Comparison of the protective effect of the upper zone of the growth plate and unique cartilage matrix-associated protein with hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids on an experimental rat osteoarthritis model

Objectives

This study sought to compare the protective effect of the upper zone of the growth plate and unique cartilage matrix-associated protein (UCMA) with hyaluronic acid (HA) and corticosteroids (CS) in a rat model of osteoarthritis (OA).

Materials and methods

In the experimental animal study, 40 adult male rats were randomly assigned into five groups: control, monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) + vehicle (MIA+V), MIA+HA, MIA+CS, and MIA+UCMA. The OA model was induced by an intra-articular MIA injection to the right knee, and intra-articular injections into the right knee were performed on the treatment groups seven times every three days for 21 days. The knee joints were taken for histopathology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) analyses after the rats were sacrificed. All sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin, safranin O and fast green FCF, and toluidine blue, and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) expressions were analyzed with IHC. The Mankin scoring was utilized to determine the histopathological changes in the joint tissues.

Results

Mankin score was significantly higher in the MIA group compared to the control group. Histopathologically, in the UCMA-, HA-, and CS-treated groups, degenerations in the articular cartilage were milder than in the MIA+V group. Mankin score was found to be decreased significantly in the UCMA-, HA-, and CS-treated groups compared to the MIA group. Furthermore, IHC analyses revealed that NF-κB and BMP-2 expressions elevated in the MIA-induced OA model, while they were downregulated after UCMA, HA, and CS treatments.

Conclusion

Our data revealed that UCMA could be used as a potential protective molecule in the prevention and treatment of OA. Furthermore, the protective effect of UCMA was similar to HA and CS, and its possible beneficial roles against OA may be linked to the reduced BMP-2 and NF-κB levels. Further experimental research would make significant contributions to a better understanding of the therapeutic effect of UCMA on degenerative cartilage tissues.

Polyherbal formulation PL02 alleviates pain, inflammation, and subchondral bone deterioration in an osteoarthritis rodent model

Introduction

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating disease with significant personal and socioeconomic burdens worldwide.

Methods

To address this, we developed a multitargeted formulation called PL02, which includes standardized extracts of Rosa canina L, Hippophae rhamnoides, and collagen peptide. We tested the pharmacological efficacy of PL02 in a rodent model of OA induced by Monosodium iodoacetate (MIA).

Results

Our results demonstrate that oral administration of PL02 has antioxidant effects by down-regulating NOS, reduces pain-related behavior, and mitigates inflammation by inhibiting IL-1b and TNF-α production, as well as downregulating CGRP1 and COX-II. PL02 also exhibits anti-catabolic and chondroprotective activity by significantly downregulating MMP13 and upregulating BCL2. Additionally, PL02 demonstrates chondrogenic activity by significantly upregulating SOX-9 (a master regulator of chondrogenesis), Coll-I, and aggrecan, which are major components of articular cartilage. Furthermore, PL02 prevents microarchitectural deterioration of subchondral bone.

Conclusion

Overall, PL02 is an orally active, multi-targeted therapy that not only alleviates pain and inflammation but also effectively halts cartilage and subchondral bone deterioration. It represents a safe and promising candidate for the treatment and management of OA.

Boswellia serrata Extracts Ameliorates Symptom of Irregularities in Articular Cartilage through Inhibition of Matrix Metalloproteinases Activation and Apoptosis in Monosodium-Iodoacetate-Induced Osteoarthritic Rat Models

The research examined the effects of Boswellia serrata extracts (BSE) on a rat model of osteoarthritis induced by monosodium iodoacetate (MIA). The severity and progression of MIA-induced osteoarthritis were assessed using microcomputed tomography imaging. Additionally, the study investigated the impact of BSE various the biomarkers associated with osteoarthritis, including anabolic and catabolic factors, pro-inflammatory factors, and apoptosis factors. The evaluation methods employed included western blot, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis in osteoarthritic rats. Supplementing osteoarthritic rats with BSE reduced tissue injury, cartilage destruction, and decreased in MIA-induced roughness on the articular cartilage surface. MIA-treated rats exhibited increased expressions of phosphorylation of Smad3, MMPs, p-IκB, p-NF-κB, and pro-inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and COX-2), which were mitigated by BSE supplementation. Furthermore, protein expressions related to apoptosis pathways were significantly reduced in MIA-induced rats supplemented with BSE. These findings suggested that BSE ingestion may enhance the inflammatory response, decrease JNK-dependent MMPs activation, and alleviate caspase-3-dependent apoptosis in MIA-induced osteoarthritic rat models. Consequently, BSE exhibits potential as a therapeutic agent for treating osteoarthritis.

Therapeutic Effect of Enzymatically Hydrolyzed Cervi Cornu Collagen NP-2007 and Potential for Application in Osteoarthritis Treatment

Cervi cornu extracts have been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various disorders, including osteoporosis. However, since it is not easy to separate the active ingredients, limited research has been conducted on their functional properties. In this study, we extracted the low-molecular-weight (843 Da) collagen NP-2007 from cervi cornu by enzyme hydrolyzation to enhance absorption and evaluated the therapeutic effect in monosodium iodoacetate-induced rat osteoarthritis (OA) model. NP-2007 was orally administered at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg for 21 days. We showed that the production of matrix metalloproteinase-2, -3, and -9, decreased after NP-2007 treatment. The levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and prostaglandin E2 were also reduced after treatment of NP-2007. Furthermore, the administration of NP-2007 resulted in effective preservation of both the synovial membrane and knee cartilage and significantly decreased the transformation of fibrous tissue. We verified that the treatment of NP-2007 significantly reduced the production of nitric oxide and pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in lipopolysaccharides-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells by regulation of the NF-kB and MAPK signaling pathways. This study indicates that NP-2007 can alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis and can be applied as a novel treatment for OA treatment.

