Logo Living Systematic Review Osteoarthritis Financially supported by: Logo IGPTR Logo Physiotherapie Tschopp und Hilfiker Brig Glis Work in Progress Version No. 0.1.80.63. Updated: 2026 February 10 09:16
Science Slam Physiotherapy-Congress Basel 2025 (click here for video on youtube). PLOS ONE (13 Nov 2025): A mixed-methods study from Saudi Arabia finds that 90% of adults with knee osteoarthritis have very low physical activity levels, largely due to cultural, psychological, and logistical barriers, highlighting the need for patient-centred education and improved access to physiotherapy. (click here for free article). Frontiers in Public Health (28 Oct 2025): A meta-analysis of 13 RCTs (n=701) shows Tai Chi significantly improves pain, stiffness, function and physical health in knee osteoarthritis, with long-term (>16 weeks), three-times-weekly practice most effective for pain and function. (click here for free article). BMJ (2025): In a network meta-analysis of 217 RCTs (n=15 684), aerobic exercise emerged as the most effective and safe modality for improving pain, function, gait performance, and quality of life in knee osteoarthritis. (click here for free article). BMJ (2025): Editorial argues that although aerobic exercise may be particularly effective for knee osteoarthritis, priority should be on personalised, community-supported plans that help people sustain any suitable exercise over the long term. In a randomized trial of 84 patients with mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis, supervised exercise alone was as good as or better than platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections (with or without exercise) for pain, function, and quality of life over 24 weeks, leading the authors to **recommend exercise and advise against PRP**.
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AI-Generated Summaries: Cartilage Deformation & Exercise

These summaries are generated automatically using Claude (Anthropic) based on article titles and abstracts. They are intended as a reading aid — always refer to the original articles for full details.

Summary language:

📊 Overarching Synthesis

Based on 1252 studies · Generated with claude-sonnet-4-20250514 · 2026-02-12 12:01:36

Comprehensive Synthesis: Articular Cartilage Deformation, Lubrication, and Exercise Effects

General Overview

The field of articular cartilage biomechanics has evolved into a sophisticated multidisciplinary domain that integrates advanced imaging technologies, molecular biology, and mechanical engineering principles to understand how cartilage responds to loading. The research demonstrates remarkable consensus that cartilage is a mechanically responsive tissue whose health depends on appropriate loading patterns rather than load minimization. This paradigm shift from viewing mechanical forces as purely destructive to recognizing their essential role in cartilage homeostasis represents a fundamental advancement in musculoskeletal science.

The evidence consistently reveals that cartilage exhibits immediate, transient responses to mechanical loading, including temporary thickness reductions and compositional changes that typically recover within 30-90 minutes post-exercise. This recovery capacity appears to be a hallmark of healthy cartilage, while impaired recovery characterizes pathological conditions. The research has evolved from simple compression studies to complex multi-modal investigations examining mechanotransduction pathways, cellular responses, and the intricate relationships between mechanical stimulation and tissue adaptation.

Current investigations increasingly focus on understanding optimal loading parameters that promote cartilage health while identifying thresholds beyond which loading becomes detrimental. The field has moved beyond descriptive studies to mechanistic investigations examining how chondrocytes sense mechanical forces through ion channels, connexin hemichannels, and calcium signaling pathways, ultimately translating these signals into beneficial or harmful cellular responses.

Key Findings by Joint Region

Knee cartilage, particularly the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral compartments, dominates the research landscape and provides the most comprehensive understanding of cartilage responses to loading. Studies consistently demonstrate compartment-specific responses, with greater medial compartment changes during weight-bearing activities. Patellofemoral cartilage exhibits higher friction coefficients and reduced lubricin distribution compared to tibiofemoral regions, suggesting unique biomechanical challenges. Individuals with ACL reconstruction show altered loading patterns and potentially compromised cartilage responses, while those with knee osteoarthritis demonstrate greater deformation following loading and impaired recovery capacity.

Hip cartilage research reveals concerning findings in elite athletes, with evidence of accelerated degenerative changes despite simultaneously enhanced repair mechanisms. In vivo pressure measurements demonstrate that hip joints experience forces substantially exceeding 18 MPa during daily activities, far greater than previously estimated. Joint surface incongruity emerges as a beneficial adaptation that distributes loads and promotes fluid circulation, challenging conventional assumptions about optimal joint geometry.

Ankle and talar cartilage investigations focus heavily on chronic ankle instability populations, revealing increased cartilage deformation and altered mechanical properties. These studies demonstrate that joint instability compromises cartilage's normal mechanical behavior and may predispose to degenerative changes. Temporomandibular joint research shows unique loading patterns with balancing-side predominance during chewing activities, and reveals that disc removal doubles friction coefficients while soft diet consumption reduces condylar cartilage thickness.

Loading Types & Activities

The research reveals complex dose-response relationships between different activities and cartilage health. Running consistently demonstrates protective rather than harmful effects in most populations, with marathon running causing 5-8% thickness reductions that fully recover within 24-90 minutes. Marathon runners show increased protective collagen synthesis while simultaneously decreasing breakdown markers, suggesting that endurance exercise promotes favorable cartilage turnover.

Dynamic loading emerges as superior to static compression across multiple studies. Cyclic compression at 2.5-5% strain promotes beneficial cartilage responses and enhances matrix synthesis, while excessive loading beyond 15% strain proves detrimental and can cause cellular damage. Intermittent loading with appropriate rest periods promotes beneficial metabolism, while continuous or excessive loading leads to proteoglycan loss and cellular dysfunction.

High-intensity interval training and rapid loading rates are associated with greater cartilage stress compared to steady-state activities, though moderate exercise frequencies appear more beneficial than intensive regimens. The research establishes optimal loading parameters, such as 0.5 MPa stress with 100-second rest intervals for promoting cartilage matrix synthesis. Importantly, loading history and pattern matter more than absolute magnitude, with habitually active individuals showing reduced cartilage responses to exercise challenges, suggesting beneficial conditioning effects.

Measurement Methods

Advanced imaging techniques dominate the research landscape, with quantitative MRI emerging as the gold standard for assessing cartilage composition and structure. T2, T1ρ, and T2* relaxation mapping frequently detect acute changes in cartilage hydration and matrix organization following mechanical loading. T2 mapping studies consistently show decreased relaxation times after running, indicating fluid loss and biochemical changes, while T1ρ values can remain elevated for months following intensive exercise like marathon running.

Ultrasound imaging gains prominence for measuring cartilage thickness changes, offering real-time assessment capabilities that complement MRI findings. Blood and synovial fluid biomarkers, particularly cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) and various matrix metalloproteinases, provide insights into cartilage metabolism responses. Synovial fluid biomarkers appear more sensitive than imaging for detecting early cartilage changes, particularly in athletic populations.

Sophisticated mechanical testing approaches range from atomic force microscopy for nanoscale characterization to whole-joint loading systems employing physiologically relevant conditions. Novel techniques include displacement-encoding MRI methods achieving cellular-level resolution, specialized friction-testing bioreactors, and machine learning approaches for automated damage detection. Multi-scale computational modeling increasingly links joint-level mechanics to cellular deformation through advanced finite element approaches.

Recovery & Clinical Relevance

The capacity for cartilage recovery emerges as a critical determinant of joint health, with healthy cartilage demonstrating remarkable resilience to mechanical stress through complete recovery from substantial deformation. Recovery times vary from 15-90 minutes for most loading protocols, with this recovery capacity appearing compromised in pathological conditions including osteoarthritis and following joint injuries.

Clinical populations consistently show altered cartilage responses compared to healthy individuals. ACL-reconstructed patients with lower daily activity levels show greater biomarker increases after walking tests, suggesting that regular activity may provide protective conditioning effects. Older adults demonstrate age-related changes in cartilage mechanical properties and reduced deformation capacity, while osteoarthritic cartilage exhibits altered mechanical responses with impaired load distribution.

The research establishes clear mechanical thresholds for cellular damage, with 8% strain identified as a critical level for chondrocyte death. However, moderate mechanical loading proves protective or therapeutic, while excessive loading triggers harmful oxidative stress and inflammatory cascades. These findings have important implications for rehabilitation protocols, suggesting that appropriate mechanical stimulation should be maintained even in injured or degenerative joints, but within carefully controlled parameters.

Lubrication & Synovial Fluid

Joint lubrication mechanisms represent a sophisticated, multimode system that automatically adjusts based on loading conditions. Interstitial fluid pressurization emerges as the dominant lubrication mechanism rather than boundary lubrication alone, with strong correlations between fluid load support and friction coefficients. Normal joints maintain protective gel films approximately 1 micron thick during physiological loading, while inflammatory conditions dramatically reduce this protective layer thickness.

Lubricin (PRG4) consistently emerges as crucial for joint health, with its expression directly correlating with lubrication quality and chondroprotective effects. Mechanical forces directly regulate lubricin expression through TGF-β and CREB pathways, establishing a positive feedback loop where appropriate loading enhances lubrication capacity. Exercise generally increases lubricin expression, improving matrix synthesis and activating protective pathways, though excessive exercise intensity can compromise these beneficial effects.

Hyaluronic acid demonstrates superior boundary lubrication properties and reveals complex interactions with phospholipids in joint lubrication. However, calcium ions in osteoarthritic joints impair the lubricating properties of both hyaluronic acid and lubricin, suggesting that inflammatory changes compromise multiple aspects of joint lubrication simultaneously. The concept of "tribological rehydration" emerges as a novel mechanism whereby sliding motion actively drives fluid recovery in compressed cartilage through hydrodynamic effects.

Research increasingly recognizes that cartilage's primary protective function may be preventing fatigue failure rather than simply reducing friction. Surprisingly, enzymatically degraded cartilage can maintain normal lubrication during sliding, suggesting that excessive tissue deformation rather than friction drives osteoarthritis progression.

Warm-Up & Preconditioning Effects

The research reveals important preconditioning effects whereby prior loading or warm-up activities modify subsequent cartilage responses to mechanical challenges. Regular physical activity conditions cartilage to better withstand acute loading, with habitually active individuals showing reduced cartilage responses to exercise challenges. This suggests that consistent mechanical stimulation enhances cartilage's adaptive capacity and resilience.

Mechanical preconditioning significantly improves both natural and engineered cartilage properties, with sliding motion particularly important for developing functional surface characteristics. The pericellular matrix emerges as crucial for proper mechanotransduction, with chondrocytes having intact pericellular coatings responding more favorably to compression than isolated cells. This highlights the importance of maintaining cartilage's structural integrity for optimal mechanical responses.

Warm-up effects extend to cellular and molecular levels, with appropriate loading protocols enhancing cellular responses and improving tissue properties. Moderate mechanical loading enhances beneficial gene expression including aggrecan, collagen II, and PRG4 while excessive loading triggers inflammatory cascades. The research suggests that graduated loading protocols may optimize cartilage's preparedness for subsequent mechanical challenges, though optimal warm-up parameters remain to be fully established.

Gaps & Future Directions

Despite significant advances, important gaps remain in understanding cartilage biomechanics. Limited research directly investigates the relationships between different lubrication mechanisms and their relative contributions under various loading conditions. The temporal dynamics of mechanotransduction pathways and how quickly cartilage can adapt to changing mechanical environments require further investigation.

Long-term effects of different exercise regimens on cartilage health remain incompletely understood, particularly the optimal balance between loading intensity, frequency, and recovery time across different populations and age groups. The mechanisms underlying the apparent protective conditioning effects of regular activity need clarification to inform exercise prescription for joint health.

Clinical translation represents a significant challenge, as laboratory findings regarding optimal loading parameters need validation in diverse patient populations with varying degrees of joint pathology. The development of personalized loading protocols based on individual cartilage properties and pathological status represents an important future direction. Additionally, the field requires better integration of findings across different joint regions, as most research focuses on the knee while other joints may exhibit distinct biomechanical behaviors requiring tailored approaches to mechanical conditioning and therapeutic intervention.

Showing 1252 of 1252 summaries · Generated with claude-sonnet-4-20250514

MENISCUS PROGENITOR CELLS COMBINED WITH JOINT LAVAGE PROMOTE MENISCUS REGENERATION AND CARTILAGE PROTECTION IN RAT MODELS.

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2025.1724656 · Summary generated: 2026-02-12 07:32:33
This study investigated whether combining joint lavage (washing) with meniscus progenitor cell (MPC) transplantation could improve meniscus repair in rats with partial meniscus removal. The researchers used rat models to test the combined therapy against individual treatments, measuring tissue regeneration, inflammatory markers, and biomechanical properties, while also examining how the inflammatory molecule IL-1β affects MPC function in laboratory conditions. The results showed that joint lavage significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines that normally impair MPC function, and the combined treatment produced superior meniscus regeneration with better collagen formation, preserved cartilage health, and improved mechanical properties compared to either treatment alone. These findings suggest that reducing joint inflammation through lavage before cell therapy creates a better environment for meniscus repair, offering a practical and cost-effective approach that could be readily translated to clinical practice.

ELECTRICAL BEHAVIOR OF CARTILAGE DURING LOADING.

DOI: 10.1126/science.178.4064.982 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:02:01
This study investigated the electrical properties of cartilage when subjected to mechanical loading. The researchers identified two distinct electrical mechanisms: a brief, high-amplitude piezoelectric-like response and a prolonged, lower-amplitude response caused by streaming potentials that occur when fluid moves through the cartilage matrix. The findings reveal that cartilage becomes electrically polarized during deformation, which may contribute to joint lubrication mechanisms. These electrical responses could represent important biomechanical processes that help maintain healthy joint function during movement.

ANATOMY AND HISTOLOGY OF THE HUMAN TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT.

DOI: 10.1159/000397863 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:01:55
This study aimed to comprehensively examine the anatomy and histology of the human temporomandibular joint (TMJ) to understand its structure-function relationships and disease mechanisms. The researchers used anatomical and histological analysis to investigate the meniscus, ligaments, muscle attachments, and articular surfaces of the TMJ.

The key findings revealed that the meniscus moves together with the mandibular condyle during jaw translation, with specific regions (gracilis and pars posterior) bearing frictional loads during different phases of jaw movement. The study identified that abnormal condyle positioning, potentially caused by orthodontic procedures, can lead to excessive bone remodeling and osteoarthritis development.

The research provides important insights into TMJ biomechanics, showing how the lateral ligament restrains joint movement and how the transitional zone plays a critical role in osteoarthritis progression when subjected to abnormal pressure.

SOME NEW EVIDENCE ON HUMAN JOINT LUBRICATION.

DOI: 10.1136/ard.34.4.277 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:01:47
This study aimed to investigate the lubrication mechanisms in human joints using an improved experimental approach. The researchers developed a new pendulum machine that could apply sudden loads to joints while directly measuring frictional torque, then tested natural hip joints under various loading conditions. The results revealed that human hip joints use different lubrication mechanisms depending on the situation: squeeze film lubrication occurs during sudden loading, self-generated fluid films operate at low loads, and boundary lubrication becomes important at higher loads. A single test on an arthritic hip showed dramatically increased friction (15-fold higher than normal), highlighting how joint disease severely impairs the natural lubrication system.

RUNNING INHIBITS THE REVERSAL OF ATROPHIC CHANGES IN CANINE KNEE CARTILAGE AFTER REMOVAL OF A LEG CAST.

DOI: 10.1002/art.1780241101 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:01:42
This study examined whether vigorous running affects the recovery of knee cartilage after immobilization-induced damage in dogs. Researchers immobilized dog legs in casts for 6 weeks to cause cartilage atrophy, then compared recovery between dogs that resumed normal walking versus those that ran 6 miles daily on a treadmill for 3 weeks, measuring cartilage thickness, composition, and proteoglycan function. After cast removal, normal walking allowed complete recovery of all cartilage properties within 3 weeks, but intensive running prevented this recovery and maintained the atrophic changes including reduced thickness, decreased proteoglycan content, and impaired proteoglycan-hyaluronic acid binding. The findings suggest that while moderate activity promotes cartilage healing after immobilization, excessive exercise may inhibit recovery and perpetuate cartilage damage.

PROTEOGLYCAN ALTERATIONS IN RABBIT KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE FOLLOWING PHYSICAL EXERCISE AND IMMOBILIZATION.

DOI: 10.3109/03008208309015010 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:01:34
This study examined how different mechanical loading conditions affect the biochemical composition of articular cartilage in rabbit knees over 24-27 days. Researchers compared cartilage from immobilized joints, exercised joints (running), and joints with increased weight bearing, analyzing proteoglycan extractability, composition, and aggregation properties using biochemical assays. The key findings showed that immobilization reduced strongly-bound proteoglycans and impaired their ability to form aggregates with hyaluronic acid, while increased exercise elevated easily extractable proteoglycans. Increased weight bearing had opposite effects to immobilization, increasing strongly-bound proteoglycans and promoting accumulation of keratan sulfate-rich proteoglycans and collagen, suggesting that mechanical loading stimulates cartilage matrix strengthening.

SYNOVIAL FLUID CIRCULATION IN THE HIP JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/0306-9877(84)90010-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:01:28
This study aimed to investigate whether the natural incongruency (imperfect fit) between hip joint surfaces creates a pumping mechanism that circulates synovial fluid for nutrition and lubrication. The researchers used X-ray screening to track barium sulphate drops placed between the articular surfaces of hip joints under varying loads. They observed that loading the joint spread the barium between the surfaces and pushed a significant portion into the joint cavity (fossa), while unloading drew all the barium back into the intercartilage space. These findings support the hypothesis that joint incongruency acts as a systematic pump, circulating synovial fluid throughout the hip joint to enhance cartilage nutrition and lubrication during normal movement and loading cycles.

CONTACT PRESSURES IN THE HUMAN HIP JOINT MEASURED IN VIVO.

DOI: 10.1073/pnas.83.9.2879 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:01:23
This study aimed to directly measure contact pressures in the human hip joint during real-world activities using novel in vivo technology. The researchers implanted an instrumented femoral head prosthesis equipped with pressure sensors that transmitted data from 10 locations at 253 Hz, and collected measurements for over one year during various activities while synchronizing with movement and force data. The study revealed extremely high local cartilage pressures (up to 18 MPa) with steep spatial and temporal gradients that were considerably higher than previous laboratory estimates, particularly during normal movements involving muscle co-contraction. These findings suggest that current gait analysis methods underestimate actual joint forces and have important implications for understanding osteoarthritis development, designing hip prostheses, and developing rehabilitation protocols.

