived from joint capsule express aggrecanase activity

Bovine joint capsule was maintained in explant culture in the presence of bovine aggrecan monomer and it was shown that the aggrecan monomer was degraded. Amino-terminal sequence analysis of the resulting aggrecan core protein fragments revealed that the core protein was cleaved at five specific sites attributed to glutamyl endopeptidases referred to as aggrecanase activity. Fibroblast cultures were established from explant cultures of joint capsule and when these cells were exposed to aggrecan, cleavage of the core protein of aggrecan at the aggrecanase sites was observed. Inclusion of either retinoic acid or interleukin-1alpha in medium of either joint capsule explant cultures or fibroblast cultures did not increase the rate of cleavage of exogenous aggrecan present in the culture medium. When aggrecan monomer was incubated with conditioned medium from explant cultures of joint capsule maintained in medium, degradation could be detected after 10 min. After a 6-h incubation period the same fragments of aggrecan core protein were observed as those for tissue or cells incubated directly with aggrecan monomer. RT-PCR analysis of mRNA extracted from joint capsule fibroblasts showed that these cells express both aggrecanase-1 and -2 [ADAMTS-2 (Tang) and ADAMTS-5].

Sites of aggrecan cleavage by recombinant human aggrecanase-1 (ADAMTS-4)

Aggrecan, the major proteoglycan of cartilage that provides its mechanical properties of compressibility and elasticity, is one of the first matrix components to undergo measurable loss in arthritic diseases. Two major sites of proteolytic cleavage have been identified within the interglobular domain (IGD) of the aggrecan core protein, one between amino acids Asn(341)-Phe(342) which is cleaved by matrix metalloproteinases and the other between Glu(373)-Ala(374) that is attributed to aggrecanase. Although several potential aggrecanase-sensitive sites had been identified within the COOH terminus of aggrecan, demonstration that aggrecanase cleaved at these sites awaited isolation and purification of this protease. We have recently cloned human aggrecanase-1 (ADAMTS-4) (Tortorella, M. D., Burn, T. C., Pratta, M. A., Abbaszade, I., Hollis, J. M., Liu, R., Rosenfeld, S. A., Copeland, R. A., Decicco, C. P., Wynn, R., Rockwell, A., Yang, F., Duke, J. L., Solomon, K., George, H., Bruckner, R., Nagase, H., Itoh, Y., Ellis, D. M., Ross, H., Wiswall, B. H., Murphy, K., Hillman, M. C., Jr., Hollis, G. F., Newton, R. C., Magolda, R. L., Trzaskos, J. M., and Arner, E. C. (1999) Science 284, 1664-1666) and herein demonstrate that in addition to cleavage at the Glu(373)-Ala(374) bond, this protease cleaves at four sites within the chondroitin-sulfate rich region of the aggrecan core protein, between G2 and G3 globular domains. Importantly, we show that this cleavage occurs more efficiently than cleavage within the IGD at the Glu(373)-Ala(374) bond. Cleavage occurred preferentially at the KEEE(1667-1668)GLGS bond to produce both a 140-kDa COOH-terminal fragment and a 375-kDa fragment that retains an intact G1. Cleavage also occurred at the GELE(1480-1481)GRGT bond to produce a 55-kDa COOH-terminal fragment and a G1-containing fragment of 320 kDa. Cleavage of this 320-kDa fragment within the IGD at the Glu(373)-Ala(374) bond then occurred to release the 250-kDa BC-3-reactive fragment from the G1 domain. The 140-kDa GLGS-reactive fragment resulting from the preferential cleavage was further processed at two additional cleavage sites, at TAQE(1771)-(1772)AGEG and at VSQE(1871-1872)LGQR resulting in the formation of a 98-kDa fragment with an intact G3 domain and two small fragments of approximately 20 kDa. These data elucidate the sites and efficiency of cleavage during aggrecan degradation by aggrecanase and suggest potential tools for monitoring aggrecan cleavage in arthritis.

Mannosamine inhibits aggrecanase-mediated changes in the physical properties and biochemical composition of articular cartilage

The enzymatic processes underlying the degradation of aggrecan in cartilage and the corresponding changes in the biomechanical properties of the tissue are an important part of the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis. Recent studies have demonstrated that the hexosamines glucosamine (GlcN) and mannosamine (ManN) can inhibit aggrecanase-mediated cleavage of aggrecan in IL-1-treated cartilage cultures. The term aggrecanase describes two or more members of the ADAMTS family of metalloproteinases whose glutamyl endopeptidase activity is known to be responsible for much of the aggrecan degradation seen in human arthritides. In this study we examined the effect of ManN and GlcN on aggrecanase-mediated degradation of aggrecan induced by IL-1alpha and the corresponding tissue mechanical properties in newborn bovine articular cartilage. After 6 days of culture in 10 ng/ml IL-1 plus ManN, mechanical testing of explants in confined compression demonstrated that ManN inhibited the IL-1alpha-induced degradation in tissue equilibrium modulus, dynamic stiffness, streaming potential, and hydraulic permeability, in a dose-dependent fashion, with peak inhibition ( approximately 75-100% inhibition) reached by a concentration of 1.35 mM. Aggrecan from explants cultured in IL-1 was found by Western analysis to be almost entirely processed down to the G1-NITEGE(373) end product. Addition of ManN or GlcN was found to produce 75-90% inhibition of this cleavage, but the proportion of aggrecan remaining in the tissue which was cleaved at aggrecanase sites in the chondroitin sulfate (CS)-rich region (Glu(1501) and Glu(1687)) was higher than with IL-1 alone. This result suggests that the preservation of mechanical properties by hexosamines in explants is primarily due to inhibition of cleavage at the Glu(373) site in the interglobular domain. While the precise mechanism by which hexosamines function in this system is unclear, the present analysis suggests that the mechanical properties examined may be predominantly a function of electrostatic repulsion due to the charged CS chains in the tightly packed repetitive sequences of the CS-1 region.

Coincubation of bovine synovial or capsular tissue with cartilage generates a soluble "Aggrecanase" activity

The culture of bovine synovial or capsular tissue generated proteoglycan-degrading activity. When these tissues were incubated with living or dead bovine articular cartilage significantly more proteoglycan-degrading activity was revealed. The activity was present in a soluble form and required protein synthesis for its generation. The conditioned medium did not contain matrixin activity, although experiments with proteinase inhibitors suggested that the activity was due to a metalloproteinase. Western blotting of the aggrecan fragments suggested cleavage of aggrecan within the interglobular domain at the "aggrecanase" site, but not at the major matrixin site. N-terminal sequencing confirmed cleavage of aggrecan at a number of glutamyl bonds, including the aggrecanase site in the interglobular domain. We conclude that cultured synovial or capsular tissue produces soluble aggrecanase and an enzyme which releases aggrecanase from cartilage, possibly by cleavage of a chondrocyte membrane-bound form of aggrecanase.