3D-Cultured Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Spheres Using Calcium-Alginate Scaffolds for Osteoarthritis Treatment in a Mono-Iodoacetate-Induced Rat Model

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease that causes pain, cartilage deformation, and joint inflammation. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are potential therapeutic agents for OA treatment. However, the 2D culture of MSCs could potentially affect their characteristics and functionality. In this study, calcium-alginate (Ca-Ag) scaffolds were prepared for human adipose-derived stem cell (hADSC) proliferation with a homemade functionally closed process bioreactor system; the feasibility of cultured hADSC spheres in heterologous stem cell therapy for OA treatment was then evaluated. hADSC spheres were collected from Ca-Ag scaffolds by removing calcium ions via ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) chelation. In this study, 2D-cultured individual hADSCs or hADSC spheres were evaluated for treatment efficacy in a monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA rat model. The results of gait analysis and histological sectioning showed that hADSC spheres were more effective at relieving arthritis degeneration. The results of serological and blood element analyses of hADSC-treated rats indicated that the hADSC spheres were a safe treatment in vivo. This study demonstrates that hADSC spheres are a promising treatment for OA and can be applied to other stem cell therapies or regenerative medical treatments.

Evaluation of Different Intraarticular Injection Therapies with Gait Analysis in a Rat Osteoarthritis Model

OBJECTIVE

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease that causes serious damage to joints, especially in elderly patients. The aim of study was to demonstrate the effectiveness of intraarticular therapies that are currently used or recently popularized in the treatment of OA.

DESIGN

The baseline values were determined by walking the rats on the CatWalk system. Afterwards, a monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced knee OA model was created with intraarticular MIA, and the rats were walked again on the CatWalk system and post-OA values were recorded. At this stage, the rats were divided into 4 groups, and intraarticular astaxanthin, intraarticular corticosteroid, intraarticular hyaluronic acid, and intraarticular astaxanthin + hyaluronic acid were applied to the groups, respectively. The rats were walked once more and posttreatment values were obtained. Nine different dynamic gait parameters were used in the comparison.

RESULTS

Significant changes were measured in 6 of the 9 dynamic gait parameters after the MIA-induced knee OA model. While the best improvement was observed in run duration (P = 0.0022), stride length (P < 0.0001), and swing speed (P = 0.0355) in the astaxanthin group, the results closest to basal values in paw print length (P < 0.0001), paw print width (P = 0.0101), and paw print area (P = 0.0277) were seen in the astaxanthin + hyaluronic acid group.

CONCLUSION

Astaxanthin gave better outcomes than corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid in both dynamic gait parameters and histological examinations. Intraarticular astaxanthin therapy can be a good alternative to corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid currently used in intraarticular therapy to treat OA.

In Vivo Investigation of the Ameliorating Effect of Tempol against MIA-Induced Knee Osteoarthritis in Rats: Involvement of TGF-β1/SMAD3/NOX4 Cue

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a complex disease characterized by structural, functional, and metabolic deteriorations of the whole joint and periarticular tissues. In the current study, we aimed to investigate the possible effects of tempol on knee OA induced by the chemical chondrotoxic monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) which closely mimics both the pain and structural changes associated with human OA. Rats were administrated oral tempol (100 mg/kg) one week post-MIA injection (3 mg/50 μL saline) at the right knee joints for 21 consecutive days. Tempol improved motor performance and debilitated the MIA-related radiological and histological alterations. Moreover, it subsided the knee joint swelling. Tempol decreased the cartilage degradation-related biomarkers as matrix metalloproteinase-13, bone alkaline phosphatase (bone ALP), and fibulin-3. The superoxide dismutase mimetic effect of tempol was accompanied by decreased NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), inflammatory mediators, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), over-released transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Tempol decreased the expression of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2). On the molecular level, tempol reduced the phosphorylated protein levels of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and small mother against decapentaplegic 3 homologs (SMAD3). These findings suggest the promising role of tempol in ameliorating MIA-induced knee OA in rats via collateral suppression of the catabolic signaling cascades including TGF-β1/SMAD3/NOX4, and NOX4/p38MAPK/NF-κB and therefore modulation of oxidative stress, catabolic inflammatory cascades, chondrocyte metabolic homeostasis.