MATURATION OF PROTEOGLYCAN MATRIX IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER INCREASED AND DECREASED JOINT LOADING. A STUDY IN YOUNG RABBITS.

DOI: 10.3109/03008208709002004 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:01:16
This study investigated how different mechanical loading conditions affect cartilage development in growing rabbits by splinting one knee joint in extension for 1-8 weeks. The researchers analyzed biochemical changes in cartilage from both the immobilized (decreased loading) and contralateral weight-bearing (increased loading) limbs, measuring proteoglycan composition, hyaluronic acid, keratan sulfate, and collagen content.

The key findings showed that increased loading accelerated normal cartilage maturation, promoting accumulation of tightly-bound, keratan sulfate-rich proteoglycans and hyaluronic acid, while decreased loading disrupted this maturation process by inhibiting these same accumulation patterns. The tibial medial condyle showed the most pronounced changes, with increased loading leading to replacement of extractable proteoglycans with more highly sulfated, non-extractable forms that are characteristic of mature cartilage.

LEVELS OF CHONDROITIN-6-SULFATE AND NONAGGREGATING PROTEOGLYCANS AT ARTICULAR CARTILAGE CONTACT SITES IN THE KNEES OF YOUNG DOGS SUBJECTED TO MODERATE RUNNING EXERCISE.

DOI: 10.1002/anr.1780321014 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:01:10
This study investigated how moderate running exercise affects the composition of proteoglycans (key structural molecules) in knee cartilage of young dogs. Young Beagle dogs were subjected to 15 weeks of running at 4 km/day, after which researchers analyzed proteoglycan levels and types at cartilage contact sites including the patella, patellofemoral groove, and medial femoral condyle. The results showed increased proteoglycan levels at all contact sites, with the increases consisting specifically of non-aggregating proteoglycans (rather than the typical aggregating type) and higher levels of chondroitin-6-sulfate compared to chondroitin-4-sulfate. The authors conclude that these changes represent beneficial tissue maturation and adaptation to the increased mechanical loading from running exercise.

PASSIVE LOSS OF PROTEOGLYCAN FROM ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1016/0304-4165(89)90158-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:01:04
This study investigated how proteoglycans (key cartilage molecules) are naturally lost from articular cartilage tissue in the absence of enzymatic breakdown. The researchers used bovine cartilage explants treated with proteinase inhibitors to block enzyme activity, then analyzed the size, structure, and binding properties of proteoglycans released into the culture medium over time, comparing results with and without inhibitors.

The key findings showed that proteoglycans can passively move through and exit cartilage tissue even without enzymatic degradation, with loss rates dependent on surface area and temperature but occurring equally from all cartilage surfaces. The temperature dependence and calculated activation energy suggested this passive loss involves breaking of electrostatic and hydrogen bonds rather than simple diffusion, indicating that proteoglycans are not permanently fixed within the cartilage matrix but can naturally migrate through the tissue structure.

DEVELOPMENT OF AN ARTIFICIAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/0267-6605(90)90053-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:00:57
This study aimed to develop an artificial articular cartilage using poly(vinyl alcohol)-hydrogel (PVA-H) as an alternative to existing materials like polyethylene. The researchers evaluated PVA-H through mechanical testing (including lubrication properties, stress transmission, and wear resistance) and biocompatibility assessment via histological examination of implanted samples in animal models over 8-52 weeks. Key findings showed that PVA-H demonstrated superior lubrication characteristics with thicker fluid films under pressure and better shock absorption compared to polyethylene, though it had higher wear rates. The material showed excellent biocompatibility with no inflammatory or degenerative tissue responses and could be successfully attached to bone using composite techniques, suggesting promise as an artificial cartilage material despite some remaining challenges.

INFLUENCE OF CYCLIC LOADING ON THE NUTRITION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1136/ard.49.7.536 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:00:51
This study investigated whether mechanical loading enhances nutrient transport in articular cartilage through a "pumping" mechanism that moves fluid in and out of the tissue during joint movement. The researchers used human femoral head cartilage plugs exposed to radioactive tracers and subjected them to simulated walking loads (2.8 MPa at 1 Hz), comparing nutrient uptake and release rates with unloaded control samples. The results showed that cyclic loading had no significant effect on the transport of small molecules like urea, sodium, glucose, and oxygen, indicating that pumping does not improve nutrition for these essential nutrients. However, the movement of large molecules like serum albumin was enhanced by 30-100% with mechanical loading, suggesting that pumping may help clear larger waste products from cartilage.

TRIBOLOGY OF HUMAN AND ARTIFICIAL JOINTS.

DOI: 10.1243/PIME_PROC_1991_205_287_02 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:00:43
This study aimed to compare lubrication mechanisms between natural human joints and artificial joint replacements to identify design improvements. The researchers analyzed lubrication patterns in various joints (hip, knee, ankle, and finger joints) and tested different artificial bearing materials, including compliant surfaces and plastic-on-plastic combinations. The key finding was that healthy human joints achieve superior fluid film lubrication due to dynamic loading and the natural compliance of articular cartilage, while rigid artificial joints operate under mixed lubrication with higher friction and wear from solid-to-solid contact. The study demonstrated that incorporating compliant bearing surfaces in artificial joints can reproduce the beneficial lubrication effects of natural joints, though material degradation in body fluids remains a concern.

TISSUE RESPONSES TO DEGENERATIVE CHANGES IN THE TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT: A REVIEW.

DOI: 10.1016/0278-2391(91)90143-a · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:00:37
This review examines how degenerative changes in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) affect various joint tissues and lead to clinical symptoms. The authors describe the structural alterations that occur in cartilage, articular disc, and surrounding tissues (capsule, ligaments, synovial membrane, bone, and muscles) during osteoarthrosis of the TMJ. The review explains that cartilage degeneration reduces the tissue's ability to handle mechanical stress and increases friction between joint surfaces, triggering compensatory responses in adjacent structures. These tissue changes are directly linked to common TMJ dysfunction symptoms including joint sounds (clicking, crepitation), movement limitations (locking, restricted motion), pain and tenderness, joint instability, deformity, muscle wasting, and bite changes.

THE EFFECT OF POROSITY OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE ON THE LUBRICATION OF A NORMAL HUMAN HIP JOINT.

DOI: 10.1243/PIME_PROC_1992_206_279_02 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:00:31
This study investigated how the porous structure of articular cartilage affects joint lubrication in the human hip during normal walking conditions. The researchers used mathematical modeling, combining poroelasticity equations for cartilage behavior with modified Reynolds equations for synovial fluid flow under squeeze-film motion conditions. The key finding was that cartilage porosity actually reduces lubricant film thickness rather than enhancing it, with this effect being most pronounced when the lubricant film becomes thin. The study also demonstrated that for practical lubrication modeling under normal walking conditions, articular cartilage can be simplified and treated as a single-phase incompressible elastic material rather than requiring complex porous modeling.

MOTION OF THE BIPOLAR HIP PROSTHESIS COMPONENTS. FRICTION STUDIED IN CADAVERS.

DOI: 10.1080/17453679209169728 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:00:25
This study aimed to determine where motion primarily occurs in bipolar hip prostheses and to measure friction at different bearing surfaces. The researchers used a pendulum apparatus to test bipolar and Austin-Moore prostheses in cadavers under various loading conditions, measuring friction coefficients at both inner and outer bearings. The key finding was that motion location depends on applied load - with light loads (10 kg), motion occurred at both bearings, but with heavier loads (>20 kg typical of normal walking), the outer bearing became the primary site of articulation. The results challenge the design assumption that bipolar prostheses protect acetabular cartilage, suggesting these devices cannot be expected to reduce cartilage wear during normal activities.

INVOLVEMENT OF CELLULAR METABOLISM OF CALCIUM AND PHOSPHATE IN CALCIFICATION OF AVIAN GROWTH PLATE CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1093/jn/123.suppl_2.301 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:00:20
This study aimed to understand how chondrocyte metabolism of calcium and phosphate contributes to cartilage calcification through matrix vesicle (MV) formation in avian growth plates. The researchers used laser confocal imaging with fluorescent calcium probes on living cartilage sections, along with direct chemical analysis and 31P-NMR spectroscopy on isolated cells to track cellular calcium handling and metabolic states. The findings revealed that growth plate chondrocytes actively accumulate calcium, concentrate it at the cell periphery, and release it as calcium-rich matrix vesicles, while simultaneously showing depleted ATP levels and elevated cytosolic phosphate - conditions that promote formation of calcifiable vesicles. The study also identified that annexins V and VI serve as calcium-binding proteins that may act as mechanical sensors, facilitating calcium entry into cells and matrix vesicles through interactions with extracellular matrix components like collagen and proteoglycans.

THE EFFECT OF GROWTH ON COLLAGEN AND GLYCOSAMINOGLYCANS IN THE ARTICULAR DISC OF THE RAT TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/0003-9969(93)90181-k · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:00:13
This study investigated how the composition of the temporomandibular joint disc changes during growth in rats aged 3-13 weeks. Researchers used radioactive tracers ([14C]glycine and [3H]glucosamine) in organ culture to track newly synthesized collagen and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), then separated these components using gel electrophoresis techniques. The findings showed that Type III collagen synthesis peaked at 7-8 weeks and strongly correlated with mandibular growth rate, while GAG synthesis (particularly hyaluronic acid, chondroitin-6-sulfate, and keratan sulfate) increased most dramatically between 5-7 weeks of age. The results suggest that during the rapid growth period (5-7 weeks), the disc exhibits more cartilage-like characteristics and undergoes active remodeling, providing important baseline data for understanding how mechanical stress and injury might affect disc development.

THE ROLE OF SYNOVIAL FLUID FILTRATION BY CARTILAGE IN LUBRICATION OF SYNOVIAL JOINTS--II. SQUEEZE-FILM LUBRICATION: HOMOGENEOUS FILTRATION.

DOI: 10.1016/0021-9290(93)90063-k · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:00:06
This study developed a mathematical model to understand how synovial fluid filtration through cartilage contributes to joint lubrication during squeeze-film conditions in the hip joint. The researchers used biphasic mixture models for both synovial fluid and cartilage, analyzing the filtration process when two cartilage surfaces approach each other under steady loading equivalent to half body weight. The model predicted that normal synovial fluid forms a stable gel layer approximately 0.1 microns thick when hyaluronic acid concentration reaches at least 50 mg/ml, with this thickness remaining relatively independent of loading forces. However, inflammatory synovial fluid produced significantly thinner protective layers, suggesting compromised lubrication in diseased joints.

ARTICULAR PHARMACOKINETICS OF PROTEIN-BOUND ANTIRHEUMATIC AGENTS.

DOI: 10.2165/00003088-199325040-00007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 19:00:01
This study investigated how protein-bound nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) move between blood plasma and joint fluid, and whether laboratory protein binding measurements predict drug transport into joints. The researchers analyzed plasma and synovial fluid data from 8 different NSAIDs across 10 studies in rheumatoid arthritis patients using a mathematical compartmental model that incorporated joint volume and blood flow rates. The key finding was that protein-bound NSAIDs readily enter synovial fluid at rates (0.23 min⁻¹) much faster than would be expected if only unbound drug could cross blood vessel walls. The authors concluded that NSAIDs rapidly bind and unbind from albumin during blood vessel transit, making bound drug effectively available for transport into joints and reducing the clinical relevance of static protein binding measurements performed in the laboratory.

PROTEOGLYCAN AND COLLAGEN ALTERATIONS IN CANINE KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE FOLLOWING 20 KM DAILY RUNNING EXERCISE FOR 15 WEEKS.

DOI: 10.3109/03008209409061971 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:59:53
This study investigated how intensive running exercise affects the biochemical composition of knee cartilage in young beagle dogs subjected to 20 km daily running for 15 weeks. The researchers analyzed water content, collagen, and proteoglycan levels at 11 different cartilage sites using biochemical assays and gel electrophoresis. The main findings showed that strenuous running caused site-specific degenerative changes, including increased water content (5-17%) and decreased collagen (14-20%) in the lateral femoral condyle, suggesting loosening of the cartilage structure. However, the exercise also stimulated protective responses, with larger proteoglycan molecules and increased capacity for proteoglycan aggregation, indicating enhanced cartilage repair mechanisms were simultaneously activated.

IN VITRO MEASUREMENT OF THE FRICTIONAL PROPERTIES OF THE TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DISC.

DOI: 10.1016/0003-9969(94)90124-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:59:47
This study aimed to investigate the frictional properties of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discs and understand how they maintain low friction during jaw movement. The researchers used a specialized pendulum device to measure friction on pig TMJ disc surfaces while testing different loading durations and hydration levels. The results showed that both loading duration and disc hydration significantly affected friction levels and how friction changed over time on the disc surface. These findings support the theory that TMJ discs use "weeping lubrication" - a mechanism where fluid is squeezed out of the tissue under load to reduce friction between moving joint surfaces.

CENTRIFUGAL AND BIOCHEMICAL COMPARISON OF PROTEOGLYCAN AGGREGATES FROM ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN EXPERIMENTAL JOINT DISUSE AND JOINT INSTABILITY.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100120406 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:59:42
This study compared how joint disuse versus joint instability affects cartilage structure by examining proteoglycan aggregates in greyhound dogs subjected to knee immobilization or anterior cruciate ligament transection. The researchers analyzed cartilage composition (water, proteoglycans, collagen) and used centrifugation techniques to separate and quantify different types of proteoglycan aggregates and hyaluronan content.

Both conditions reduced proteoglycan aggregates, but with important differences: joint disuse caused temporary changes that normalized by 8 weeks and preserved hyaluronan levels, while joint instability caused an 80% loss of hyaluronan and more extensive aggregate depletion that persisted. The preservation of hyaluronan and certain aggregate types after disuse may explain why disuse-related cartilage changes are reversible upon remobilization, whereas instability-induced changes are progressive and irreversible due to insufficient hyaluronan for proper matrix restoration.

CYTOSKELETON OF CARTILAGE CELLS.

DOI: 10.1002/jemt.1070280503 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:59:33
This study examines the structural components and functions of the cytoskeleton in cartilage cells (chondrocytes). The researchers analyzed three main cytoskeletal elements: actin microfilaments, tubulin microtubules, and intermediate filaments, comparing their presence and behavior in living tissue versus laboratory cell cultures. Key findings show that actin filaments are minimal in living cartilage but become prominent in cell culture where they help determine cell shape and maintain cartilage-forming characteristics, while microtubules organize cellular components and support the production of collagen and proteoglycans. The study also found that intermediate filaments (including vimentin, cytokeratins, and glial fibrillary acidic protein) vary throughout different cartilage layers and increase with mechanical loading, suggesting the cytoskeleton acts as a sensing system that allows cartilage cells to detect and respond to physical forces in their environment.

EXERCISE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE KNEE AND HIP.

DOI: 10.1002/art.1790070407 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:59:26
This review examines the role of exercise as a conservative treatment approach for knee and hip osteoarthritis (OA). The authors provide a comprehensive overview of OA pathophysiology, explaining how cartilage deterioration and bone changes lead to increased joint friction and reduced shock absorption. The study emphasizes that clinical diagnosis relies primarily on pain and movement limitations rather than radiographic findings, as imaging results don't clearly correlate with patient symptoms or functional capacity. The review challenges the traditional view that OA is unresponsive to conservative treatment, highlighting the growing recognition of exercise interventions in managing this condition that significantly impacts patients' quality of life and healthcare costs.

MARKERS OF CARTILAGE MATRIX METABOLISM IN HUMAN JOINT FLUID AND SERUM: THE EFFECT OF EXERCISE.

DOI: 10.1016/s1063-4584(05)80033-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:59:19
This study investigated how exercise affects biochemical markers of cartilage breakdown and formation in healthy athletes by measuring specific proteins and molecules in knee joint fluid and blood. The researchers collected samples from 33 athletes before and after different types of exercise (treadmill running, road running, or soccer) and compared them to a reference group of 28 patients with knee pain but no joint damage. The main findings showed that while individual markers of cartilage degradation in joint fluid did not significantly increase after exercise, they all showed upward trends, and athletes generally had lower baseline levels of these markers compared to the reference group. Additionally, runners had significantly higher levels of keratan sulfate (a cartilage component) in their blood both before and after exercise, suggesting that intense physical activity may increase cartilage turnover through mechanical loading effects.

MICROVASCULAR ARCHITECTURE AND EXCHANGE IN SYNOVIAL JOINTS.

DOI: 10.3109/10739689509146768 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:59:13
This study examined how the blood vessel network in synovial joints is specially adapted to nourish cartilage and produce joint fluid. The researchers used experimental methods to investigate fluid exchange mechanisms between blood capillaries and the joint cavity, focusing on the role of pressure gradients and the tissue barriers involved. Key findings revealed that the synovial microcirculation has a unique arrangement of fenestrated (porous) capillaries positioned very close to the joint surface, which helps overcome the challenge of supplying nutrients to cartilage cells that can be over 1 cm away from the nearest blood vessel. The study also discovered that joint movement creates convective flow of synovial fluid that efficiently transports glucose to cartilage, and that fluid can simultaneously move into and out of the joint cavity in different regions, creating fluid turnover essential for joint health.

THE ROLE OF SYNOVIAL FLUID FILTRATION BY CARTILAGE IN LUBRICATION OF SYNOVIAL JOINTS--III. SQUEEZE-FILM LUBRICATION: AXIAL SYMMETRY UNDER LOW LOADING CONDITIONS.

DOI: 10.1016/0021-9290(94)00180-c · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:59:05
This study investigated how synovial fluid filtration through cartilage contributes to joint lubrication during compression of cartilage surfaces. The researchers used a mathematical mixture model that treats synovial fluid as two incompressible components (ideal and viscous fluids) and applied biphasic cartilage theory to simulate axially symmetric cartilage surfaces under low loads, solving the equations numerically.

The key findings showed that when load is applied, a shallow pocket-like synovial film forms quickly, with fluid pressure patterns similar to dry contact conditions. The ideal fluid component is squeezed into cartilage at the center and out at the periphery, while hyaluronic acid concentration increases up to 20-fold at the film center, forming a gel that spreads outward over time. This gel formation process initially occurs rapidly but then slows down, creating a protective lubricating layer with thickness that decreases gradually with increasing radial distance from the contact center.

THE ROLE OF SYNOVIAL FLUID FILTRATION BY CARTILAGE IN LUBRICATION OF SYNOVIAL JOINTS--IV. SQUEEZE-FILM LUBRICATION: THE CENTRAL FILM THICKNESS FOR NORMAL AND INFLAMMATORY SYNOVIAL FLUIDS FOR AXIAL SYMMETRY UNDER HIGH LOADING CONDITIONS.

