Influence of proteoglycan contents and of tissue hydration on the frictional characteristics of articular cartilage

In this work, the hypothesis that water content and substances present on the articular surface play an important role in lubrication through the formation of a layer with a high content of water on the articular surface is analysed. The hydrophilic properties of proteoglycans exposed at the articular surface and hydration of tissue are the main responsible factors for the formation of this layer. The role of the articular surface in the frictional characteristics of articular cartilage was examined using specimens (femoral condyles of pigs) with intact and wiped surfaces tested in intermittent friction tests. Results indicated that the intact condition presented low friction in comparison with the wiped condition. The measured water loss of the articular cartilage after sliding and loading indicated a gradual decrease in the water content as the time evolved, and rehydration was observed after the submersion of unloaded specimens in the saline bath solution. Micrographic analyses indicated the presence of a layer covering the articular surface, and histological analyses indicated the presence of proteoglycans in this superficial layer. The hydration of the cartilage surface layer and proteoglycan in this layer influence lubrication.