Effects of Dipsacus asperoides and Phlomis umbrosa Extracts in a Rat Model of Osteoarthritis

The implementation of the Nagoya Protocol highlighted the importance of identifying alternative herbal products that are as effective as traditional medicine. Dipsacus asperoides and Phlomis umbrosa, two species used in the Korean medicine ‘Sok-dan’, are used for the treatment of bone- and arthritis-related diseases, and they are often mixed or misused. To identify herbal resources with similar efficacy, we compared the effects of D. asperoides extract (DAE) and P. umbrosa extract (PUE) on osteoarthritis (OA) in a monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA rat model. Weight-bearing distribution, serum cytokines, histopathological features, and the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) of knee joint tissues were examined in the OA rats treated with DAE and PUE (200 mg/kg) for 21 days. DAE and PUE restored weight-bearing distribution, inhibited the production of serum cytokines, and alleviated the histopathological features of the OA knee tissue. DAE or PUE treatment decreased OA-induced overexpression of MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-13 in the knee joint tissue. This study demonstrated the efficacy of both DAE and PUE in an MIA-induced OA model, providing a basis for the clinical use of these products in traditional Korean medicine.

Comparison of a manual walking platform and the CatWalk gait analysis system in a rat osteoarthritis model

BACKGROUND

Effects of osteoarthritis (OA) are observed in experimental animal models using different gait analysis systems.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine whether the Noldus CatWalk XT v. 10.9 gait analysis system (CatWalk) device can be used effectively in a chemically induced rat OA model and to reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the system compared to manual gait analysis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Ten Wistar rats were run on a manual walking platform as well as on the CatWalk and the basal values were recorded. For OA induction, monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) was injected into the left knee of all rats under anesthesia. After a period of 4 weeks for OA development, the rats were again run on both the manual and CatWalk gait platforms. For manual gait analysis, the stride length, paw print width and paw print length were measured on both knees. In addition to these parameters, the average run speed, run duration, maximum contact intensity, paw print area, mean stance, and swing speed were measured on the left knee (affected knee) using the CatWalk device.

RESULTS

Significant differences were observed in the stride width (p = 0.0272), left stride length (p = 0.0344), and left paw print length (p = 0.0233) recorded before and after OA via the manual walking platform. For CatWalk, a significant difference was detected in the left knee's average run speed (p = 0.0010), maximum contact intensity (p = 0.0155), paw print length (p = 0.0058), paw print width (p = 0.0324), and swing speed (p = 0.0066) based on data obtained before and after OA.

CONCLUSIONS

The CatWalk gait analysis system is suitable for the evaluation of OA rat models and related interventions. It also provides additional parameters compared to the manual system and minimizes human-related variation.

Efficacy of Methotrexate on Rat Knee Osteoarthritis Induced by Monosodium Iodoacetate

Objective

To explore whether methotrexate (MTX) prevents joint destruction and improves pain-related behaviors in the acute phase of knee osteoarthritis (OA) induced by monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) in a rat model.

Methods

Twenty of 25 male Wistar rats (10–14 weeks old) received 3 mg MIA via intra-articular injection into their right knee and were then administered a vehicle control (n=10) or 3 mg/kg MTX orally weekly (n=10). We assessed differences in pain-related behavior, spontaneous lifting behavior, micro-computed tomography (CT), histopathology, and expression of pain- and inflammatory-related genes using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) between the two groups for 4 weeks. Five rats were used as untreated controls to assess pain- and inflammatory-related mRNA expression in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and knee joints using RT-qPCR.

Results

Joint destruction and mechanical hyperalgesia were observed in the vehicle group. Decreases in mechanical pain thresholds for the knee joint and calf muscles were improved after MTX administration; however, joint damage assessed by micro-CT and histopathology was not significantly inhibited by MTX administration, while upregulation levels of transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily V, member 1 (TRPV-1) (P<0.01) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) (P=0.02) mRNA in the DRG and nerve growth factor NGF mRNA (P=0.03) in the affected knee joints were significantly suppressed in the MTX group compared with the vehicle group at week 4.

Conclusion

Our results imply that MTX administration improves pain-related behaviors and suppresses expression of pain-related mRNAs in the DRG and knee joint; however, MTX is not expected to prevent cartilage degeneration in MIA-induced OA in rat knee.

Establishing SW1353 Chondrocytes as a Cellular Model of Chondrolysis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common degenerative joint disease characterised by chondrocyte cell death. An in vitro model of chondrocyte cell death may facilitate drug discovery in OA management. In this study, the cytotoxicity and mode of cell death of SW1353 chondrocytes treated with 24 h of OA inducers, including interleukin-1β (IL-1β), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and monosodium iodoacetate (MIA), were investigated. The microscopic features, oxidative (isoprostane) and inflammatory markers (tumour necrosis factor-alpha; TNF-α) for control and treated cells were compared. Our results showed that 24 h of H2O2 and MIA caused oxidative stress and a concentration-dependent reduction of SW1353 cell viability without TNF-α level upregulation. H2O2 primarily induced chondrocyte apoptosis with the detection of blebbing formation, cell shrinkage and cellular debris. MIA induced S-phase arrest on chondrocytes with a reduced number of attached cells but without significant cell death. On the other hand, 24 h of IL-1β did not affect the cell morphology and viability of SW1353 cells, with a significant increase in intracellular TNF-α levels without inducing oxidative stress. In conclusion, each OA inducer exerts differential effects on SW1353 chondrocyte cell fate. IL-1β is suitable in the inflammatory study but not for chondrocyte cell death. H2O2 and MIA are suitable for inducing chondrocyte cell death and growth arrest, respectively.