DOI: 10.1016/0021-9290(94)00178-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:58:57
This study investigated how synovial fluid filters through cartilage to form protective lubricating films in joints under high compressive loads, particularly in the hip joint. The researchers developed a mathematical model to solve the complex problem of fluid filtration and gel formation when cartilage surfaces are squeezed together, using ordinary differential equations to analyze the central film thickness. The key finding was that normal synovial fluid maintains a protective gel film of approximately 1 micron thickness that remains relatively stable across different physiological conditions, while inflammatory synovial fluid produces films at least 10 times thinner. The stress analysis results help explain why osteoarthritic joints develop characteristic vertical cracks at the cartilage surface and horizontal splits at deeper levels.

MORPHOMECHANICS OF THE HUMERO-ULNAR JOINT: II. CONCAVE INCONGRUITY DETERMINES THE DISTRIBUTION OF LOAD AND SUBCHONDRAL MINERALIZATION.

DOI: 10.1002/ar.1092430307 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:58:51
This study investigated how the naturally occurring concave shape mismatch (incongruity) in the elbow joint affects load distribution and bone density patterns beneath the cartilage. The researchers used finite element computer modeling to compare congruent (perfectly matched) versus incongruent joint shapes, and measured subchondral bone density using CT scanning in six elbow specimens. The key finding was that incongruent joints showed a distinctive two-peaked (bicentric) bone density pattern that matched the computer model predictions, whereas congruent joints would produce a single central peak. The authors conclude that this natural incongruity beneficially distributes stress more evenly across the joint surface and may improve cartilage health through better mechanical stimulation and nutrition.

THE CHONDROCYTE, ARCHITECT OF CARTILAGE. BIOMECHANICS, STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY OF CARTILAGE MATRIX MACROMOLECULES.

DOI: 10.1002/bies.950171208 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:58:43
This review examines how chondrocytes function as the primary architects of cartilage by producing and maintaining the extracellular matrix that enables cartilage to withstand high compressive loads. The authors discuss the molecular structure and function of key cartilage components including collagen, aggrecan proteoglycan, and hyaluronan, analyzing how genetic mutations in these molecules affect their normal functions and contribute to skeletal developmental disorders. The study reveals that cartilage's mechanical properties stem from the physicochemical interactions between these matrix macromolecules and the movement of water and ions within the tissue. The authors emphasize that understanding chondrocyte biology and cartilage matrix composition is crucial for comprehending osteoarthritis, the most common joint disease, though they note that correlations between genetic mutations and clinical outcomes can be complex due to compensatory mechanisms.

THE INFLUENCE OF LOADING TIME AND LUBRICANT ON THE FRICTION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1243/PIME_PROC_1996_210_399_02 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:58:36
This study investigated how loading time and different lubricants affect friction in articular cartilage under various contact conditions (cartilage-on-metal, metal-on-cartilage, and cartilage-on-cartilage). The researchers measured friction coefficients after applying stationary loads for periods ranging from 5 seconds to 45 minutes, using synovial fluid, Ringer's solution, or no lubricant in a mixed lubrication regime. The main finding was that friction increased gradually with longer loading times, reaching approximately 0.3 after 45 minutes for all contact types, but dropped sharply when loads were briefly removed and reapplied. The results highlight that fluid flow within cartilage's biphasic structure is crucial for maintaining low friction, with synovial fluid providing superior boundary lubrication compared to Ringer's solution, particularly for cartilage-on-cartilage contacts.

FRICTION OF COMPOSITE CUSHION BEARINGS FOR TOTAL KNEE JOINT REPLACEMENTS UNDER ADVERSE LUBRICATION CONDITIONS.

DOI: 10.1243/0954411981534574 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:58:30
This study investigated the friction performance of composite cushion bearings for knee replacements under challenging lubrication conditions that occur during daily activities. The researchers used a pendulum simulator to test a model bearing made from graded polyurethane (20-1000 MPa stiffness) sliding against polished metal, examining various adverse conditions including severe cyclic loading, reduced sliding speeds, shorter stroke lengths, and start-up after static loading periods. The results showed that these adverse conditions—which represent 95% of daily activities when people are standing still or moving slowly—caused fluid film breakdown and led to elevated friction and surface damage. The findings suggest that soft layer joint replacements need to be designed with thick protective fluid films or alternative lubrication mechanisms to prevent wear under real-world conditions.

HISTOLOGIC COMPARISON OF TIBIAL ARTICULAR SURFACES AGAINST RIGID MATERIALS AND ARTIFICIAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1097-4636(199710)37:13.0.co;2-i · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:58:23
This study aimed to compare how different types of femoral implant materials affect the opposing tibial joint surfaces over time in a dog model. The researchers implanted three different types of femoral prostheses (including hard materials like ceramic and metal, plus an artificial articular cartilage) and examined the histological changes in the tibial cartilage and menisci under loading conditions. The key finding was that hard material implants caused significant damage to the menisci and tibial cartilage as early as 8 weeks post-implantation, while the artificial cartilage implant preserved the tibial joint surface integrity even at 24 weeks. The study demonstrates that rigid prosthetic materials cause cartilage damage due to their surface properties and high friction coefficients, supporting the potential benefits of more cartilage-like implant materials.

EFFECTS OF TRIAMCINOLONE ACETONIDE ON AN IN VIVO EQUINE OSTEOCHONDRAL FRAGMENT EXERCISE MODEL.

DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1997.tb03138.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:58:17
This study investigated whether intra-articular triamcinolone acetonide (TA) injections could improve outcomes in horses with cartilage and bone fragments in their joints. Researchers created osteochondral fragments in 18 horses divided into three groups, then treated them with either TA injections or placebo, followed by 6 weeks of high-speed treadmill exercise. Horses receiving TA treatment directly into the affected joint showed significantly less lameness compared to control groups, along with improved synovial fluid composition (lower protein, higher beneficial molecules like hyaluronan). Additionally, both direct and remote TA treatment resulted in less joint inflammation, reduced tissue scarring, and better cartilage structure compared to placebo treatment, suggesting TA injections may be beneficial for treating joint fragments and arthritis in horses.

THE INFLUENCE OF ARTICULAR SURFACE INCONGRUITY ON LUBRICATION AND CONTACT PRESSURE DISTRIBUTION OF LOADED SYNOVIAL JOINTS.

DOI: 10.1243/0954411981533782 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:58:11
This study investigated how variations in joint surface shape affect lubrication and pressure distribution in synovial joints during short-term loading. The researchers used a biomechanical model of the ankle joint that treated cartilage as incompressible elastic material lubricated by synovial fluid, examining both central and eccentric loading conditions with steady sliding motion. The key findings showed that individual differences in joint surface geometry had minimal impact on contact stress distribution and fluid film thickness, regardless of whether loads were applied centrally or eccentrically. The authors suggest that these different loading patterns (central versus eccentric) in incongruent joints may explain the varying patterns of bone mineralization observed beneath joint surfaces.

ADAPTIVE MULTIMODE LUBRICATION IN NATURAL SYNOVIAL JOINTS AND ARTIFICIAL JOINTS.

DOI: 10.1243/0954411981533791 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:58:05
This study investigated lubrication mechanisms in natural synovial joints and artificial joint systems to understand how different factors affect friction during joint movement. The researchers used pendulum tests on pig shoulder joints and simulator tests with knee joint models consisting of stainless steel components paired with either natural pig cartilage or synthetic polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel, testing various loads and lubricant conditions.

Key findings showed that hyaluronic acid concentration, protein films, and phospholipids all significantly influenced friction, with high loads (similar to body weight) producing low friction across different viscosity conditions due to enhanced squeeze film effects from improved surface contact. For both natural cartilage and artificial materials, adding gamma-globulin protein to hyaluronic acid solutions maintained low friction and protected surfaces during thin film lubrication conditions, supporting the concept of adaptive multimode lubrication where joints automatically adjust their lubrication strategy based on operating conditions.

LOADING-INDUCED CHANGES IN SYNOVIAL FLUID AFFECT CARTILAGE METABOLISM.

DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/37.6.671 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:57:59
This study investigated whether exercise-induced changes in synovial fluid could directly influence cartilage cell metabolism. Researchers collected synovial fluid from ponies before and after a week of exercise following box rest, then cultured normal cartilage samples in these fluids for 4 days to measure glycosaminoglycan (GAG) turnover as an indicator of cartilage metabolism. Cartilage cultured in post-exercise synovial fluid showed increased GAG synthesis and decreased GAG breakdown compared to pre-exercise fluid, with higher levels of insulin-like growth factors (IGF-I and IGF-II) detected in the post-exercise samples. The findings demonstrate that mechanical loading benefits cartilage health partly through biochemical changes in synovial fluid composition rather than direct mechanical stimulation alone.

INVESTIGATION INTO THE EFFECT OF PROTEOGLYCAN MOLECULES ON THE TRIBOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF CARTILAGE JOINT TISSUES.

DOI: 10.1243/0954411981533953 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:57:53
This study investigated how proteoglycan molecules and their water-attracting properties affect the lubrication and friction characteristics of joint tissues. The researchers tested bovine articular cartilage, meniscus, and cartilage treated to remove chondroitin sulfate from proteoglycans using friction and compression tests under different stress conditions (0.5-4 MPa for friction, 0.8 MPa for compression).

The compression tests showed that removing chondroitin sulfate caused cartilage to deform faster and reach equilibrium more quickly, while meniscus had higher friction that increased more rapidly over time compared to normal cartilage. Surprisingly, despite the significant changes in compression behavior when proteoglycans were degraded, the friction properties of cartilage remained virtually unchanged, suggesting that proteoglycan content affects load-bearing capacity but not lubrication performance.

PHYSICAL MECHANISMS INVOLVED IN THE GENESIS OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT SOUNDS.

DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2842.1998.00278.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:57:47
This study aimed to establish a theoretical framework for identifying the underlying physical mechanisms responsible for different types of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sounds. The researchers used analogical reasoning and acoustic analysis principles to characterize the sound signatures produced by various mechanisms including impact, friction types, fluid dynamics, and elastic strain energy release. The study proposed that different TMJ sounds have distinct acoustic signatures: single short clicks result from impact mechanisms, multiple short creaks arise from stick-slip friction and structural defects, while longer-duration crepitus sounds are caused by simple sliding friction. The framework suggests that clinically significant TMJ sounds can be distinguished from benign sounds by analyzing their acoustic characteristics in relation to jaw movement parameters like speed and loading.

REHABILITATION FOLLOWING SURGICAL PROCEDURES TO ADDRESS ARTICULAR CARTILAGE LESIONS IN THE KNEE.

DOI: 10.2519/jospt.1998.28.4.232 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:57:41
This review article aimed to provide rehabilitation guidelines for knee articular cartilage lesions following surgical intervention, based on cartilage structure and function principles. The authors conducted a narrative review examining cartilage biomechanics, common surgical procedures, and evidence-based rehabilitation approaches. Key findings indicate that controlled compressive loading promotes cartilage healing while excessive shear forces are detrimental, leading to recommendations for protected weight-bearing periods followed by progressive loading, controlled range of motion exercises, and muscle strengthening that minimizes joint shear stress. The review emphasizes that rehabilitation protocols must account for cartilage's limited regenerative capacity due to its avascular nature and dependence on synovial fluid for nutrition.

EXERCISE PROTECTS AGAINST ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEGENERATION IN THE HAMSTER.

DOI: 10.1002/1529-0131(199811)41:113.0.CO;2-L · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:57:35
This study investigated whether exercise could prevent cartilage breakdown in hamsters, which naturally develop osteoarthritis-like changes. Researchers compared young hamsters with older hamsters that either exercised daily on running wheels (6-12 km/day) or remained sedentary for 3 months, using scanning electron microscopy to assess cartilage surface damage and biochemical analysis to measure cartilage and synovial fluid composition. The sedentary hamsters developed significant cartilage surface damage (fibrillation, pitting, and fissures) along with reduced proteoglycan content in cartilage and decreased synovial fluid volume, while exercised hamsters maintained smooth, healthy cartilage surfaces similar to young controls. These findings demonstrate that regular exercise protects against early cartilage degeneration by preserving normal cartilage structure and biochemical composition.

INVESTIGATION INTO THE EFFECTS OF PROTEINS AND LIPIDS ON THE FRICTIONAL PROPERTIES OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/s0142-9612(98)00147-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:57:29
This study investigated how surface proteins and lipids affect the friction properties of articular cartilage under different lubrication conditions. The researchers used bovine cartilage samples that were treated to selectively remove either lipids (with detergent) or proteins (with trypsin), then tested friction using a sliding rig under two contact pressures (0.5 and 4 MPa) at various loading times. At high pressure (4 MPa), removing either lipids or proteins caused slight increases in friction that were not statistically significant. At low pressure (0.5 MPa), lipid removal increased friction during short loading times, while protein removal reduced friction during longer loading times, suggesting that lipids and proteins contribute differently to cartilage lubrication depending on the mechanical conditions and time scale.

HYALURONIC ACID-BASED POLYMERS AS CELL CARRIERS FOR TISSUE-ENGINEERED REPAIR OF BONE AND CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100170209 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:57:23
This study evaluated hyaluronic acid-based polymers (HYAFF 11 and ACP sponges) as delivery vehicles for mesenchymal stem cells in bone and cartilage tissue engineering applications. The researchers tested cell binding capacity in vitro, examined material properties using scanning electron microscopy, and assessed bone and cartilage formation after subcutaneous implantation in nude mice for 3-6 weeks, comparing results to standard calcium phosphate ceramic controls. HYAFF 11 sponges bound significantly more cells than ceramic controls (90% more, or 130% more when fibronectin-coated) and produced 30% more bone and cartilage tissue per unit area after implantation. The study demonstrates that hyaluronic acid-based materials, particularly HYAFF 11, offer superior cell loading capacity and tissue formation compared to traditional ceramic scaffolds, with the added advantage of complete biodegradation and replacement by newly formed tissue.

STUDIES ON THE KINETICS, METABOLISM AND RE-UTILISATION AFTER INTRA-ARTICULAR ADMINISTRATION OF HYALURONAN TO RABBITS.

DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1300438 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:57:16
This study investigated the fate of hyaluronan (HA) after injection into rabbit knee joints to understand how this common arthritis treatment is processed by the body. Researchers injected radioactively-labeled HA (2,000 kDa molecular weight) into rabbit knees and tracked its movement into blood circulation, while analyzing tissue samples at 24 and 72 hours using gel filtration chromatography to measure molecular weight changes. The results showed that injected HA moves from the joint into systemic circulation following predictable kinetics, with the large HA molecules gradually breaking down into smaller fragments over time—remaining mostly intact in synovial fluid but degrading to smaller sizes in synovial membrane and cartilage. The study also demonstrated that HA is ultimately metabolized into basic carbon units and recycled for use in other biological processes throughout the body.

COMPOSITION OF THE EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX IN HUMAN CRICOARYTENOID JOINT ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1679/aohc.62.149 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:57:09
This study aimed to characterize the extracellular matrix composition of human cricoarytenoid joint cartilage, which had not been thoroughly analyzed despite its involvement in various diseases. The researchers used multiple microscopy techniques (light, immunohistochemistry, transmission and scanning electron microscopy) to examine the cartilage structure and compared findings with limb joint cartilage. The analysis revealed that cricoarytenoid cartilage contains similar components to limb joints (various collagen types and sulfated glycosaminoglycans) but shows unique features, including a distinctive distribution of type III collagen and different collagen fiber alignment patterns adapted to the specific movement patterns of the laryngeal joint. A key finding was the presence of type III collagen in the superficial cartilage layer, which has not been demonstrated in limb joint cartilage and may represent a unique structural adaptation of this specialized joint.

THE INFLUENCE OF CONTINUOUS SLIDING AND SUBSEQUENT SURFACE WEAR ON THE FRICTION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1243/0954411991535167 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:57:02
This study investigated how continuous sliding motion and surface wear affect the friction properties of articular cartilage. The researchers conducted friction tests using cartilage-on-metal contacts under constant load, comparing initial and repeat friction measurements, and used laser profilometry and electron microscopy to assess surface changes and structure.

The key finding was that while surface wear did occur (surface roughness increased from 0.8 to 2.1 microns) and modestly increased friction coefficients in repeat tests, loading time was the primary factor controlling friction. Friction coefficients increased dramatically over 120 minutes, rising from 0.005 after 5 seconds to 0.50-0.57, with synovial fluid providing significantly better lubrication than Ringer's solution.

The authors concluded that fluid phase load carriage within cartilage (biphasic lubrication) is the dominant mechanism responsible for low friction, rather than surface wear effects. They also identified two distinct surface layers - a phospholipid/glycoprotein boundary layer for lubrication and a surface lamina that prevents collagen fiber damage - both of which may contribute to cartilage's time-dependent frictional behavior.

THE SURFACE CONTOUR OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN AN INTACT, LOADED JOINT.

DOI: 10.1046/j.1469-7580.1999.19510045.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:56:55
This study aimed to examine the ultrastructure of articular cartilage surfaces in intact, loaded joints to better understand joint lubrication mechanisms. The researchers loaded 24 rabbit knee joints either statically or with simulated muscle forces, then rapidly froze them under load and used specialized fixation techniques to preserve the joint surfaces for light and electron microscopy while maintaining their articulated state. The key findings showed that loaded joint surfaces were remarkably smooth at all magnification levels (35x to 7,500x), with a uniform 100 nm fluid-filled space separating the cartilage surfaces, and an electron-dense surface layer that was thicker and flatter under load compared to previous reports from unloaded specimens. These results support the presence of fluid film lubrication in joints but do not show evidence for the fluid sequestration mechanisms proposed in some theoretical lubrication models.

LUBRICATION OF THE HUMAN ANKLE JOINT IN WALKING WITH THE SYNOVIAL FLUID FILTRATED BY THE CARTILAGE WITH THE SURFACE ZONE WORN OUT: STEADY PURE SLIDING MOTION.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(99)00095-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:56:48
This study investigated how worn cartilage surfaces affect ankle joint lubrication during walking by modeling synovial fluid filtration through damaged cartilage. The researchers used a biphasic mixture model that treats cartilage as an elastic porous matrix with fluid and synovial fluid as a two-phase system, specifically examining steady sliding motion when the cartilage surface zone is worn away.

The key finding was that worn cartilage dramatically alters lubrication mechanics compared to healthy cartilage - while normal cartilage maintains a continuous 1-micrometer thick synovial fluid film during walking, worn cartilage allows intensive fluid filtration that prevents continuous film formation. Instead, only a very thin synovial gel layer (about 10 nanometers thick) develops over most of the joint contact area.

These results suggest that when ankle cartilage surface zones are damaged, the joint shifts from fluid-film lubrication to boundary lubrication during normal walking activities.

THE EFFECT OF MECHANICAL STRAIN ON HYALURONAN METABOLISM IN EMBRYONIC FIBROCARTILAGE CELLS.

DOI: 10.1016/s0945-053x(99)00044-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:56:41
This study investigated how mechanical strain affects hyaluronan (HA) metabolism in embryonic fibrocartilage cells to understand joint cavity formation during development. The researchers applied 10 minutes of mechanical strain to cultured cells from chick embryo tibial condyles and measured HA release, enzyme activity, protein expression, and gene expression over 24 hours. The main findings showed that mechanical strain significantly increased HA production and release into culture media, enhanced the activity of enzymes needed for HA synthesis, and upregulated expression of HA-binding proteins like CD44. Additionally, strain induced differential expression of HA synthase genes, with HA synthase 3 only appearing in mechanically stimulated cells, suggesting that movement-induced mechanical forces play a crucial role in joint development by regulating HA metabolism.

FINITE ELEMENT MODELING OF THE CERVICAL SPINE: ROLE OF INTERVERTEBRAL DISC UNDER AXIAL AND ECCENTRIC LOADS.

DOI: 10.1016/s1350-4533(00)00002-3 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:56:35
This study aimed to investigate how intervertebral discs distribute forces across different regions when the cervical spine is loaded under various conditions. Researchers created a detailed 3D finite element computer model of the cervical spine using CT scans and anatomical sections, including all major bone structures, discs, joints, and ligaments, then validated it against experimental force and strain measurements. The model revealed that axial forces were consistently higher than shear forces throughout the disc under all loading conditions, with the front (ventral) region of the disc experiencing the greatest variation in axial forces while the back (dorsal) region transmitted higher shear forces. These findings provide new insights into how cervical discs mechanically function and may help clinicians better understand disc-related pathologies and treatment approaches.

DEVELOPMENT OF ARTIFICIAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1243/0954411001535246 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:56:29
This study aimed to develop and evaluate polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel (PVA-H) as an artificial articular cartilage material by comparing its biomechanical properties to existing materials and testing its biocompatibility. The researchers improved PVA-H synthesis, measured its lubrication properties and stress transmission characteristics against polyethylene, conducted histological analysis of implanted material over 8-52 weeks, and tested femoral surface replacements in dogs using PVA-H attached to titanium fiber mesh. Key findings showed that PVA-H maintained thicker fluid films under pressure and provided better shock absorption than polyethylene, though with higher wear rates, and demonstrated excellent biocompatibility with no inflammatory response in tissue studies. In the dog model, PVA-H composite implants caused minimal damage to opposing cartilage surfaces compared to hard materials like alumina and titanium, while successfully integrating with host bone through the supporting mesh.

ARTIFICIAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: MECHANOELECTRICAL TRANSDUCTION UNDER DYNAMIC COMPRESSIVE LOADING.

DOI: 10.1046/j.1525-1594.2000.06538.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:56:15
This study aimed to develop hydrogel biomaterials that could serve as artificial articular cartilage by mimicking the natural mechanoelectrical properties of healthy cartilage. The researchers created hydrogels by combining 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate with acrylic acid to incorporate negatively charged groups into the material structure, then tested these materials under dynamic compression to measure electrical responses. The key finding was that these synthetic hydrogels successfully demonstrated mechanoelectrical transduction when compressed, with stronger electrical signals corresponding to higher concentrations of fixed negative charges in the material. This mechanoelectrical response is important because it mimics how natural cartilage generates electrical signals under mechanical stress, which is believed to regulate cartilage cell activity and tissue repair processes.

THE INFLUENCE OF THE ACETABULAR LABRUM ON HIP JOINT CARTILAGE CONSOLIDATION: A POROELASTIC FINITE ELEMENT MODEL.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(00)00042-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:56:05
This study investigated how the acetabular labrum affects cartilage mechanics in the hip joint during prolonged loading. The researchers used a poroelastic finite element model simulating a cross-section through the hip joint cartilage and labrum, analyzing the response to extended loading (10,000 seconds) to mimic daily joint compression. The model showed that the labrum plays a crucial protective role by slowing cartilage fluid loss (consolidation was 40% faster without the labrum) and significantly reducing harmful contact stresses between cartilage surfaces (up to 92% higher stresses when labrum was absent). These findings suggest the labrum is essential for maintaining healthy cartilage function by preserving joint lubrication, reducing wear-inducing friction, and providing structural stability to prevent joint damage.

CONCLUSIONS REGARDING THE INFLUENCE OF EXERCISE ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE EQUINE MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO OSTEOCHONDROSIS.

DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1999.tb05323.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:55:59
This large-scale study investigated how different exercise regimens affect musculoskeletal development and osteochondrosis (OC) in 43 genetically predisposed foals up to 5-11 months of age. The researchers compared three groups (box-rest, box-rest with training, and free pasture exercise) using comprehensive methods including clinical monitoring, radiography, gait analysis, tissue biopsies, and post-mortem examination of bones, cartilage, tendons, and muscles.

The study found that osteochondrosis is a dynamic process where lesions can both develop and spontaneously regress during critical "windows of susceptibility," with exercise affecting lesion distribution within joints but not overall lesion numbers. Box-rest delayed normal musculoskeletal development (evident in bone density, tissue composition, and gait), with most effects reversible except for some permanent changes in cartilage collagen, while high-intensity training had lasting negative effects on cartilage cell viability and other tissues.

The researchers concluded that the early post-natal period represents a critical window where the equine musculoskeletal system is vulnerable to developmental problems but retains high regenerative capacity, making appropriate exercise a potentially powerful tool for enhancing long-term injury resistance.

SYNOVIAL FLUID CHONDROITIN SULPHATE EPITOPES 3B3 AND 7D4, AND GLYCOSAMINOGLYCAN IN HUMAN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS AFTER EXERCISE.

DOI: 10.1136/ard.59.11.887 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:55:50
This study investigated whether walking exercise worsens cartilage breakdown in knee osteoarthritis patients by measuring cartilage degradation markers in synovial fluid. Thirty elderly patients with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis were randomly divided into exercise and control groups, with synovial fluid analyzed before and after 12 weeks using specialized assays to detect chondroitin sulfate fragments (3B3 and 7D4 epitopes) and total glycosaminoglycans. The results showed no significant changes in any cartilage breakdown markers between the exercise and control groups after 12 weeks, though age-related declines in some markers were observed. The findings suggest that a 12-week walking program does not accelerate cartilage degradation in patients with knee osteoarthritis, supporting the safety of this exercise intervention.

PRIMARY CHONDROCYTES RESIST HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE-INDUCED STRESS WHILE PRIMARY SYNOVIAL CELLS AND FIBROBLASTS SHOW MODIFIED HSP70 RESPONSE.

DOI: 10.1053/joca.2000.0354 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:55:43
This study investigated how different cell types respond to hydrostatic pressure through heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) expression to understand cellular adaptation to joint loading conditions. The researchers used Northern blotting, Western blotting, and gel mobility shift assays to analyze HSP70 mRNA and protein levels in primary bovine chondrocytes, synovial cells, and human fibroblasts exposed to hydrostatic pressure or heat stress. The key finding was that chondrocytes, which are naturally adapted to high-pressure environments in cartilage, showed minimal HSP70 response to pressure, while synovial cells and fibroblasts significantly increased HSP70 expression when subjected to the same conditions. The authors suggest that HSP70 response to hydrostatic pressure could serve as a marker of chondrocyte phenotype, potentially useful for evaluating cartilage repair treatments.

INTRA-ARTICULAR PRESSURE PROFILES OF THE CADAVERIC EQUINE FETLOCK JOINT IN MOTION.

DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2001.tb00599.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:55:38
This study investigated how joint motion and elevated pressure affect intra-articular pressure patterns in horse fetlock joints using cadaver specimens. The researchers tested 11 equine fetlock joints at two motion frequencies (5 and 10 cycles/min) under both normal pressure (-5 mmHg) and elevated pressure (30 mmHg) conditions, measuring pressure changes over 15-minute periods.

The key findings showed that higher initial pressures and faster motion led to greater pressure loss over time (up to 29%), with peak pressures exceeding 100 mmHg during flexion when starting pressure was elevated to 30 mmHg. The study demonstrated that elevated joint pressures, commonly seen in diseased joints, can reach levels during motion that may cause intermittent loss of blood supply to joint tissues, potentially contributing to cartilage damage in clinical cases.

INTRA-ARTICULAR HYALURONIC ACID FOLLOWING KNEE IMMOBILISATION FOR 6 WEEKS IN RABBITS.

DOI: 10.1007/s100670170078 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:55:31
This study investigated whether intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) injections could improve cartilage recovery after prolonged joint immobilization in rabbits. Thirty-two rabbits had one knee immobilized for 6 weeks, then were remobilized with either weekly HA injections (n=16) or no treatment (n=16) for another 6 weeks, followed by analysis of cartilage degeneration area, water content, and proteoglycan levels. The results showed that HA-treated knees had significantly less degenerated joint surface area and higher cartilage glycosaminoglycan content compared to untreated remobilized knees. The authors concluded that 6 weeks of remobilization alone was insufficient for cartilage recovery, but HA injections produced more normal cartilage structure and biochemistry, though they recommended further research before clinical application.

EFFECTS OF HIGH MOLECULAR WEIGHT HYALURONAN ON THE DISTRIBUTION AND MOVEMENT OF PROTEOGLYCAN AROUND CHONDROCYTES CULTURED IN ALGINATE BEADS.

DOI: 10.1053/joca.2000.0395 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:55:25
This study investigated how high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HA) affects the distribution and movement of proteoglycans produced by cartilage cells. The researchers cultured rabbit cartilage cells in alginate beads with and without added HA, then used radioactive sulfate labeling, immunohistochemistry, and autoradiography to track proteoglycan synthesis and distribution in two zones: the cell-associated matrix (CM) close to cells and the further-removed matrix (FRM). The key finding was that HA caused proteoglycans to move away from cells - decreasing proteoglycan accumulation in the immediate cell vicinity while increasing it in the more distant matrix regions. This suggests that HA promotes the diffusion of newly-made proteoglycans away from cartilage cells, which could have important implications for cartilage repair and the therapeutic use of HA injections.

STRONG HYALURONAN EXPRESSION IN THE FULL-THICKNESS RAT ARTICULAR CARTILAGE REPAIR TISSUE.

DOI: 10.1007/s004180100265 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:55:19
This study investigated the distribution of hyaluronan (a key cartilage component) during cartilage repair in rats to better understand the healing process. Researchers created full-thickness cartilage defects in rat knee joints and compared two groups - one with free cage movement and another with programmed running exercise - examining the repair tissue at 4 and 8 weeks using histological staining techniques. The main finding was that hyaluronan showed remarkably strong expression throughout the repair tissue, particularly in areas where mesenchymal stem cells were invading from bone marrow and around enlarged cartilage cells undergoing bone formation. This strong hyaluronan staining pattern appears to be a sensitive marker for detecting abnormal cartilage structure during the repair process, though exercise training did not significantly improve healing outcomes.

OSCILLATING FLUID FLOW REGULATES CYTOSOLIC CALCIUM CONCENTRATION IN BOVINE ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(00)00158-5 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:55:12
This study investigated how oscillating fluid flow affects calcium signaling in cartilage cells (chondrocytes), since mechanical loading of cartilage creates oscillatory rather than steady fluid flow patterns. The researchers exposed bovine articular chondrocytes to different patterns of fluid flow (steady vs. oscillating at 0.5, 1, or 5 Hz) at various flow rates in a specialized flow chamber, measuring intracellular calcium concentration changes using fluorescent imaging. The key findings showed that chondrocytes respond to oscillating fluid flow with increased calcium levels, with stronger responses occurring at higher flow rates and lower frequencies, and that the presence of serum enhanced these cellular responses. These results suggest that the oscillatory nature of fluid flow during joint loading plays an important role in how cartilage cells sense and respond to mechanical stimulation.

PHOSPHOLIPID COMPOSITION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE BOUNDARY LUBRICANT.

DOI: 10.1016/S0736-0266(00)00064-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:55:06
This study aimed to identify and characterize the specific phospholipid molecules that form the boundary lubricating layer on normal human articular cartilage surfaces under high-load conditions. The researchers extracted phospholipids from cartilage surfaces and analyzed them using multiple techniques including chromatography, mass spectrometry, phosphate assays, and gas chromatography to determine both the types and quantities of lipids present. The analysis revealed that the boundary lubricant consists primarily of three phospholipid types: phosphatidylcholine (41%), sphingomyelin (32%), and phosphatidylethanolamine (27%), with each containing predominantly unsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid. These findings provide important baseline data for understanding normal joint lubrication mechanisms and could inform future treatments for joint diseases involving lubrication failure.

MOLECULAR BASIS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS: BIOMECHANICAL ASPECTS.

DOI: 10.1007/s00018-002-8402-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:55:00
This review examines the biomechanical changes in cartilage during osteoarthritis and aging to understand whether mechanical deterioration causes or results from disease onset. The authors analyze physical cartilage changes due to aging, disease, and mechanical loading, focusing on age-related collagen cross-linking through nonenzymatic glycation and chondrocyte responses to different loading conditions. Key findings highlight that while healthy cartilage maintains excellent force transmission and low-friction movement, osteoarthritis compromises these properties, though the causal relationship remains unclear. The review also reveals important differences in biomechanical properties and matrix synthesis between knee and ankle cartilage, which may explain why ankles are less susceptible to progressive osteoarthritis than knees.

THE CANINE 'GROOVE' MODEL, COMPARED WITH THE ACLT MODEL OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1053/joca.2001.0491 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:54:55
This study compared a new "groove" model of osteoarthritis in dogs with the established anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) model to evaluate cartilage damage without causing joint instability. Researchers created grooves in the cartilage of weight-bearing areas of femoral condyles in ten beagle dogs, followed by 10 weeks of intensified joint loading, then analyzed the resulting damage using histological and biochemical methods. The groove model produced osteoarthritis-like changes including chondrocyte clustering, proteoglycan loss, altered matrix turnover, collagen damage, and increased synovial fluid enzyme activity that were similar to those seen in the ACLT model. The groove model offers an alternative approach to studying osteoarthritis that may be more responsive to treatment interventions since it avoids the permanent joint instability created by ligament transection.

TREATMENT OF OSTEOCHONDRAL DEFECTS WITH AUTOLOGOUS BONE MARROW IN A HYALURONAN-BASED DELIVERY VEHICLE.

DOI: 10.1089/107632702753725085 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:54:49
This study investigated whether adding autologous bone marrow to a hyaluronan-based scaffold would improve repair of cartilage and bone defects compared to the scaffold alone. The researchers created 3-mm diameter osteochondral defects in 33 rabbits and treated them with either a fibronectin-coated hyaluronan sponge alone or the same scaffold loaded with the animal's own bone marrow, then evaluated healing at multiple time points up to 24 weeks using histological analysis. Both treatment groups showed similar overall repair outcomes, with defects filling with bone and a top layer of cartilage that integrated well with surrounding tissue, though the repaired cartilage remained thinner than adjacent normal cartilage. The main difference was that bone marrow addition appeared to accelerate early healing stages at 3 weeks, suggesting the hyaluronan scaffold effectively organizes the natural repair response regardless of bone marrow supplementation.

SURFACE FISSURES IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: EFFECT OF PATHOLOGICAL CHANGES IN SYNOVIAL FLUID.

DOI: 10.1016/s0268-0033(02)00105-5 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:54:42
This study aimed to develop a mathematical model explaining how surface fissures form in articular cartilage under both healthy and disease conditions. The researchers modeled the cartilage surface as a three-phase system containing collagen fibers, matrix, and infiltrated synovial fluid components, then applied theoretical analysis to examine fissure formation mechanisms. The key finding was that pathological thinning of synovial fluid significantly increases cartilage vulnerability to damage - while healthy joints require fast impact loading to create surface fissures, joints with inflammatory (thinned) synovial fluid can develop fissures from normal activities like walking. This work provides important theoretical insight into how synovial fluid changes in inflammatory joint conditions may contribute to early cartilage breakdown.

REPAIR OF OSTEOCHONDRAL DEFECT WITH TISSUE-ENGINEERED TWO-PHASE COMPOSITE MATERIAL OF INJECTABLE CALCIUM PHOSPHATE AND HYALURONAN SPONGE.

DOI: 10.1089/10763270260424187 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:54:37
This study aimed to evaluate a two-phase composite material combining injectable calcium phosphate (ICP) and hyaluronan (HA) sponge for repairing osteochondral defects in rabbit knees. Researchers created 3mm diameter defects in the weight-bearing area of rabbit femoral condyles, filled the bone portion with ICP, and topped it with HA sponge (with or without bone marrow cells), then analyzed healing at 4 and 12 weeks using histological examination. The composite material successfully filled 90-100% of defects by 4 weeks, with repair tissue showing four distinct zones and good integration with surrounding cartilage, while by 12 weeks the tissue developed more cartilage-like features including columnar cell arrangement and calcified cartilage layers. The addition of bone marrow cells to the HA sponge improved cellular density and cartilage integration compared to HA sponge alone.

AN IN VITRO INVESTIGATION OF THE ACETABULAR LABRAL SEAL IN HIP JOINT MECHANICS.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(02)00365-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:54:30
This study investigated how the acetabular labrum functions as a seal in hip joint mechanics and its role in protecting cartilage from degeneration. The researchers tested six human hip joints under constant and cyclic loading (0.75 times body weight) before and after complete labrum removal, measuring cartilage consolidation (compression) and fluid pressure within the joint space.

After labrum removal, cartilage consolidated 22% faster initially and 21% more overall, while intra-articular fluid pressure dropped significantly (from ~545 kPa to ~205 kPa on average). The results support the hypothesis that an intact labrum creates a fluid seal that slows cartilage compression and maintains higher joint pressures, which may enhance lubrication and protect against degenerative changes.

DYNAMIC COMPRESSIVE STRAIN INHIBITS NITRIC OXIDE SYNTHESIS BY EQUINE CHONDROCYTES ISOLATED FROM DIFFERENT AREAS OF THE CARTILAGE SURFACE.