A novel therapeutic combination of mesenchymal stem cells and stigmasterol to attenuate osteoarthritis in rodent model system-a proof of concept study

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have gained wide therapeutic acceptance in regenerative medicine due to their potential in repair process in restoring the damaged tissues and controlling inflammation. In the present study, we report for the first time the beneficial effects of combining placental-derived MSCs (hPMSCs) with stigmasterol-a plant-derived sterol to accelerate cartilage repair and regeneration in a monosodium-iodoacetate (MIA) induced osteoarthritis (OA) rat model. Control animals (Group I) received no treatment. Experimental animals (Group II) received a single intra-articular injection of MIA (2 mg) in the right knee joints. The Group II animals developed OA-like lesions within a week of MIA injection. They were subdivided further as: (II-A): OA, (II-B): OA+hPMSCs (2×10⁶ cells, single-dose/intra-articular injection), (II-C): OA+stigmasterol (20 µg/mL, single-dose/intra-articular injection) and (II-D): OA+hPMSCs+stigmasterol. The animals were monitored for four more weeks after which they were sacrificed, the right limbs dissected out and assessed for cartilage repair and regeneration using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and histology. Results showed that the combined administration of hPMSCs with stigmasterol (II-D) was the most effective in correcting the OA lesions, with concomitant repair and regeneration. However, hPMSCs (II-B) or stigmasterol (II-C) per se treated groups showed only marginal beneficial effects and were not significant. Thus the present study provides valuable insights in situ using a combination of hPMSCs and stigmasterol towards cartilage repair and regeneration. We advocate the participation of populating cells or residual chondrocytes in addition to its anti-inflammatory functions.

Daphne mucronata enhances cell proliferation and protects human adipose stem cells against monosodium iodoacetate induced oxidative stress in vitro

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are being used to treat many diseases as they exhibit great regenerative potential. However, MSC's transplantation sometimes does not yield the maximum regenerative outcome as they are unable to survive in inflammatory conditions. Several approaches including preconditioning are used to improve the survival rate of mesenchymal stem cells. One such recently reported approach is preconditioning MSCs with plant extracts. The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of Daphne mucronata extract on stressed human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSCs). Isolated hADMSCs were preconditioned with different concentrations of Daphne muconata extract and the protective, proliferative, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect was assessed through various assays and expression analysis of inflammatory markers regulated through NF-κB pathway. Results suggest that preconditioning hADMSCs with Daphne mucronata increased the cell viability, proliferative and protective potential of hADMSCs with a concomitant reduction in LDH, ROS and elevation in SOD activity. Moreover, both the ELISA and gene expression analysis demonstrated down regulations of inflammatory markers (IL1-β, TNF-α, p65, p50, MMP13) in Daphne mucronata preconditioned hADMSCs as compared to stress. This is the first study to report the use of MIA induced oxidative stress against hADMSC's and effect of Daphne mucronata on stressed hADMSCs. Results of these studies provided evidence that Daphne mucronata protects the hADMSCs during stress conditions by down regulating the inflammatory markers and hence increase the viability and proliferative potential of hADMSCs that is crucial for transplantation purposes.

Beneficial effects of Vigna angularis extract in osteoporosis and osteoarthritis

In Asia, Vigna angularis (azuki bean) has been used as a traditional medicine to treat various diseases because of its biological properties. Osteoarthritis (OA) and osteoporosis (OP) are common regenerative bone diseases that are characterized by deterioration of joint and bone structure. In this study, we evaluated the effects of Vigna angularis extract (VAE) on monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA and ovariectomy (OVX)-induced OP models. In the MIA-induced OA results, severe OA was alleviated by the administration of VAE. Extensive local damage in the cartilage and hemorrhagic and edematous of surrounding tissues were decreased by VAE treatment. Articular cartilage was almost intact except for a focal mild abrasion, and the surface was glistening, similar to that of the normal joint. In the OVX-induced OP results, bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) were recovered by VAE treatment, and it improved the microstructures of bone. These results show that VAE could inhibit OA and OP symptoms.

Evaluation of Long-Time Decoction-Detoxicated Hei-Shun-Pian (Processed Aconitum carmichaeli Debeaux Lateral Root With Peel) for Its Acute Toxicity and Therapeutic Effect on Mono-Iodoacetate Induced Osteoarthritis

Background

As a degenerative joint disease with severe cartilage destruction and pain, osteoarthritis (OA) has no satisfactory therapy to date. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Aconitum carmichaeli Debeaux derived Hei-shun-pian (Hsp) has been developed for joint pain treatment. However, it causes adverse events in OA patients. Long-time decoction has been traditionally applied to reduce the aconite toxicity of Hsp and other aconite herbs, but its detoxifying effect is uncertain.

Methods

Hsp was extracted with dilute decoction times (30, 60, and 120 min) and evaluated by toxicological, chemical, pharmacological assays. Acute toxicity assay and chemical analysis were employed to determine the toxicity and chemoprofile of Hsp extracts, respectively. Since the detoxified Hsp (dHsp) was defined, its therapeutic effect was evaluated by using an OA rat model induced by monosodium iodoacetate. dHsp at 14 g/kg was orally administered for 28 days, and the pain assessments (mechanical withdrawal threshold and thermal withdrawal latency) and histopathological analyses (HE and safranin-O staining) were performed. Real-time PCR (qPCR) was applied to determine the molecular actions of dHsp on cartilage tissue and on chondrocytes. MTT assay was conducted to evaluate the effect of dHsp on the cell viability of chondrocytes. The cellular and molecular assays were also conducted to analyze the functions of chemical components in dHsp.