DOI: 10.2746/042516403775600532 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:54:24
This study investigated how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) from different joint locations respond to mechanical loading, specifically examining the effects on nitric oxide (NO) production. The researchers isolated chondrocytes from high-loaded areas (patella groove) and low-loaded areas (femoral condyle) of equine joints, seeded them in agarose constructs, and subjected them to dynamic compression at 1 Hz for 48 hours while measuring NO synthesis, proteoglycan production, and cell proliferation. The key finding was that dynamic compression consistently inhibited NO synthesis in chondrocytes from both joint locations, while chondrocytes from high-loaded versus low-loaded areas showed distinct differences in proteoglycan synthesis and proliferation rates. These differential responses between chondrocyte subpopulations may represent an adaptive mechanism that allows different joint regions to meet their specific biomechanical demands.

CHONDROCYTE TRANSPLANTATION INTO ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFECTS WITH USE OF CALCIUM ALGINATE: THE FATE OF THE CELLS.

DOI: 10.2106/00004623-200309000-00015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:54:19
This study investigated what happens to transplanted chondrocytes (cartilage cells) after they are implanted into cartilage defects in rabbit knees. The researchers used fluorescent protein labeling to track the cells and calcium alginate as a delivery vehicle, comparing cells that were preconditioned in alginate culture versus those implanted immediately after defect creation. The main finding was that while alginate successfully promoted cartilage-specific gene expression and allowed cell delivery, the transplanted chondrocytes gradually disappeared over time - declining from 100% at one week to only 15% at four weeks post-implantation. Despite producing cartilage-like matrix material, the transplanted cells did not integrate with the host repair tissue or appear to contribute significantly to defect healing, raising important questions about the effectiveness of current cell-based cartilage repair strategies.

DEVELOPMENT OF SYNOVIAL JOINTS.

DOI: 10.1002/bdrc.10015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:54:11
This review examines the developmental processes underlying synovial joint formation in long bones. The study describes how synovial joints develop through cartilaginous differentiation followed by secondary segmentation, with a key intermediate structure called the interzone serving as a critical signaling center. The interzone expresses important regulatory factors including GDF-5, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and their antagonists like noggin, and WNT-14, which maintain the region's non-cartilaginous nature and prevent joint fusion. The main findings indicate that joint cavitation occurs through selective hyaluronan synthesis by interzone cells, and both synovial tissue and articular cartilage appear to develop from the interzone cell population, with articular cartilage growth sustained by progenitor cells residing at the joint surface.

THE EFFECT OF BODY MASS AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF GUINEA PIG OSTEOARTHROSIS.

DOI: 10.1080/00016470310017767 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:54:05
This study investigated how body weight and physical activity affect the development of osteoarthritis (OA) in guinea pigs by comparing three groups: controls with unlimited food, mobilized animals with increased exercise and unlimited food, and a diet-restricted group weight-matched to the exercised animals. The researchers examined cartilage thickness, lesion severity, bone density, and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content in the knee joints at 9 and 12 months of age. The most severe cartilage damage occurred in the highly active animals at 12 months, with 60% of cartilage surface showing lesions extending to bone, compared to 25% in controls and only 2% in the diet group, despite the active and diet groups having similar body weights. The findings suggest that while increased activity may initially protect cartilage, it becomes harmful once cartilage damage begins, and that reducing body weight helps slow OA progression primarily when joints experience static rather than dynamic loading.

THE EFFECT OF MECHANICAL LOAD ON INTEGRIN SUBUNITS ALPHA5 AND BETA1 IN CHONDROCYTES FROM MATURE AND IMMATURE CARTILAGE EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1007/s00441-003-0836-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:53:58
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects integrin receptors in cartilage cells, specifically examining whether cyclic compression influences the levels of integrin subunits alpha5 and beta1 that help cells communicate with their surrounding matrix. The researchers applied continuous cyclic compression (1 MPa) to cartilage samples from both young and adult cattle for 6 and 24 hours, then used flow cytometry to measure integrin levels in individual chondrocytes after releasing them from the tissue matrix. The key finding was that mechanical loading increased alpha5 integrin levels in chondrocytes from both age groups, with peak levels at 6 hours returning to baseline after 24 hours, while beta1 integrin levels remained unchanged. These results provide evidence that chondrocytes actively respond to mechanical stress by modulating specific integrin receptors, supporting the role of alpha5beta1 integrin as a mechanotransduction pathway between cartilage cells and their extracellular environment.

IMMUNOHISTOCHEMICAL STUDY OF THE UPPER SURFACE LAYER IN RAT MANDIBULAR CONDYLAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.14670/HH-19.29 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:53:50
This study investigated the distribution of hyaluronic acid and fibronectin in the surface layer of rat jaw joint (temporomandibular joint) cartilage to understand its lubrication mechanism. The researchers used immunohistochemical techniques including fluorescence microscopy and electron microscopy with specialized tissue preparation methods that preserved the delicate surface structures. The study revealed that the cartilage surface has a two-layer structure: fibronectin forms the deeper layer directly attached to the cartilage matrix, while hyaluronic acid is located in the superficial layer above the fibronectin. These findings suggest that hyaluronic acid binds with fibronectin to create an effective lubrication system for smooth jaw joint movement.

COLLAGENASE-1 (MMP-1) ACTIVITY IN EQUINE SYNOVIAL FLUID: INFLUENCE OF AGE, JOINT PATHOLOGY, EXERCISE AND REPEATED ARTHROCENTESIS.

DOI: 10.2746/0425164044864705 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:53:43
This study investigated MMP-1 (collagenase-1) activity in equine synovial fluid as a potential biomarker for joint disease, examining how age, osteoarthritis, exercise, and repeated joint sampling affect enzyme levels. The researchers measured MMP-1 activity using fluorogenic peptide substrates in synovial fluid samples from fetal, juvenile, and mature horses, as well as from horses with osteoarthritis, those undergoing exercise, and those subjected to repeated joint fluid sampling.

The key findings showed that MMP-1 activity dramatically decreases with age (15-fold higher in fetal compared to juvenile horses), increases significantly in osteoarthritic joints, and is elevated by repeated arthrocentesis within 60 hours, while moderate exercise had no effect. These results suggest MMP-1 could serve as a useful diagnostic biomarker for early joint disease in horses, but age-related physiological changes and the timing of joint sampling procedures must be carefully considered when interpreting results.

PERMEABILITY OF MUSCULOSKELETAL TISSUES AND SCAFFOLDING MATERIALS: EXPERIMENTAL RESULTS AND THEORETICAL PREDICTIONS.

DOI: 10.1615/critrevbiomedeng.v31.i12.10 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:53:36
This review study aimed to compile experimental permeability data for musculoskeletal tissues and examine theoretical models linking tissue microstructure to fluid flow properties. The authors summarized experimentally measured permeability values across various musculoskeletal tissues and reviewed mathematical models that relate bulk tissue permeability to microscopic flow patterns based on Darcy's Law. The study found that permeability varies widely across different musculoskeletal tissues and is closely related to their microstructural organization. The authors concluded that understanding these structure-function relationships is critical for developing effective tissue engineering scaffolds and predicting important biological processes like nutrient transport and mechanical signaling in both natural and engineered tissues.

EXPERIMENTAL VERIFICATION OF THE ROLE OF INTERSTITIAL FLUID PRESSURIZATION IN CARTILAGE LUBRICATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.orthres.2003.07.002 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:53:29
This study aimed to directly measure how interstitial fluid pressure within cartilage affects its lubrication properties during sliding contact. The researchers tested 10 bovine cartilage plugs in a custom friction device, sliding them against glass under constant load while simultaneously measuring both friction coefficients and interstitial fluid load support over time periods ranging from 15 minutes to over 5 hours. The results showed a strong inverse relationship between friction and fluid pressurization: as interstitial fluid load support decreased from 89% to 9% over time, the friction coefficient increased dramatically from 0.010 to 0.243, with a nearly perfect linear correlation (R² = 0.96). These findings provide direct experimental evidence that interstitial fluid pressurization is the primary mechanism controlling cartilage lubrication, confirming that cartilage maintains low friction through fluid-based rather than surface-based lubrication mechanisms.

THE FRICTIONAL COEFFICIENT OF THE TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT AND ITS DEPENDENCY ON THE MAGNITUDE AND DURATION OF JOINT LOADING.

DOI: 10.1177/154405910408300510 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:53:22
This study investigated how loading conditions affect friction in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), hypothesizing that both the magnitude and duration of compressive forces would influence the joint's frictional coefficient. The researchers used a pendulum-type friction tester to measure friction in 20 intact porcine TMJs under different loading scenarios, applying forces of 50N and 80N for various time periods. The results showed that the mean frictional coefficient started at 0.0145 after 5 seconds of 50N loading but increased significantly to over 0.0220 after 1 hour, and higher loads (80N) produced significantly greater friction coefficients. These findings demonstrate that TMJ friction increases proportionally with both the magnitude and duration of joint loading, likely due to changes in synovial lubrication under sustained compression.

DOSE-RESPONSE RELATIONSHIP FOR EXERCISE ON SEVERITY OF EXPERIMENTAL OSTEOARTHRITIS IN RATS: A PILOT STUDY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2004.06.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:53:16
This pilot study investigated how different exercise intensities affect cartilage damage progression in rats with experimentally-induced osteoarthritis. Researchers used anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) to create osteoarthritis in rats, then assigned them to control (no exercise) or three exercise groups (slight, moderate, or intense running), evaluating cartilage damage and cell death markers at 14 and 28 days post-surgery. The study found that slight and moderate exercise significantly reduced cartilage damage compared to controls, while intense exercise eliminated these protective benefits. The protective effects of mild-to-moderate exercise appeared linked to increased production of a protective protein (HSP70) and reduced cartilage cell death, suggesting there is an optimal exercise "dose" for cartilage health.

HYLAN G-F 20 EFFICACY ON ARTICULAR CARTILAGE QUALITY IN PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: CLINICAL AND MRI ASSESSMENT.

DOI: 10.1007/s10067-004-1043-z · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:53:10
This randomized controlled trial investigated whether intra-articular hyaluronic acid (Hylan G-F 20) injections improve symptoms and cartilage quality in knee osteoarthritis patients. Thirty patients received either three weekly injections of hyaluronic acid (20 patients, 30 knees) or saline placebo (10 patients, 10 knees), with clinical assessments using pain scales, WOMAC scores, and walking tests, plus MRI evaluation of cartilage quality at 8 weeks. Hyaluronic acid treatment showed significant improvements in all clinical measures compared to placebo, with pain relief beginning at 3 weeks and functional improvements evident by 8 weeks. While MRI showed some cartilage quality improvements within the treatment group, there was no significant difference in cartilage changes between the hyaluronic acid and placebo groups.

SURFACE MOTION UPREGULATES SUPERFICIAL ZONE PROTEIN AND HYALURONAN PRODUCTION IN CHONDROCYTE-SEEDED THREE-DIMENSIONAL SCAFFOLDS.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.2005.11.249 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:53:00
This study aimed to investigate how joint-like surface motion affects the production of key lubricating molecules (superficial zone protein and hyaluronan) by chondrocytes grown on 3D scaffolds. The researchers used a specialized bioreactor to apply different mechanical conditions to chondrocyte-seeded scaffolds, including static compression, dynamic compression, and surface articulation against a ceramic ball, then measured gene expression and protein release. The key finding was that surface motion specifically upregulated both the gene expression and actual production of superficial zone protein and hyaluronan, while compression alone had minimal effects. These results suggest that reproducing natural joint kinematics, particularly sliding motion, is crucial for developing functional cartilage surfaces in tissue engineering applications.

EFFECTS OF HYALURONAN ON THREE-DIMENSIONAL MICROARCHITECTURE OF SUBCHONDRAL BONE TISSUES IN GUINEA PIG PRIMARY OSTEOARTHROSIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2004.12.010 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:52:54
This study investigated whether intra-articular hyaluronan (HA) injections could protect both cartilage and underlying bone structure in guinea pigs with naturally occurring osteoarthritis. The researchers used micro-CT scanning, mechanical testing, and biochemical analysis to examine bone changes in 56 male guinea pigs treated with weekly HA injections (0.4 mg/kg for 5 weeks) compared to control groups, with follow-up at 2.5 and 5.5 months. HA treatment successfully prevented cartilage degeneration and created beneficial changes in the subchondral bone, including reduced bone density and thickness, and a shift toward more rod-like trabecular structure that makes the bone more compliant and better able to absorb impact forces. The protective effects on both cartilage and bone were maintained even after stopping treatment, suggesting that early, short-term HA therapy may be sufficient for long-term osteoarthritis prevention.

TRANSCRIPTIONAL REGULATION OF CHONDROCYTE MATURATION: POTENTIAL INVOLVEMENT OF TRANSCRIPTION FACTORS IN OA PATHOGENESIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2005.01.003 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:52:46
This review examines the role of transcriptional regulation in chondrocyte maturation and its potential contribution to osteoarthritis (OA) development. The authors synthesized existing literature on how articular chondrocytes normally remain in a maturationally-arrested state, avoiding the terminal differentiation seen in growth plate cartilage during bone formation. Key findings indicate that healthy articular chondrocytes are constrained from completing their maturation program (evidenced by lack of type X collagen and alkaline phosphatase expression) and remain unresponsive to maturation-promoting factors like BMP-2, but this protective arrest mechanism fails in OA. The study concludes that OA pathogenesis may involve the loss of transcriptional mechanisms that normally prevent articular cartilage differentiation, leading to inappropriate chondrocyte maturation and joint degeneration.

INFLUENCE OF PROTEOGLYCAN CONTENTS AND OF TISSUE HYDRATION ON THE FRICTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1243/095441105X34220 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:52:39
This study investigated how water content and surface molecules, particularly proteoglycans, affect the lubrication properties of articular cartilage. The researchers conducted friction tests on pig femoral condyles, comparing intact cartilage surfaces to those that had been wiped clean, while measuring water loss during loading and sliding, and performing microscopic analysis of the surface layer. Key findings showed that intact cartilage surfaces had significantly lower friction than wiped surfaces, and that cartilage gradually lost water during mechanical testing but could rehydrate when unloaded in saline solution. The study confirmed the presence of a proteoglycan-rich superficial layer on the cartilage surface, supporting the hypothesis that this hydrophilic layer forms a water-rich boundary that is crucial for effective joint lubrication.

ANALYSIS OF INFLAMMATORY MEDIATORS IN TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT SYNOVIAL FLUID LAVAGE SAMPLES OF SYMPTOMATIC PATIENTS AND ASYMPTOMATIC CONTROLS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joms.2005.02.009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:52:33
This study aimed to identify biochemical markers of inflammation in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders by comparing levels of specific inflammatory mediators between symptomatic patients and healthy controls. The researchers collected synovial fluid samples via arthroscopic lavage from 20 patients with severe TMJ pain and movement limitation (who had failed conservative treatment) and 13 asymptomatic controls, then measured beta-glucuronidase enzyme activity and immunoglobulins (IgA and IgG) using laboratory assays. The results showed significantly elevated levels of beta-glucuronidase and IgG in symptomatic patients compared to controls, with IgA also trending higher. The authors conclude that these elevated inflammatory markers in diseased TMJ synovial fluid likely result from immune system activation and chronic inflammation, which may contribute to cartilage destruction through complement activation and immune complex formation.

EFFECT OF DYNAMIC LOADING ON THE FRICTIONAL RESPONSE OF BOVINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2004.07.025 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:52:26
This study investigated whether dynamic loading improves the lubricating properties of articular cartilage compared to static loading. The researchers tested bovine shoulder cartilage plugs (n=12) under static and cyclical compression at three frequencies (0.05, 0.5, and 1 Hz) while sliding against glass, measuring friction coefficients and predicting fluid load support. Under static loading, friction increased from very low initial values (0.005) to higher equilibrium values (0.153), while dynamic loading produced oscillating friction between lower bounds (0.083-0.092) and upper bounds (0.298-0.382) that were respectively below and above static equilibrium values. Contrary to the original hypotheses, dynamic loading did not consistently reduce friction or improve fluid load support compared to static conditions, with little sensitivity to loading frequency observed.

THE RESPONSE OF PRIMARY ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES TO MICROMETRIC SURFACE TOPOGRAPHY AND SULPHATED HYALURONIC ACID-BASED MATRICES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.cellbi.2005.03.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:52:20
This study investigated how primary articular chondrocytes respond to different surface textures and chemical environments to inform cartilage repair strategies. The researchers tested chondrocyte behavior on grooved surfaces of varying sizes (80 nm to 9 μm deep, 2-20 μm wide) and on sulphated hyaluronic acid (HyalS) matrices. The key findings showed that while most surface grooves did not significantly change cell shape or internal structure, 750 nm deep grooves specifically enhanced cell movement compared to flat surfaces. Additionally, chondrocytes showed stronger attachment, increased spreading, and reorganization of their internal framework when grown on sulphated hyaluronic acid surfaces, suggesting these specific surface modifications could improve cartilage tissue engineering approaches.

BIPHASIC SURFACE AMORPHOUS LAYER LUBRICATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2005.05.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:52:13
This study investigated how a thin surface layer on articular cartilage contributes to the joint's exceptionally low friction during movement. The researchers used finite element modeling to simulate cartilage with a biphasic surface amorphous layer (BSAL) - a soft, thin layer containing both solid and fluid components on top of the main cartilage tissue. The modeling revealed that this soft surface layer dramatically shifts load-bearing from the solid tissue to the fluid phase, with fluid supporting over 85% of the load in near-surface regions. This load transfer mechanism enhances lubrication and reduces friction while protecting the underlying cartilage from high stresses, with the greatest benefits occurring during short-duration loads like shock impacts.

EVALUATION OF THE SUPERFICIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE USING EVANESCENT WAVES IN THE FRICTION TESTS WITH INTERMITTENT SLIDING AND LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2005.06.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:52:08
This study aimed to simultaneously evaluate the friction and surface characteristics of articular cartilage during intermittent loading and sliding to understand its lubrication properties. The researchers used an innovative evanescent wave technique with laser light reflection at a prism-cartilage interface to analyze surface composition while measuring friction forces during sliding tests with 10 and 30-second unloading intervals. The key findings showed that both friction coefficient and light reflectance attenuation decreased after unloading periods, with greater reductions observed during longer unloading times. The results suggest that cartilage's ability to rehydrate and increase water content at its surface during unloading periods is crucial for maintaining low friction levels in synovial joints.

MICROSCOPIC MAGNETIC RESONANCE ELASTOGRAPHY (MICROMRE).

DOI: 10.1002/mrm.20584 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:52:02
This study aimed to develop microscopic magnetic resonance elastography (microMRE) to measure mechanical properties of soft tissues at very high spatial resolution (34×34×500 micrometers). The researchers used an 11.74 Tesla MRI scanner with piezoelectric transducers generating low-frequency sound waves (550-585 Hz) to create shear waves in samples, then analyzed wave patterns to determine tissue stiffness and viscosity. The technique successfully distinguished mechanical properties in agarose gel phantoms, frog egg cells, and tissue-engineered constructs, demonstrating that stiffer materials showed increased elasticity and viscosity, and that different cell types (fat-forming vs. bone-forming) could be differentiated. The authors suggest this high-resolution approach could be extended to study harder materials like cartilage and monitor tissue development over time.

REPEATED MECHANICAL LOADING ENHANCES THE EXPRESSION OF INDIAN HEDGEHOG IN CONDYLAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.2741/1850 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:51:55
This study investigated how repeated mechanical loading affects the expression of Indian hedgehog (IHH) and type II collagen in jaw joint cartilage growth. The researchers used 280 rats with bite-jumping appliances to create stepwise mechanical strain on the jaw joint, measuring gene expression at multiple time points over 44 days using real-time PCR. The key finding was that IHH expression peaked 7 days after each mechanical loading phase, followed by increased type II collagen expression at days 21 and 44. These results demonstrate that repeated mechanical loading triggers a cascade where IHH acts as a mechanotransduction mediator, promoting cell proliferation and cartilage formation that ultimately enhances condylar growth.

INHIBITION OF COX-2 BY CELECOXIB IN THE CANINE GROOVE MODEL OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kei187 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:51:50
This study investigated whether celecoxib (a COX-2 inhibitor) could protect cartilage in a live animal model of osteoarthritis, following promising laboratory results. The researchers induced osteoarthritis in 24 beagle dogs using the groove model and treated them with placebo or celecoxib (100 or 200 mg daily) for 15 weeks before analyzing joint tissues. Despite confirming that celecoxib reached the joints in effective concentrations (evidenced by reduced prostaglandin E2 levels), the treatment showed no significant protective effects on cartilage damage, proteoglycan loss, or other osteoarthritis characteristics observed in the live animals. The authors suggest this disconnect between laboratory and live animal results may be due to celecoxib's pain-relieving effects potentially leading to increased joint loading and continued cartilage deterioration, offsetting any direct protective benefits.

THE INFLUENCE OF INTRAOPERATIVE PRETENSIONING ON THE CHONDROPROTECTIVE EFFECT OF MENISCAL TRANSPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546505281801 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:51:44
This study investigated whether applying tension to sutures during meniscal transplant surgery improves the transplant's ability to protect joint cartilage from damage. Researchers used 36 sheep divided into six groups: sham surgery, meniscectomy alone, and meniscal transplantation with varying levels of suture pretensioning (0N, 20N, 40N, and 60N), then evaluated cartilage health after 6 months using standard scoring systems. Higher pretensioning forces (40N and 60N) significantly reduced cartilage degeneration compared to both meniscectomy alone and transplants without pretensioning, though cartilage damage still occurred in all surgical groups compared to the sham controls. The findings suggest that applying appropriate tension to sutures during meniscal transplant surgery can improve the procedure's protective effect on joint cartilage, likely by better restoring the meniscus's natural load-bearing function.

INFLUENCE OF HYALURONIC ACID ON THE TIME-DEPENDENT FRICTION RESPONSE OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER DIFFERENT CONDITIONS.

DOI: 10.1243/095441105X69060 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:51:37
This study investigated how hyaluronic acid injections affect cartilage friction under different loading conditions to better understand their potential as osteoarthritis treatments. The researchers tested both healthy and surface-damaged cartilage samples under static and dynamic loading conditions, with and without hyaluronic acid lubricant, measuring friction changes over time and under various sliding distances.

The key findings showed that hyaluronic acid effectively reduced friction under static loading conditions for both healthy and damaged cartilage surfaces. However, under dynamic conditions with longer sliding distances (4mm or greater), the cartilage's natural lubrication mechanisms were sufficient, making hyaluronic acid less beneficial. Hyaluronic acid only demonstrated clear therapeutic value under conditions where the cartilage's intrinsic lubrication was depleted - specifically during shorter sliding distances or prolonged loading that increased friction over time.

GLUTAMINE PROTECTS ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES FROM HEAT STRESS AND NO-INDUCED APOPTOSIS WITH HSP70 EXPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2005.12.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:51:31
This study investigated whether L-glutamine (GLN) can protect cartilage cells (chondrocytes) from damage caused by heat stress and nitric oxide exposure. The researchers cultured rabbit chondrocytes and treated them with various concentrations of GLN, then exposed them to heat stress (43°C) or nitric oxide, measuring cell survival, cell death (apoptosis), and expression of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70). The results showed that GLN provided dose-dependent protection against both heat stress and nitric oxide-induced cell death, with this protective effect linked to increased HSP70 expression. When HSP70 was blocked using an inhibitor (quercetin), the protective benefits of GLN were eliminated, suggesting that GLN protects chondrocytes primarily through enhancing HSP70 expression.

FRICTIONAL RESPONSE OF BOVINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER CREEP LOADING FOLLOWING PROTEOGLYCAN DIGESTION WITH CHONDROITINASE ABC.

DOI: 10.1115/1.2133764 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:51:25
This study investigated how the removal of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) affects the friction properties of articular cartilage by treating bovine cartilage samples with chondroitinase ABC enzyme. The researchers tested 12 cartilage samples (6 treated, 6 controls) under constant compression and sliding motion for over 40 minutes, measuring friction coefficients throughout the test period. The results showed that GAG-depleted cartilage had significantly higher friction at equilibrium compared to intact cartilage (0.19 vs 0.12), though initial friction values were similar between groups. These findings suggest that preserving or restoring GAG content in cartilage could be an important therapeutic target for maintaining joint lubrication in osteoarthritis.

INTEGRIN-MEDIATED MECHANOTRANSDUCTION IN IL-1 BETA STIMULATED CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-006-0032-3 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:51:19
This study investigated how mechanical forces and inflammatory signals interact in cartilage cells, specifically examining whether integrin proteins mediate the cellular response to mechanical loading in the presence of the inflammatory cytokine IL-1β. The researchers applied dynamic compression to chondrocytes (cartilage cells) with and without IL-1β treatment, measuring nitric oxide release, PGE2 production, cell proliferation, and proteoglycan synthesis, while using integrin-blocking peptides to test the role of these mechanoreceptors. The results showed that mechanical compression had beneficial effects—reducing inflammatory nitric oxide production while increasing cell proliferation and proteoglycan synthesis—and these protective effects occurred even when cells were exposed to IL-1β. Importantly, blocking integrin function with specific peptides completely abolished these compression-induced benefits, demonstrating that integrins are essential mediators of how cartilage cells respond to mechanical forces, even in inflammatory conditions.

BASIC FIBROBLAST GROWTH FACTOR: AN EXTRACELLULAR MECHANOTRANSDUCER IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE?

DOI: 10.1042/BST0340456 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:51:11
This study investigated how mechanical forces are converted into cellular signals in articular cartilage, specifically examining the role of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) as a potential mediator. The researchers used cutting and loading experiments on cartilage tissue, combined with immunohistochemistry to locate bFGF within the cartilage structure. They found that mechanical stimulation activated extracellular-signal-regulated kinase and caused release of bFGF, which was normally stored in the pericellular matrix attached to the proteoglycan perlecan. The authors propose a new model where mechanical loading of cartilage makes this stored bFGF available to cell surface receptors, potentially explaining how cartilage cells sense and respond to mechanical forces.

ION-CHANNEL REGULATION OF CHONDROCYTE MATRIX SYNTHESIS IN 3D CULTURE UNDER STATIC AND DYNAMIC COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-006-0034-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:51:06
This study investigated how ion channels regulate chondrocyte responses to mechanical loading in 3D culture by examining matrix protein and sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) synthesis. The researchers used bovine cartilage explants and chondrocyte-seeded agarose gels treated with four different ion channel inhibitors (targeting potassium, calcium, stretch-activated channels, and intracellular calcium stores) under static and dynamic compression for 20 hours. The findings revealed that ion channel inhibition had greater effects on sGAG synthesis than protein synthesis, with thapsigargin (which disrupts intracellular calcium stores) causing the most dramatic reduction in sGAG production. The results suggest that calcium signaling plays a critical role in how chondrocytes sense and respond to mechanical stimuli, and that multiple, complex ion channel pathways are involved in regulating cartilage matrix synthesis under mechanical loading.

EFFECTS OF MOVING TRAINING ON HISTOLOGY AND BIOMARKERS LEVELS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2006.03.011 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:50:58
This study investigated how different training intensities affect knee cartilage adaptation in dogs and whether blood and joint fluid biomarkers can detect early cartilage changes better than MRI. Twenty adult dogs were divided into control, common training, and intensified training groups and monitored for 10 weeks using MRI imaging, biomarker measurements (COMP, MMP-1, MMP-3, TIMP-1), and final histological analysis. The study found that both training groups showed early cartilage damage by week 2 that peaked at weeks 4-6 before gradually improving, but surprisingly, intensified training resulted in better cartilage repair and remodeling than common training. Importantly, biomarkers in blood and synovial fluid were more sensitive than MRI for detecting cartilage changes, suggesting they could be valuable clinical tools for monitoring cartilage health and predicting injury in athletes.

CHONDROCYTE INTRACELLULAR CALCIUM, CYTOSKELETAL ORGANIZATION, AND GENE EXPRESSION RESPONSES TO DYNAMIC OSMOTIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00127.2005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:50:51
This study investigated how dynamic osmotic loading affects chondrocyte cellular responses, hypothesizing that dynamic conditions would produce different effects than static loading. The researchers used a novel microfluidic device to apply hypotonic loading (-200 mOsm) at frequencies up to 0.1 Hz to chondrocytes, then measured intracellular calcium signaling, actin cytoskeleton organization, and gene expression changes. The key findings showed that chondrocytes had reduced volume and calcium responses as loading frequency increased, displayed cytoskeletal reorganization, and exhibited enhanced gene expression under dynamic compared to static osmotic conditions. These results demonstrate that chondrocytes respond differently to dynamic versus static osmotic stimuli, providing insights into how joint loading may influence cartilage cell behavior.

STATIC AND DYNAMIC LOADING EFFECTS ON TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DISC TRACTIONAL FORCES.

DOI: 10.1177/154405910608500906 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:50:45
This study investigated how static loading affects tractional forces in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discs, which may contribute to mechanical fatigue and degeneration. The researchers tested 64 porcine TMJ discs by applying a 10-N static load for either 1 or 30 seconds, followed by cyclic movement at various velocities while measuring tractional forces and compressive strain. The results showed that longer static loading (30 seconds) produced significantly higher compressive strain and tractional forces at movement initiation, with these two parameters being strongly correlated (R² = 0.84). Additionally, peak tractional forces increased linearly with movement velocity (R² = 0.85) and were highest during the first movement cycle after prolonged static loading, supporting both study hypotheses and suggesting that prolonged jaw clenching followed by rapid movement may increase TMJ disc deterioration risk.

ALTERED HOMEOSTASIS OF EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX PROTEINS IN JOINTS OF STANDARDBRED TROTTERS DURING A LONG-TERM TRAINING PROGRAMME.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0442.2006.00877.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:50:36
This study investigated how intensive long-term training affects cartilage metabolism in racehorses by measuring cartilage breakdown products in joint fluid. Researchers followed 28 Standardbred trotters for 24 months, collecting synovial fluid samples every three months from the carpal (knee) joint and measuring levels of three key cartilage proteins using immunoassays. The main findings showed that cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) levels decreased with both age and training duration, while collagen type II breakdown products increased with more training days. These results suggest that extensive training programs cause metabolic changes in joint cartilage, likely due to excessive mechanical loading that reduces cartilage protein synthesis and increases degradation.

INTRA-ARTICULAR HYALURONIC ACID AFTER KNEE ARTHROSCOPY: A TWO-YEAR STUDY.

DOI: 10.1007/s00167-006-0260-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:50:30
This randomized controlled trial investigated whether adding hyaluronic acid (HA) injection after knee arthroscopy improves long-term outcomes in patients with persistent knee pain. The study compared 40 patients who received arthroscopic lavage alone (Group A) versus 40 patients who received the same procedure plus immediate injection of 10 mL sodium hyaluronate solution (A + HA group), following patients for two years. Both groups showed immediate improvement in walking pain and mobility, but the hyaluronic acid group maintained or improved their benefits at 3 months and 1 year, while the lavage-only group experienced declining effects. The findings suggest that post-arthroscopic hyaluronic acid injection helps stabilize and prolong the therapeutic benefits of knee arthroscopy, with no adverse effects observed in either treatment group.

FGF-2 IS BOUND TO PERLECAN IN THE PERICELLULAR MATRIX OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE, WHERE IT ACTS AS A CHONDROCYTE MECHANOTRANSDUCER.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2007.01.021 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:50:22
This study investigated where fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) is stored in articular cartilage and its role in how cartilage cells respond to mechanical loading. The researchers used microscopy techniques to locate FGF-2 in cartilage tissue, performed binding studies to identify which molecules it attaches to, and tested cartilage samples under mechanical loading while measuring cellular responses. They found that FGF-2 is bound to a protein called perlecan in the pericellular matrix (the immediate area surrounding cartilage cells) and that both molecules are located within the same region rich in type VI collagen. When cartilage is mechanically loaded, this stored FGF-2 is released and activates cellular signaling pathways (specifically ERK activation), suggesting that pericellular FGF-2 serves as an important mechanotransducer that helps cartilage cells sense and respond to mechanical forces.

MATRIX METALLOPROTEINASES AND INHIBITOR IN KNEE SYNOVIAL FLUID AS CARTILAGE BIOMARKERS IN RABBITS: THE EFFECT OF HIGH-INTENSITY JUMPING EXERCISE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2006.12.556 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:50:15
This study investigated whether specific biomarkers in knee joint fluid could detect early cartilage damage caused by high-intensity exercise in rabbits. Researchers compared 32 rabbits undergoing jumping training with 8 control rabbits, measuring matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, MMP-3) and their inhibitor (TIMP-1) in synovial fluid at 4 and 8 weeks, alongside histological analysis of cartilage damage. The jumping exercise caused progressive cartilage injury over time, with significantly elevated levels of MMP-3, TIMP-1, and the MMP-3/TIMP-1 ratio in the exercise group compared to controls. These synovial fluid biomarkers correlated well with the severity of cartilage damage, suggesting they could serve as reliable indicators for detecting early sports-related joint injury.

DOUBLE BLIND INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECTS OF ORAL SUPPLEMENTATION OF COMBINED GLUCOSAMINE HYDROCHLORIDE (GHCL) AND CHONDROITIN SULPHATE (CS) ON STRIDE CHARACTERISTICS OF VETERAN HORSES.

DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2006.tb05615.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:50:09
This double-blind study investigated whether oral supplementation with glucosamine hydrochloride, chondroitin sulfate, and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine could improve movement in older horses with joint problems. Twenty veteran horses were randomly divided into treatment (n=15) and placebo (n=5) groups, with gait analysis performed using digital video at baseline and every 4 weeks during 12 weeks of supplementation. By week 8, treated horses showed significantly increased joint range of motion in the elbow, stifle, and hind fetlock, along with longer stride length and increased swing duration compared to controls. The results suggest that oral chondroprotective supplements may provide symptomatic relief and improve movement quality in veteran horses with degenerative joint disease.

PRECONDITIONING OF MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS WITH LOW-INTENSITY ULTRASOUND FOR CARTILAGE FORMATION IN VIVO.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.2006.0080 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:50:04
This study investigated whether preconditioning mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with low-intensity ultrasound could improve cartilage formation when implanted in living tissue. The researchers seeded rabbit bone marrow MSCs onto scaffolds and treated different groups with ultrasound (20 minutes daily for 1 week), growth factor (TGF-β), both treatments, or no treatment before implanting them under the skin of mice for up to 6 weeks. The ultrasound-treated groups showed superior cartilage formation with better structural integrity, reduced blood vessel invasion, and enhanced expression of cartilage-specific genes while suppressing bone formation markers. These findings suggest that brief ultrasound preconditioning of stem cells before implantation could be a simple and effective strategy to enhance cartilage tissue engineering outcomes.

INVESTIGATION OF THE FRICTION AND SURFACE DEGRADATION OF INNOVATIVE CHONDROPLASTY MATERIALS AGAINST ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1243/09544119JEIM178 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:49:55
This study aimed to evaluate different biomaterials as potential chondroplasty replacements by investigating their friction and wear characteristics when tested against articular cartilage. The researchers conducted friction and wear tests using bovine cartilage pins sliding against various single-phase and biphasic materials under different lubricant conditions and loading scenarios. The key finding was that biphasic materials demonstrated significantly lower friction compared to single-phase materials, likely because their structure allowed for fluid rehydration and expulsion that maintained load support similar to natural cartilage. Additionally, biphasic materials caused less surface damage to the opposing cartilage pins during long-term testing, suggesting they better mimic the natural biotribological properties of articular cartilage and may be superior candidates for chondroplasty applications.

EXERCISE AND INJURY INCREASE CHONDROITIN SULFATE CHAIN LENGTH AND DECREASE HYALURONAN CHAIN LENGTH IN SYNOVIAL FLUID.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2007.04.005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:49:49
This study investigated how exercise and osteochondral injury affect the molecular composition of synovial fluid in horses, specifically examining chondroitin sulfate (CS) and hyaluronan (HA) chain lengths and concentrations. Researchers analyzed synovial fluid, serum, and cartilage samples from three groups: rested horses, the same horses after 9 months of treadmill training, and horses with racing-related osteochondral injuries, using gel chromatography and electrophoresis techniques.

The key findings showed that both exercise and injury increased CS chain length in synovial fluid, with injury causing a more dramatic increase (from 11.6 kDa in rested horses to 18.7 kDa in injured horses) compared to exercise alone (15.6 kDa). Conversely, both exercise and injury decreased HA chain length and total HA concentration in synovial fluid, with injury producing more severe changes than exercise.

The authors conclude that analyzing CS and HA chain lengths in synovial fluid could serve as a useful biomarker tool for assessing joint health and detecting joint damage.