Results

The chemoprofile result showed that the contents of toxic alkaloids (aconitine, mesaconitine, and hypaconitine) were decreased but that of non-toxic alkaloids (benzoylaconitine, benzoylmesaconitine, and benzoylhypaconitine) were increased with increasing decoction time. Acute toxicity assay showed that only Hsp extract with 120 min decoction was non-toxic within the therapeutic dose range. Thus, it was defined as dHsp for further experiment. In OA experiment, dHsp significantly attenuated joint pain and prevented articular degeneration from MIA attack. qPCR data showed that dHsp restored the abnormal expressions of Col10, Mmp2, Sox5, Adamts4/5/9, and up-regulated Col2 expression in rat cartilage. In vitro, dHsp-containing serum significantly proliferated rat chondrocytes and regulated the gene expressions of Col2, Mmp1, Adamts9, and Aggrecan in a similar way as the in vivo data. Moreover, aconitine, mesaconitine, and hypaconitine exerted cytotoxic effects on chondrocytes, while benzoylaconitine and benzoylhypaconitine except benzoylmesaconitine exhibited similar molecular actions to dHsp, indicating contributions of benzoylaconitine and benzoylhypaconitine to dHsp.

Conclusions

This study defined dHsp and demonstrated dHsp as a potential analgesic and disease modifying agent against OA with molecular actions on the suppression of chondrocyte hypertrophy and extracellular matrix degradation, providing a promising TCM candidate for OA therapy.

In vivo protective effects of upper zone of growth plate and cartilage matrix associated protein against cartilage degeneration in a monosodium iodoacetate induced osteoarthritis model

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease affecting the majority of over 65 year old people and characterized by cartilage degeneration, subchondral abnormal changes, and inflammation. Despite the enormous socioeconomic burden caused by OA, currently, there is no effective therapy against it. Upper zone of growth plate and cartilage matrix associated protein (UCMA) is a vitamin K dependent protein and has a critical role in pathophysiological conditions associated with bone and cartilage. However, there is no research on the protective role of intra-articular UCMA treatment in OA pathogenesis. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the potential therapeutic role of UCMA in an in vivo model of OA. We report for the first time that intra-articular UCMA injection ameliorated cartilage degeneration in a monosodium iodoacetate induced OA rat model. Furthermore, the OA-induced activation of nuclear factor kappa B and bone morphogenetic protein 2 signals was attenuated by UCMA. Our results indicated that UCMA decreased cartilage oligomeric matrix protein levels but did not affect interleukin 6, total antioxidant status, and total oxidant status levels in the serum. In conclusion, UCMA exhibited a therapeutic potential in the treatment of OA. This protective effect of UCMA is possibly achieved by reducing the aggrecanase activity and the production of inflammatory cytokines.

p66shc siRNA Nanoparticles Ameliorate Chondrocytic Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Osteoarthritis

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of joint disease associated with cartilage breakdown. However, the role played by mitochondrial dysfunction in OA remains inadequately understood. Therefore, we investigated the role played by p66shc during oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in OA and the effects of p66shc downregulation on OA progression.

Methods

Monosodium iodoacetate (MIA), which is commonly used to generate OA animal models, inhibits glycolysis and biosynthetic processes in chondrocytes, eventually causing cell death. To observe the effects of MIA and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-based nanoparticles, histological analysis, immunohistochemistry, micro-CT, mechanical paw withdrawal thresholds, quantitative PCR, and measurement of oxygen consumption rate and extracellular acidification rate were conducted.

Results

p-p66shc was highly expressed in cartilage from OA patients and rats with MIA-induced OA. MIA caused mitochondrial dysfunction and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and the inhibition of p66shc phosphorylation attenuated MIA-induced ROS production in human chondrocytes. Inhibition of p66shc by PLGA-based nanoparticles-delivered siRNA ameliorated pain behavior, cartilage damage, and inflammatory cytokine production in the knee joints of MIA-induced OA rats.

Conclusion

p66shc is involved in cartilage degeneration in OA. By delivering p66shc-siRNA-loaded nanoparticles into the knee joints with OA, mitochondrial dysfunction-induced cartilage damage can be significantly decreased. Thus, p66shc siRNA PLGA nanoparticles may be a promising option for the treatment of OA.

p47phox siRNA-Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles Suppress ROS/Oxidative Stress-Induced Chondrocyte Damage in Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disorder that has had an increasing prevalence due to the aging of the population. Recent studies have concluded that OA progression is related to oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS are produced at low levels in articular chondrocytes, mainly by the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase, and ROS production and oxidative stress have been found to be elevated in patients with OA. The cartilage of OA-affected rat exhibits a significant induction of p47phox, a cytosolic subunit of the NADPH oxidase, similarly to human osteoarthritis cartilage. Therefore, this study tested whether siRNA p47phox that is introduced with poly (D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (p47phox si_NPs) can alleviate chondrocyte cell death by reducing ROS production. Here, we confirm that p47phox si_NPs significantly attenuated oxidative stress and decreased cartilage damage in mono-iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA. In conclusion, these data suggest that p47phox si_NPs may be of therapeutic value in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Sensitivity of functional targeted neuropeptide evaluation in testing pregabalin analgesic efficacy in a rat model of osteoarthritis pain

The monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced joint degeneration in rats is the most used animal model to screen analgesic drugs to alleviate osteoarthritis (OA) pain. This study aimed to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of pregabalin (PGB) in an MIA-induced OA model in rodents by using functional and neuroproteomic pain assessment methods. Treatment group included PGB in curative intent over 9 days compared to gold standard therapy (positive controls) and placebo (negative control). Functional assessments of pain (quantitative sensory testing and operant test) were performed concomitantly with spinal neuropeptides quantification. At day 21 post-OA induction, PGB in MIA rats reduced tactile allodynia (P = 0.028) and improved the place escape/avoidance behaviour (P = 0.04) compared to values recorded at last time-point before initiating analgesic therapy. All spinal neuropeptide concentrations, such as substance P, calcitonin gene-related peptide, bradykinin and somatostatin, came back to normal (non-affected) rat values, compared to their increase observed in MIA rats receiving the placebo (P < 0.0001). Initiated 13 days after chemical OA induction, repeated medication with PGB provided analgesia according to quantitative sensory testing, operant test and targeted neuropeptides pain assessment methods. This report highlights the interest of using reliable and sensitive methods like targeted neuropeptide quantification to detect the analgesic effects of a test article with concomitant functional assessments of pain when studying OA pain components.

Evaluation of monosodium iodoacetate dosage to induce knee osteoarthritis: Relation with oxidative stress and pain

AIM

To determine the dose of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) required to induce oxidative stress, as well as pain and edema; to confirm the induction of knee osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms in rats by the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduction of antioxidant agents; and to verify the presence of histopathological injury in these affected joints.

METHOD

Biological markers of oxidative stress, pain, knee edema, and cartilage degeneration provided by different doses of MIA (0.5; 1.0 or 1.5 mg) in rat knee joints were analyzed. The animal evaluations were conducted during 15 days for mechanical and cold hypersensitivity, spontaneous pain and edema. After that, blood serum, intra-articular lavage and structures of knee, spinal cord and brainstem were collected for biochemical analysis; moreover, the knees were removed for histological evaluation.

RESULTS

This study demonstrates that the highest dose of MIA (1.5 mg) increased the oxidative stress markers and reduced the antioxidant reactions, both in the focus of the lesion and in distant sites. MIA also induced the inflammatory process, characterized by pain, edema, increase in neutrophil count and articular damage.

CONCLUSION

This model provides a basis for the exploration of underlying mechanisms in OA and the identification of mechanisms that may guide therapy and the discovery of OA signals and symptoms.

Protective Effects of Peucedanum japonicum Extract against Osteoarthritis in an Animal Model Using a Combined Systems Approach for Compound-Target Prediction

Peucedanum japonicum Thunberg is an herbal medicine used to treat neuralgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory-related diseases. However, its effects on osteoarthritis (OA) and its regulatory mechanisms have not been investigated by network analysis. Here, we investigated the pharmacological effects of Peucedanum japonicum extract (PJE) on OA, by combining in vivo effective verification and network pharmacology prediction. Rats in which OA was induced by monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) were treated with PJE (200 mg/kg), and histopathological parameters, weight bearing distribution and inflammatory factors in serum and joint tissue were measured after 28 days of treatment. Additionally, in silico network analysis was used to predict holistic OA regulatory mechanisms of PJE. The results showed that PJE exerted potential protective effects by recovering hind paw weight bearing distribution, alleviating histopathological features of cartilage and inhibiting inflammatory mediator levels in the OA rat model. Furthermore, network analysis identified caspase-3 (CASP3), caspase-7 (CASP7), and cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) as potential target genes; in addition, the TNF (Tumor necrosis factor) signaling pathway was linked to OA therapeutic action. Our combined animal OA model and network analysis confirmed the therapeutic effects of PJE against OA and identified intracellular signaling pathways, active compounds and target genes linked to its therapeutic action.

Characterization and comparison of rat monosodium iodoacetate and medial meniscal tear models of osteoarthritic pain

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative form of arthritis that can result in loss of joint function and chronic pain. The pathological pain state that develops with OA disease involves plastic changes in the peripheral and central nervous systems, however, the cellular mechanisms underlying OA are not fully understood. We characterized the medial meniscal tear (MMT) surgical model and the intra-articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) chemical model of OA in rats. Both models produced histological changes in the knee joint and associated bones consistent with OA pathology. Both models also increased p38 activation in the L3, but not L4 dorsal root ganglia (DRG), increased tyrosine hydroxylase immunostaining in the L3 DRG indicating sympathetic sprouting, and increased phosphorylated (p)CREB in thalamic neurons. In MIA-OA, but not MMT-OA rats, p38 and pERK were increased in the spinal cord, and pCREB was enhanced in the prefrontal cortex. Using in vivo electrophysiology, elevated spontaneous activity and increased responsiveness of wide dynamic range neurons to stimulation of the knee was found in both models. However, a more widespread sensitization was observed in the MIA-OA rats as neurons with paw receptive fields spontaneously fired at a greater rate in MIA-OA than MMT-OA rats. Taken together, the MIA and MMT models of OA share several common features associated with histopathology and sensitization of primary somatosensory pathways, but, observed differences between the models highlights unique consequences of the related specific injuries, and these differences should be considered when choosing an OA model and when interpreting data outcomes. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res.