LEVELS OF BIOMARKERS CORRELATE WITH MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING PROGRESSION OF KNEE CARTILAGE DEGENERATION: A STUDY ON CANINE.

DOI: 10.1007/s00167-006-0280-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:49:42
This study examined whether blood and joint fluid biomarkers correlate with MRI-detected cartilage damage in a canine model of exercise-induced knee degeneration. Twenty dogs were divided into light training, intensive training, and control groups, with MRI scans and biomarker measurements (COMP, MMP-1, MMP-3, TIMP-1) taken every 2 weeks over 10 weeks of training. Both training groups showed cartilage degeneration on MRI compared to controls, with elevated biomarker levels in blood and synovial fluid that correlated significantly with MRI severity scores. The researchers concluded that while MRI changes were similar between light and intensive training groups, biomarkers showed greater sensitivity to detect differences in cartilage breakdown, suggesting they could serve as valuable supplements to MRI for early detection of cartilage degeneration.

LOADING ALTERS ACTIN DYNAMICS AND UP-REGULATES COFILIN GENE EXPRESSION IN CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.06.185 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:49:36
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects the internal structure and gene expression of cartilage cells (chondrocytes), specifically focusing on actin proteins that help maintain cell shape and function. The researchers used fluorescently-labeled chondrocytes embedded in gel and applied cyclic compression while observing changes under a microscope, measuring both structural changes and gene expression. They found that mechanical loading caused breakdown of cortical actin (the cell's structural framework) and increased expression of genes for proteins that disassemble actin filaments, including cofilin and destrin. These findings suggest that chondrocytes can modify their internal structure in response to mechanical forces, which may be an important mechanism for cartilage cells to adapt to different loading conditions in joints.

IN VITRO EXPANSION AFFECTS THE RESPONSE OF CHONDROCYTES TO MECHANICAL STIMULATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2007.07.014 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:49:30
This study investigated how in vitro cell expansion affects chondrocyte responses to mechanical loading, which is relevant for cartilage repair procedures that use expanded autologous chondrocytes. The researchers subjected both primary (unexpanded) and expanded human articular chondrocytes to cyclic stretching at different strain levels and analyzed gene expression of cartilage matrix components and degrading enzymes. Primary chondrocytes showed minimal response to mechanical stretch, with only mild changes in gene expression, while expanded chondrocytes demonstrated dramatically altered responses including large decreases in cartilage matrix genes (up to 21-fold for aggrecan) and significant increases in matrix-degrading enzymes (up to 20-fold for MMP1). These findings suggest that the cell expansion process commonly used in cartilage repair therapies fundamentally changes how chondrocytes respond to mechanical forces, potentially compromising their regenerative capacity after reimplantation.

MECHANOTRANSDUCTION OF BOVINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE SUPERFICIAL ZONE PROTEIN BY TRANSFORMING GROWTH FACTOR BETA SIGNALING.

DOI: 10.1002/art.23024 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:49:23
This study investigated how mechanical forces regulate the production of superficial zone protein (SZP), an important joint lubricant in cartilage. The researchers used bovine knee cartilage to map SZP distribution, measure contact pressures and friction, and test how shear stress affects SZP production with and without blocking TGF-β signaling pathways. They discovered that SZP levels are highest in anterior knee regions that experience maximum contact pressures and have the lowest friction, and that mechanical shear stress increases SZP production through TGF-β signaling pathways. These findings reveal a novel mechanism by which cartilage cells sense mechanical forces and respond by producing more lubricating protein, which has important implications for understanding joint health and developing cartilage repair strategies.

DIFFERENTIAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND CHONDROPROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF SIMULATED DIGESTS OF INDOMETHACIN AND AN HERBAL COMPOSITE (MOBILITY) IN A CARTILAGE EXPLANT MODEL OF ARTICULAR INFLAMMATION.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2885.2007.00905.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:49:17
This study aimed to compare the anti-inflammatory and cartilage-protective effects of indomethacin (a conventional NSAID) versus a commercial herbal product called Mobility in a laboratory model of cartilage inflammation. The researchers used horse cartilage samples exposed to interleukin-1 beta (a pro-inflammatory molecule) and treated them with simulated digestive products of both compounds, measuring inflammatory markers (PGE2 and nitric oxide) and cartilage breakdown (GAG release). Indomethacin effectively reduced inflammation by strongly inhibiting PGE2 and nitric oxide production, but provided no protection against cartilage breakdown. In contrast, the herbal product showed different effects—it reduced nitric oxide production and importantly prevented cartilage breakdown (GAG release), though it slightly increased PGE2 levels, suggesting it may offer complementary cartilage-protective benefits alongside conventional anti-inflammatory treatments.

DYNAMIC AND STATIC MECHANICAL COMPRESSION AFFECTS AKT PHOSPHORYLATION IN PORCINE PATELLOFEMORAL JOINT CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.20542 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:49:11
This study investigated whether the protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway in cartilage cells responds to mechanical loading, as it does in other tissues. The researchers applied compression forces (500 N for 150 seconds) to porcine knee joints using either dynamic loading at different frequencies (1 Hz or 12 Hz) or static loading, then analyzed AKT phosphorylation in cartilage samples using immunohistochemistry at various time points. The main finding was that mechanical loading caused a downregulation of AKT phosphorylation 300 seconds after loading, while unloaded control samples showed no change. The study also revealed that AKT responses varied depending on loading frequency, cartilage depth, and timing after loading, suggesting that AKT signaling plays an important role in how cartilage cells sense and respond to mechanical forces.

TISSUE ENGINEERING AND CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.4161/org.6116 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:49:05
This review examines tissue engineering approaches for repairing damaged articular cartilage, which has limited natural healing capacity due to its avascular nature. The authors outline four essential components for successful cartilage tissue engineering: cells (including chondrocytes or stem cells from various sources like bone marrow, synovium, and umbilical cord), growth factors (such as TGF-β, BMPs, and IGF-1), scaffolds (protein-based, carbohydrate-based, or hydrogel materials), and appropriate mechanical environments that mimic joint loading conditions. The review emphasizes that combining these elements effectively can promote the formation of hyaline-like cartilage tissue. The authors conclude that successful cartilage tissue engineering could significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the need for costly joint replacement procedures.

SERUM KERATAN SULFATE TRANSIENTLY INCREASES IN THE EARLY STAGE OF OSTEOARTHRITIS DURING STRENUOUS RUNNING OF RATS: PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF INTRAARTICULAR HYALURONAN INJECTION.

DOI: 10.1186/ar2363 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:48:58
This study investigated whether strenuous running causes osteoarthritis in rats and whether serum keratan sulfate could serve as a biomarker for early disease detection. Researchers forced Wistar rats to run 30 km over 6 weeks on treadmills, then assessed knee cartilage damage through microscopic examination and measured serum keratan sulfate levels weekly using HPLC; some rats received weekly hyaluronan injections to test protective effects. The results showed that intensive running caused significant cartilage damage and osteoarthritis development, with serum keratan sulfate levels peaking at 3-4 weeks as cartilage breakdown occurred. Weekly intraarticular hyaluronan injections successfully prevented both the cartilage damage and the rise in serum keratan sulfate, suggesting this biomarker could be useful for monitoring early osteoarthritis and treatment responses.

EFFECTS OF STRETCHING VELOCITY ON PASSIVE RESISTANCE DEVELOPED BY THE KNEE MUSCULO-ARTICULAR COMPLEX: CONTRIBUTIONS OF FRICTIONAL AND VISCOELASTIC BEHAVIOURS.

DOI: 10.1007/s00421-008-0695-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:48:53
This study investigated how stretching speed affects the passive resistance of knee joint tissues to better understand the mechanical properties of the musculo-articular complex (MAC). Nine participants performed passive knee movements at five different speeds (5-120°/s) using a dynamometer, while researchers measured torque, energy storage, and energy dissipation. The results showed that passive torque, elastic energy storage, and energy dissipation all increased linearly with stretching speed (17-23% increases), but the increases were relatively modest. These findings suggest that the knee's passive tissues behave more like a combination of friction and limited viscosity rather than exhibiting strong viscoelastic properties, which could inform the development of better biomechanical models for clinical and research applications.

LUBRICIN DISTRIBUTION IN THE GOAT INFRASPINATUS TENDON: A BASIS FOR INTERFASCICULAR LUBRICATION.

DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.G.00627 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:48:46
This study aimed to investigate the distribution of lubricin, a lubricating protein, within the infraspinatus tendon of the rotator cuff to understand its role in tendon mechanics and potential implications for degenerative disorders. Researchers used immunohistochemistry and histological staining to analyze lubricin distribution in infraspinatus tendons from eight goats, along with patellar tendons as controls, and measured fascicle characteristics using polarized light microscopy. The key finding was that lubricin was prominently located in the layers separating fascicles (bundles of collagen fibers) within the infraspinatus tendon, particularly near the bone insertion site, while patellar tendons showed minimal lubricin staining. The results suggest that lubricin facilitates sliding between fascicles during tendon loading, supported by evidence that fascicle crimp patterns vary by location, indicating differential movement between fascicles during mechanical stress.

EFFECTS OF SUSTAINED INTERSTITIAL FLUID PRESSURIZATION UNDER MIGRATING CONTACT AREA, AND BOUNDARY LUBRICATION BY SYNOVIAL FLUID, ON CARTILAGE FRICTION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2008.02.020 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:48:40
This study investigated two key mechanisms of cartilage lubrication: sustained interstitial fluid pressurization and boundary lubrication by synovial fluid. The researchers conducted five experiments on bovine knee joints, comparing friction under migrating versus stationary contact areas, testing synovial fluid versus saline, and examining the effects of sliding velocity and joint congruence. The main findings showed that migrating contact areas maintained low friction coefficients for at least one hour under sustained loading, while interstitial fluid pressurization was extremely effective (reducing friction 60-fold compared to equilibrium conditions), far outperforming synovial fluid's more modest 1.5-fold improvement. These results suggest that maintaining cartilage mechanical integrity is crucial for joint lubrication, and that lubricant injections may have limited effectiveness in treating degenerated joints where this integrity is compromised.

DIFFERENTIAL BEHAVIOR OF AURICULAR AND ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES IN HYALURONIC ACID HYDROGELS.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2007.0291 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:48:27
This study compared the behavior of chondrocytes from ear (auricular) and joint (articular) cartilage when grown in hyaluronic acid hydrogels for cartilage tissue engineering applications. The researchers encapsulated both cell types in hydrogels and evaluated them through in vivo implantation, in vitro culture, and mechanical loading experiments, measuring properties like tissue growth, mechanical strength, and gene expression. The key findings showed that auricular chondrocytes produced better tissue-engineered cartilage with visible growth, improved mechanical properties, and increased matrix production, while articular chondrocytes showed minimal improvements and remained largely unchanged. Interestingly, articular chondrocytes responded more dramatically to mechanical stimulation than auricular chondrocytes, suggesting that the cell source and environmental conditions significantly influence the success of cartilage tissue engineering approaches.

COLLAGENOUS MICROSTRUCTURE OF THE GLENOID LABRUM AND BICEPS ANCHOR.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2008.00904.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:48:21
This study aimed to characterize the detailed collagen microstructure of the glenoid labrum and biceps anchor to better understand their mechanical properties and function. The researchers used three advanced microscopy techniques—transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and confocal microscopy—to examine the collagen fiber organization at different scales. The analysis revealed a highly organized, three-zone structure: a superficial mesh layer that likely reduces friction, a dense circumferential braided core designed to handle hoop stresses, and a loosely packed peri-core zone, with two distinct types of collagen fibrils having different diameters and mechanical properties. These findings suggest the labrum's microstructure is specifically adapted to accommodate different types of mechanical loading, which could inform surgical decision-making and repair strategies for shoulder injuries.

EFFECTS OF EXERCISE VS EXPERIMENTAL OSTEOARTHRITIS ON IMAGING OUTCOMES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2008.04.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:48:14
This study aimed to distinguish imaging changes caused by osteoarthritis from those due to normal exercise adaptation using a controlled horse model. Sixteen horses were divided into exercise-only and exercise plus induced osteoarthritis groups (via osteochondral fragment creation), with both groups undergoing 91 days of treadmill exercise while being monitored with multiple imaging techniques including radiography, nuclear scintigraphy, CT, and MRI. The osteoarthritis group showed significantly greater changes in clinical symptoms and imaging parameters, particularly increased bone breakdown on radiographs, higher nuclear uptake, and bone edema on MRI, with bone edema being strongly correlated with collagen breakdown markers in joint fluid. The findings demonstrate that osteoarthritis produces distinctive imaging changes beyond normal exercise adaptations, with MRI-detected bone edema serving as a particularly sensitive marker that correlates well with biochemical indicators of cartilage damage.

DESIGN OF GRADED BIOMIMETIC OSTEOCHONDRAL COMPOSITE SCAFFOLDS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2008.05.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:48:07
This study aimed to develop a multi-layered composite scaffold that mimics the natural structure of osteochondral tissue (cartilage and underlying bone) for repairing joint defects. The researchers created a three-layer scaffold using a biomimetic mineralization process: a lower layer of mineralized collagen (mimicking subchondral bone), an upper layer of hyaluronic acid-charged collagen (mimicking cartilage), and an intermediate layer with reduced mineralization (mimicking the natural boundary between bone and cartilage). Testing showed that the scaffold successfully guided tissue-specific formation, with chondrocytes producing cartilage tissue selectively in the upper layer during in vitro culture, and bone marrow stromal cells forming bone tissue confined to the lower layer when implanted in mice. The scaffold's ability to differentially support both cartilage and bone formation suggests it could be a promising material for treating osteochondral defects in clinical applications.

DIFFERENCES IN INTERLEUKIN-1 RESPONSE BETWEEN ENGINEERED AND NATIVE CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2007.0347 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:48:01
This study investigated how engineered cartilage constructs respond to inflammatory conditions compared to native cartilage, specifically examining their susceptibility to interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1α) exposure. The researchers cultured bovine chondrocytes in agarose hydrogel for different time periods (0, 14, and 28 days) and compared their response to IL-1α treatment against native cartilage explants, using both regular and anti-inflammatory (dexamethasone-supplemented) culture conditions. The key finding was that early-stage engineered cartilage (days 0 and 14) failed to develop when exposed to IL-1α, while both native cartilage explants and more mature engineered tissue (day 28) could withstand the same inflammatory challenge without losing their properties. The results suggest that engineered cartilage constructs require sufficient in vitro preconditioning time to develop adequate mechanical and chemical resilience before implantation into the inflammatory joint environment.

A STUDY OF PRECONDITIONED KRYLOV SUBSPACE METHODS WITH REORDERING FOR LINEAR SYSTEMS FROM A BIPHASIC V-P FINITE ELEMENT FORMULATION.

DOI: 10.1080/10255840601086416 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:47:54
This study aimed to identify the most efficient computational methods for solving complex mathematical equations that arise when modeling soft, water-containing tissues like cartilage in joints using biphasic finite element models. The researchers tested three different iterative solution methods (GMRES, TFQMR, and BICGSTAB) combined with various matrix reordering techniques and compared their performance based on speed, memory usage, and convergence. The key finding was that the choice of reordering scheme had a greater impact on computational performance than the choice of solution method, with BICGSTAB combined with one-way dissection reordering proving most efficient. The optimized computational approach was successfully applied to simulate contact between cartilage layers in the shoulder joint, revealing important pressure and stress distributions that demonstrate the value of biphasic modeling for understanding tissue mechanics.

MATRIX DEVELOPMENT IN SELF-ASSEMBLY OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0002795 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:47:46
This study investigated how engineered cartilage tissue develops over time using a self-assembly approach that mimics natural cartilage formation. The researchers analyzed cartilage constructs at multiple time points (1-56 days) using histological, biochemical, and mechanical testing methods to track changes in collagen types, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and tissue properties. Key findings showed that the engineered tissue followed natural developmental patterns, with collagen type II increasing over time, collagen type VI becoming localized around cells by 4 weeks, and mechanical properties peaking at 4 weeks before plateauing. The results suggest that while self-assembly successfully recreates early cartilage development, additional stimulation may be needed after 4 weeks to further enhance the functional properties of these engineered cartilage replacements.

REGULATION OF THE FRICTION COEFFICIENT OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE BY TGF-BETA1 AND IL-1BETA.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.20713 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:47:40
This study investigated how two inflammatory cytokines, TGF-β1 and IL-1β, affect the friction properties of articular cartilage. The researchers treated cartilage samples with these cytokines and measured friction coefficients using a pin-on-disk tribometer, while also analyzing superficial zone protein (SZP) levels and surface roughness. Both cytokines unexpectedly decreased cartilage friction, but through different mechanisms: TGF-β1 worked by increasing SZP penetration depth in the superficial cartilage layer, while IL-1β reduced friction by altering surface roughness rather than affecting SZP distribution. These findings reveal that cartilage lubrication is controlled by multiple factors and can be modified by inflammatory mediators, providing new insights into how joint diseases might affect cartilage function.

SITE-SPECIFIC EFFECTS OF COMPRESSION ON MACROMOLECULAR DIFFUSION IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1529/biophysj.108.137752 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:47:34
This study investigated how mechanical compression affects the movement of large molecules through different zones of articular cartilage. The researchers used advanced fluorescence techniques to measure diffusion coefficients and directional transport patterns of 70 kDa dextran molecules in cartilage samples under compression, while simultaneously tracking local tissue deformation. They found that compression consistently reduced molecular diffusion across all cartilage zones, with every 10% increase in compression strain decreasing diffusivity by 16%. Additionally, compression made molecular transport more directionally restricted (anisotropic) in the surface and middle zones of cartilage, but not in the deep zone, suggesting that the surface zone experiences the greatest impairment in nutrient transport during joint loading.

CONCEPTUALISATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AS A GIANT REVERSE MICELLE: A HYPOTHETICAL MECHANISM FOR JOINT BIOCUSHIONING AND LUBRICATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.biosystems.2008.05.028 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:47:28
This study proposes a novel theoretical model conceptualizing articular cartilage as a "giant reverse micelle" (GRM) to explain joint lubrication and cushioning mechanisms. The researchers tested this hypothesis by measuring the electrokinetic properties of phospholipid membranes using microelectrophoresis to determine surface charge density under various ionic conditions that mimic joint environments. They found that phospholipid membranes had a surface charge density of -0.08 cm⁻² in physiological saline, which decreased five-fold in higher salt concentrations and was further reduced by 30% when synovial fluid was added due to macromolecule binding. The findings support their proposed hydrophilic-hydrophilic lubrication model, suggesting that electrically charged phospholipid networks in cartilage can resist compression and provide lamellar cushioning through electrostatic interactions and ion stabilization.