Intra-articular injections of ketamine and 25% dextrose improve clinical and pathological outcomes in the monosodium iodoacetate model of osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

The study evaluated the effect of intra-articular injections of ketamine and 25% dextrose with triamcinolone acetate (TA) and hyaluronic acid (HA) on joint pathology and pain behavior in monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis (OA) in experimental mice.

METHODS

In phase I, the MIA-induced OA model was standardized. In phase II, mice were divided into three groups: disease controls (DC), ketamine 12 mg/kg (K12) and ketamine 24 mg/kg (K24) to select an effective dose of ketamine for phase III. In phase III, the groups were: DC, normal controls (NC), K24, 25% dextrose (D25) - 10 μL, TA 6 mg/kg, and HA - 3.5 mg/kg. The effect of ketamine was compared with the standard drugs - TA and HA. In phases II and III, after 7 days following the induction of OA, animals were subjected to weekly behavioral tests and biweekly drug administration from week 2 to week 4. Subsequently, after 4 weeks knee joint samples were collected and sent for histopathological evaluation to a veterinary pathologist.

RESULTS

In phase I, the DC group showed significant OA changes as compared to NC on knee joint histopathology scoring. In phase II, all the behavioral tests and knee joint histopathology results demonstrated a significant improvement with K24 as compared to DC. In phase III, significant differences were found between DC vs. HA, DC vs. D25, DC vs. K24, K24 vs. TA, HA vs. TA for open field test and hot plate test (p<0.001), whereas HA and ketamine showed comparable results for these tests. There was a significant improvement in D25, TA and K24, HA groups as compared to DC in histopathology scores, (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The NMDA antagonist effect of ketamine and the proliferative effect of 25% dextrose showed a reduction in pain and disease activity in the OA model.

Bioactive Turmerosaccharides from Curcuma longa Extract (NR-INF-02): Potential Ameliorating Effect on Osteoarthritis Pain

Background:

Curcuma longa has long history of medicinal use in Ayurveda. A unique product NR-INF-02 was prepared from C. longa that was standardized to contain turmerosaccharides.

Objective:

The present study investigated the effect of turmerosaccharides rich fraction of NR-INF-02 on monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA pain animal model that mimics human OA. Further, the analgesic effect of turmerosaccharides rich fraction was compared to turmerosaccharides less fraction of NR-INF-02.

Materials and Methods:

OA pain was chemically induced by intra-articular administration of single dose of 25 μl of 0.9% saline containing 0.3 mg MIA into the right knee of male albino Wistar rat. Turmerosaccharides rich fraction and turmerosaccharides less fraction (at 22.5, 45 and 90 mg/kg rat body weight dose levels) were administered as a single dose orally on day 5 of post-MIA injection. OA pain was measured using hind limb weight-bearing ability at 1, 3, 6, and 24 h post-test substance administration on day 5.

Results:

Oral administration of turmerosaccharides rich fraction and turmerosaccharides less fraction (at 45 and 90 mg/kg) although significantly decreased the OA pain at all the intervals, the effect of turmerosaccharides rich fraction (57%) on OA pain was superior to turmerosaccharides less fraction (35%).

Conclusion:

Bioactive turmerosaccharides from C. longa extract contribute to the observed anti-arthritic effect in rats.

SUMMARY

Osteoarthritic pain was induced by intra-articular injection of MIA into the right knee

Single administration of TRF/TLF on day 5 resulted in dose-dependent significant reduction of OA pain

TRF showed better analgesic activity than TLF

TRF at 45 and 90 mg/kg has similar effects on OA pain as that of tramadol

Turmerosaccharides identified as bioactive constituents of C. longa extract.

Abbreviations used: MIA: Monosodium iodoacetate; i.ar: Intra-articular; OA: Osteoarthritis; TRF: Turmerosaccharides rich fraction; TLF: Turmerosaccharides less fraction; PGE2: Prostaglandin E2; ROS: Reactive oxygen species.

Rabbit model for osteoarthrosis of the temporomandibular joint as a basis for assessment of outcomes after intervention

Osteoarthritis can be induced in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) by primary or secondary trauma, or overloading of the joint. We have therefore systematically evaluated the histological progression of experimental osteoarthritis induced by a high concentration of monosodium iodoacetate into the rabbit TMJ. These findings may contribute to the establishment of a protocol to investigate the benefits of treatment of osteoarthritis of the TMJ. We used 21 male New Zealand rabbits; the 15 in the test group were given an intra-articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate 10mg/ml into the right TMJ and were killed after 60 (n=5), 80 (n=5), and 100 days (n=5). The six in the control group were given an injection of saline into the right TMJ. The assessment system for osteoarthritis based on six grades was used for the histological analysis of severity. The model was effective in producing histological changes in the cartilage consistent with those found in osteoarthritis at all time points. The within-group analysis indicated that the disease did not progress after 60 days. The successful induction of osteoarthritis in this way, its stabilisation after 60 days, and the appropriate size of the animal suggest that this experimental model is ideal for future studies of the effectiveness of treatment in osteoarthritis of the TMJ.

Effect of a topical copper indomethacin gel on inflammatory parameters in a rat model of osteoarthritis

Objective

We aimed to investigate the effect of topical application of a Copper indomethacin (Cu-Indo) gel preparation on monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) induced arthritis of the knee joint of rats and to test our hypothesis that copper complex of indomethacin could be a more potent anti-inflammatory agent than its parent compound.

Methods

After induction of osteoarthritis by the intracapsular injection of 50 μL with 40 mg/mL MIA, we compared the anti-inflammatory efficacy and safety of a topical application of 1% indomethacin gel in a dose of 1 g/kg of the gel (equivalent to 10 mg/kg of the active substance) daily for 3 weeks versus three decremental dose levels of Cu-Indo gel: an equivalent dose, half the dose, and 25% of the dose of indomethacin. Anti-inflammatory efficacy was assessed in all treated groups by measurement of serum inflammatory cytokines: interleukin 6, interleukin 8, and tumor necrosis factor alpha; and by the weekly assessment of knee joint swelling. Joint mobility and motor coordination were also assessed once weekly by the accelerating rotarod apparatus; histopathological examination of affected joints was also performed. Safety of topical application of Cu-Indo (0.25, 0.5, and 1 g/kg) for up to 3 months to rats’ skin was determined by the estimation of a complete blood count, liver and kidney functions, and histopathologic examination for target tissues.

Results

Cu-Indo gel at lower doses was superior to or at least as effective as its parent substance, indomethacin, in most of the studied parameters of inflammation. The lowest tested dose of Cu-Indo, corresponding to 25% of the parent substance indomethacin, exhibited the highest efficacy in reducing the elevated serum-tested interleukins and in increasing the time of duration on the rotarod test, whereas its effect on reduction of edema and tumor necrosis factor alpha was comparable to that of the others. After 3 months of daily application, there were no notable changes in studied safety parameters with the lowest Cu-Indo dose, but the group treated with the higher dose showed a small but statistically significant increase in serum-unconjugated bilirubin and a slight decrease in hemoglobin levels, red blood cells, and platelet count, with normal indices denoting a slight hemolytic effect at the highest dose.

Conclusion

Cu-Indo gel has potent anti-inflammatory activity against joint inflammation in the MIA-treated rat model of osteoarthritis at doses of 0.25, 0.5, and 1 g/kg. The lowest studied dose was better on both safety and efficacy parameters.

Deer bone extract suppresses articular cartilage damage induced by monosodium iodoacetate in osteoarthritic rats: an in vivo micro-computed tomography study

We evaluated the anti-osteoarthritic effects of deer bone extract on articular cartilage damage by using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) in monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis (OA) in rats. Male Wistar rats (6 weeks of age) were randomly divided into 5 groups (10 rats/group): sham control (SC; PBS injection+PBS 1 mL treatment); negative control (NC; MIA injection+PBS 1 mL treatment); positive control (PC; MIA injection+250 mg/kg glucosamine sulfate/chondroitin sulfate mixture treatment); low dose (LDB; MIA injection+250 mg/kg deer bone extract treatment); and high dose (HDB; MIA injection+500 mg/kg deer bone extract treatment). After 50 days of treatment, we observed that the administration of deer bone extract protected against bone destruction and reduced the number of erosion lacunae. When deer bone extract was administered, the trabecular thickness distribution (Tb.Th) (LDB: 75.9 μm, HDB: 80.7 μm vs. NC: 48.0 μm) and the trabecular bone volume fraction ratio (BV/TV) (LDB: 43.8%, HDB: 48.2% vs. NC: 39.1%) were significantly restored. Additionally, the trabecular separation (Tb.Sp) increase caused by MIA was decreased significantly with the administration of deer bone extract (LDB: 73.4 μm, HDB: 81.2 μm vs. NC: 112.0 μm). We concluded that the oral administration of deer bone extract effectively relieved the morphological changes induced by MIA injection in an animal model.

Monosodium iodoacetate-induced osteoarthritis produces pain-depressed wheel running in rats: implications for preclinical behavioral assessment of chronic pain

Pain stimulates some behaviors (e.g., withdrawal responses) and depresses other behaviors (e.g., feeding and locomotion). We are developing methods for testing candidate analgesics using measurements of pain-depressed behaviors. Such assays may model important aspects of clinical pain and complement traditional procedures that measure pain-stimulated behaviors. The present study characterized the effects of a chronic pain manipulation (monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis) on wheel running in rats. Rats had 24 h voluntary access to running wheels. Duration of running wheel acquisition was manipulated such that rats had either 21 or 7 days of running wheel access prior to MIA administration. Wheel running was monitored for an additional 21 days following MIA administration. MIA produced concentration- and acquisition length-dependent decreases in wheel running. Parallel experiments demonstrated that MIA produced concentration-dependent tactile allodynia and shifts in hind limb weight bearing. MIA was differentially potent across assays with a potency rank: weight-bearing≥von Frey>running wheel. MIA produced greater depression of wheel running in rats with relatively high baseline running rates compared to rats with relatively low baseline running rates. The differential potency of MIA across assays and apparent rate-dependent effects in running wheels may impact our traditional interpretations of preclinical nociceptive and antinociceptive testing.