OSTEOCHONDRAL INJURY INCREASES TYPE II COLLAGEN DEGRADATION PRODUCTS (C2C) IN SYNOVIAL FLUID OF THOROUGHBRED RACEHORSES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2008.07.014 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:47:20
This study investigated whether measuring type II collagen breakdown products (C2C) in joint fluid could help detect cartilage damage in racehorses. The researchers collected synovial fluid from horse joints in three groups: rested horses, the same horses after race training, and horses with confirmed osteochondral injuries, then measured C2C levels and compared them to X-ray and arthroscopic injury scores.

The key finding was that horses with osteochondral injuries had significantly higher C2C levels in their joint fluid compared to both rested and exercised horses, and these C2C levels correlated well with the severity of joint damage seen on imaging and arthroscopy. The study identified specific C2C threshold values (≥64 pmol/ml for fetlock joints, ≥75 pmol/ml for carpal joints) that could distinguish injured joints from healthy ones, suggesting that C2C analysis could serve as a useful biomarker for detecting joint injury in horses.

DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF A NOVEL BIOREACTOR SYSTEM FOR LOAD- AND PERFUSION-CONTROLLED TISSUE ENGINEERING OF CHONDROCYTE-CONSTRUCTS.

DOI: 10.1002/bit.21955 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:47:13
This study developed and validated a novel bioreactor system designed to improve cartilage tissue engineering by combining mechanical loading with nutrient perfusion under sterile conditions. The system features a contactless magnetic actuator for applying controlled mechanical forces to tissue constructs, real-time monitoring of mechanical properties, and continuous medium perfusion at 0.5 mL/min flow rate. Testing with chondrocyte-seeded agarose gels over 21 days demonstrated that the system maintained sterility and cell viability while successfully applying mechanical stimulation. The perfusion-induced shear stress significantly increased sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) production, a key cartilage component, as confirmed by biochemical assays and histological staining, indicating enhanced cartilage matrix formation.

ANALGESIC AND CHONDROPROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF RISEDRONATE IN OSTEOARTHRITIS ASSESSED BY ELECTROALGOMETRY AND MEASUREMENT OF COLLAGEN TYPE II FRAGMENTS IN URINE.

DOI: 10.1177/147323000803600509 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:47:07
This study investigated whether risedronate (a bisphosphonate) could reduce pain and protect cartilage in knee osteoarthritis patients. The researchers randomized 33 patients to receive either risedronate plus calcium or calcium alone, measuring pain using both visual rating scales and electroalgometry (skin impedance changes), while monitoring urinary collagen type II fragments as a marker of cartilage breakdown. The study found that pain reduction measured by skin impedance (but not visual scales) was associated with decreased collagen fragment excretion, suggesting that risedronate's pain-relieving effects may be linked to its ability to slow cartilage degradation. The findings indicate that electroalgometry may be a more physiologically relevant pain assessment tool than subjective rating scales in osteoarthritis research.

OSTEOARTHRITIS AND OBESITY: EXPERIMENTAL MODELS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2008.07.011 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:47:01
This study reviews experimental models used to investigate the relationship between obesity and osteoarthritis (OA). The authors examine three main research approaches: (1) in vitro testing of cartilage under various mechanical stresses (shear, loading, tensile, and hydrostatic pressure), (2) studying how mechanical forces affect subchondral bone through osteoblast experiments, and (3) investigating the role of adipokines (obesity-related molecules like leptin and resistin) in joint inflammation. The key finding is that obesity's contribution to OA appears more complex than previously thought, involving not only increased mechanical loading on joints but also inflammatory mediators released by fat tissue that may directly promote cartilage breakdown.

EXERCISE-INDUCED METACARPOPHALANGEAL JOINT ADAPTATION IN THE THOROUGHBRED RACEHORSE.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2008.00996.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:46:56
This study examined how racing exercise affects bone and cartilage adaptation in the metacarpophalangeal (fetlock) joint by comparing actively racing Thoroughbreds (n=10) with non-athletic horses (n=8). The researchers used histological analysis to measure multiple variables across five joint regions, including cartilage thickness, microcrack density, blood vessel density, and bone characteristics in the subchondral plate beneath the cartilage.

The main findings showed that racing horses had significantly more microcracks in the condylar grooves compared to other joint areas and compared to non-athletic horses, with some microcracks progressing to stress fractures. Racing horses also developed sclerotic (hardened) subchondral bone with abnormal bone matrix and altered osteocyte (bone cell) appearance, though overall osteocyte numbers were similar between groups.

The study concludes that exercise-induced joint adaptation involves greater site-specific microdamage accumulation and bone remodeling responses rather than simple changes in bone cell numbers, suggesting that multiple cellular pathways beyond osteocyte signaling regulate how joints adapt to repetitive loading.

INTRA-ARTICULAR INJECTIONS OF HYALURONAN SOLUTIONS OF DIFFERENT ELASTOVISCOSITY REDUCE NOCICEPTIVE NERVE ACTIVITY IN A MODEL OF OSTEOARTHRITIC KNEE JOINT OF THE GUINEA PIG.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2008.11.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:46:48
This study investigated whether intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid (HA) products with different viscosities could reduce pain-related nerve activity in guinea pig knees with experimentally induced osteoarthritis. The researchers created an osteoarthritis model by surgically damaging the meniscus and cruciate ligament, then recorded nerve impulses from pain-sensing fibers while moving the knee joint before and after injecting two different HA products: HYADD 4-G (high viscosity) and Hyalgan (low viscosity). Both HA products significantly reduced the heightened nerve activity caused by joint movement in the osteoarthritic knees, with Hyalgan showing greater effectiveness despite its lower viscosity. The findings suggest that HA injections reduce joint pain through both mechanical effects related to their lubricating properties and direct chemical effects on sensitized nerve endings, with the latter potentially being more important than viscosity alone.

GENE EXPRESSION PROFILES OF DYNAMICALLY COMPRESSED SINGLE CHONDROCYTES AND CHONDRONS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2008.12.111 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:46:41
This study investigated how the pericellular matrix (PCM) - the gel-like coating around cartilage cells - affects how chondrocytes respond to mechanical loading. The researchers compared gene expression changes in isolated single chondrocytes versus chondrons (chondrocytes with their PCM intact) after applying dynamic compression. The results showed that chondrons with intact PCM had significantly increased expression of key cartilage matrix genes (aggrecan, type II collagen, and osteopontin) compared to isolated chondrocytes, while lubricin expression decreased in both cell types. These findings demonstrate that the PCM plays a crucial role in how cartilage cells sense and respond to mechanical forces, which has important implications for understanding cartilage health and disease.

ALTERATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE FRICTIONAL PROPERTIES BY TRANSFORMING GROWTH FACTOR BETA, INTERLEUKIN-1BETA, AND ONCOSTATIN M.

DOI: 10.1002/art.24259 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:46:36
This study investigated how three inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β1, IL-1β, and oncostatin M) affect the frictional properties of articular cartilage. The researchers cultured neonatal bovine cartilage explants with these cytokines for 48 hours and performed boundary lubrication tests to measure friction coefficients, while also testing the effects of adding lubricin (a key joint lubricant) to the tissue surface. IL-1β and oncostatin M both decreased cartilage stiffness and glycosaminoglycan content by approximately 20%, which corresponded to increased initial friction, while TGF-β1 had no significant effects. The study revealed that cartilage has two distinct lubrication mechanisms: boundary lubrication (controlled by surface lubricants like lubricin) and biphasic lubrication (controlled by factors like GAG content that affect fluid movement through the tissue).

IN VITRO STAGE-SPECIFIC CHONDROGENESIS OF MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS COMMITTED TO CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1002/art.24265 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:46:30
This study aimed to develop a preconditioning method for mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to improve their effectiveness for cartilage regeneration therapies, since direct implantation of untreated MSCs has shown unpredictable results. The researchers used a coculture system where human MSCs were grown together with fluorescently-labeled chondrocytes (cartilage cells) to guide the stem cells toward cartilage formation, then analyzed the molecular changes during this process and tested the cells' ability to form new cartilage in collagen scaffolds. The coculture successfully committed MSCs to become cartilage-producing cells, activating key cartilage genes and growth factors (including TGF-β family members) while avoiding bone formation, and these preconditioned cells demonstrated improved ability to form cartilage-like tissue in scaffolds. This preconditioning approach represents a promising advancement for developing more reliable MSC-based treatments for cartilage repair in conditions like osteoarthritis.

HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING: FROM CHONDROCYTES TO TISSUE REGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2008.0435 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:46:23
This review examines the use of hydrostatic pressure (HP) as a mechanical stimulus to improve cartilage tissue engineering approaches, given cartilage's limited natural healing capacity and the inadequacy of current treatments. The authors systematically evaluated existing studies that applied HP to cartilage cells and tissues, analyzing various treatment protocols, bioreactor designs, and culture systems. Key findings indicate that HP can protect cartilage cells from damage, promote the transformation of stem cells into cartilage-producing cells, and enhance tissue properties, though no standardized optimal treatment protocol has been established across different experimental setups. The review identifies HP as one of the most promising mechanical stimuli for cartilage regeneration and highlights important considerations for future research, including equipment design and understanding how cells sense and respond to pressure changes.

ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES EXPRESS CONNEXIN 43 HEMICHANNELS AND P2 RECEPTORS - A PUTATIVE MECHANORECEPTOR COMPLEX INVOLVING THE PRIMARY CILIUM?

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2008.01021.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:46:16
This study investigated how cartilage cells (chondrocytes) sense and respond to mechanical loading by examining potential mechanosensitive pathways involving ATP release and detection. The researchers used bovine and human chondrocytes to test for functional connexin 43 hemichannels (ATP-release channels) using dye uptake assays, and employed immunofluorescence microscopy to locate these channels and purine receptors within cartilage tissue.

Key findings showed that chondrocytes express functional connexin 43 hemichannels, with approximately 50% of the cells' primary cilia decorated with these channels, and that hemichannel expression was concentrated in the upper 200 micrometers of human cartilage closest to the joint surface. The study also confirmed the presence of various P2X and P2Y receptors that can detect ATP, supporting a mechanotransduction pathway where mechanical loading triggers ATP release through hemichannels, which then activates downstream cellular responses to maintain cartilage health.

MECHANOTHERAPY: HOW PHYSICAL THERAPISTS' PRESCRIPTION OF EXERCISE PROMOTES TISSUE REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1136/bjsm.2008.054239 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:46:09
This paper aims to explain the scientific mechanisms underlying how prescribed exercise promotes tissue healing in musculoskeletal injuries. The authors provide a narrative review of mechanotransduction - the process by which cells sense and respond to mechanical loads - and introduce the term "mechanotherapy" to specifically describe therapeutic exercise prescription for tissue repair (as distinct from normal tissue maintenance). The review examines how mechanical loading stimulates repair and remodeling in tendons, muscles, cartilage, and bone at the cellular level. The authors demonstrate that mechanotransduction is the fundamental biological process that converts prescribed movement into therapeutic tissue healing, providing clinicians with a scientific foundation for exercise-based treatments of conditions like tendinopathies, muscle injuries, arthropathies, and fractures.

[EFFECT OF POWER TRAINING ON ARTICULAR CARTILAGE].

DOI: 10.1007/s00113-009-1620-3 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:46:03
This study examined the effects of power training on articular cartilage structure and function. The authors analyzed cartilage biomechanics, focusing on water transfer mechanisms regulated by proteoglycans and the risk of collagen matrix damage under excessive compression. The key finding is that power training should maintain submaximal loading below the cartilage rupture limit, as cartilage has limited adaptive capacity compared to other tissues. The authors emphasize that osteoarthritic cartilage has significantly reduced loading capacity, requiring careful consideration when designing power training programs for individuals with joint degeneration.

FIBROBLAST GROWTH FACTOR 2 IS AN INTRINSIC CHONDROPROTECTIVE AGENT THAT SUPPRESSES ADAMTS-5 AND DELAYS CARTILAGE DEGRADATION IN MURINE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1002/art.24654 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:45:57
This study investigated whether fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) protects cartilage from osteoarthritis (OA) damage in living mice. The researchers compared cartilage health in mice lacking FGF-2 (knockout mice) versus normal mice, using both natural aging and surgically-induced OA models, and measured cartilage structure, gene expression, and mechanical properties.

Mice without FGF-2 developed more severe cartilage damage in both spontaneous and surgically-induced OA, with increased levels of ADAMTS-5, a key enzyme that breaks down cartilage. Importantly, giving recombinant FGF-2 injections to FGF-2 knockout mice restored cartilage protection to normal levels, confirming that FGF-2 acts as a natural defense mechanism against cartilage degradation in osteoarthritis.

MODULATION OF HYALURONAN CATABOLISM IN CHONDROCYTES BY MECHANICAL STIMULI.

DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.32540 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:45:51
This study investigated how excessive mechanical loading affects hyaluronan (HA) breakdown in cartilage cells, focusing on the enzymes that degrade this important cartilage component. The researchers applied excessive cyclic tensile loading (22.8% cell elongation) to cultured rabbit knee cartilage cells and measured the expression of HA-degrading enzymes (HYAL1 and HYAL2) and inflammatory markers (IL-1β and TNF-α) using molecular techniques. The results showed that excessive mechanical loading significantly increased both the expression of HA-degrading enzymes and their activity, while also upregulating inflammatory markers, particularly IL-1β. The findings suggest that excessive mechanical stress promotes cartilage breakdown by enhancing HA degradation, partly through inflammatory pathways involving IL-1β.

MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS IN REGENERATIVE MEDICINE: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND INTERVERTEBRAL DISC TISSUE ENGINEERING.

DOI: 10.1002/jcp.21915 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:45:44
This review examines the potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as an alternative to current cell-based therapies for repairing damaged articular cartilage and intervertebral disc tissue. The authors conducted a comprehensive literature review to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of using MSCs in tissue engineering applications for these load-bearing connective tissues. The main findings highlight that while MSCs offer promise as a regenerative therapy, significant challenges remain including the harsh physiological environment these cells must survive in (hypoxic, acidic, nutrient-poor conditions with inflammatory mediators and mechanical stress) and difficulties in properly differentiating and conditioning the cells before implantation. The review also identifies MSC culture models as potentially valuable alternatives to animal testing in arthritis research, supporting the "3Rs" principle of reducing, replacing, and refining animal use in scientific studies.

FUNCTIONAL ALTERATIONS IN MECHANICAL LOADING OF CONDYLAR CARTILAGE INDUCES CHANGES IN THE BONY SUBCONDYLAR REGION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2009.08.010 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:45:35
This study investigated how changes in jaw function and mechanical loading affect the bone beneath cartilage in the temporomandibular joint. The researchers used young rats with different chewing loads and examined specific molecular signaling pathways (JNK/ERK-AP-1/RUNX2) in the jaw joint tissues using immunohistochemistry. The key finding was that altered mechanical loading activated important cellular signaling pathways in the bone cells located beneath the cartilage, including JNK-c-JUN, c-FOS, ERK/MAPK, and RUNX2 pathways. These results demonstrate that mechanical forces applied to cartilage are transmitted to and sensed by the underlying bone, triggering cellular responses that regulate bone formation and remodeling.

PROGRESSIVE CHONDROCYTE DEATH AFTER IMPACT INJURY INDICATES A NEED FOR CHONDROPROTECTIVE THERAPY.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546509348840 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:45:29
This study investigated whether cartilage cell death occurs after joint impacts that don't cause visible surface damage, and how injury patterns change with impact force and time. Researchers used bovine cartilage samples subjected to controlled impacts at different energy levels (0.35-1.43 J), then measured cell death at 1 and 4 days post-impact using fluorescent staining. The key findings showed that even impacts too weak to fracture the cartilage surface still caused significant cell death, which worsened over time and increased with higher impact energies, particularly near the bone-cartilage boundary and joint surface. These results suggest that early protective treatments may be needed after joint injuries to prevent cartilage cell death and reduce the risk of developing post-traumatic arthritis.

CYCLIC LOADING OPENS HEMICHANNELS TO RELEASE ATP AS PART OF A CHONDROCYTE MECHANOTRANSDUCTION PATHWAY.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.21025 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:45:23
This study investigated how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) sense and respond to mechanical forces, specifically testing whether cyclic compression opens cellular channels called hemichannels to release ATP. The researchers used a chondrocyte-agarose model system and applied cyclic compression (0-15% strain at 1 Hz for 40 minutes), measuring hemichannel opening with fluorescent dye uptake and ATP release using biochemical assays. The results showed that mechanical loading increased hemichannel opening from 50% to 70% of cells and produced a sevenfold increase in ATP release, both of which were blocked by a hemichannel inhibitor. This study provides the first evidence that hemichannels play a key role in how cartilage cells detect and respond to mechanical forces, which is important for understanding cartilage health and disease.

DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF A MOTION AND LOADING SYSTEM FOR A RAT KNEE JOINT IN VIVO.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-009-9865-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:45:16
This study developed and validated a computer-controlled joint motion and loading system (JMLS) to investigate how mechanical forces affect cartilage biology in living rat knee joints. The researchers tested the system's accuracy and reliability in controlling joint movement, loading frequency, and compressive forces, then evaluated its effectiveness using two loading protocols: moderate passive motion loading (PML) and increased compressive motion loading (CML). The system demonstrated high accuracy and successfully showed that moderate passive motion prevented the harmful effects of joint immobilization on cartilage, while excessive compressive loading produced detrimental effects similar to immobilization. This non-invasive system provides researchers with a precise tool to study how different mechanical conditions affect joint health in living animals.

EFFECT OF EXERCISE AND OSTEOCHONDRAL INJURY ON SYNOVIAL FLUID AND SERUM CONCENTRATIONS OF CARBOXY-TERMINAL TELOPEPTIDE FRAGMENTS OF TYPE II COLLAGEN IN RACEHORSES.

DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.71.1.33 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:45:10
This study investigated whether measuring CTX-II (a marker of cartilage breakdown) in blood and joint fluid could help detect cartilage damage in racehorses. The researchers analyzed 78 Thoroughbred racehorses, comparing CTX-II levels in healthy horses before and after 5-6 months of race training with levels in horses that had joint injuries, and correlated these findings with X-ray and arthroscopic assessments of joint damage. Horses with joint injuries had significantly higher CTX-II concentrations in their joint fluid and higher joint fluid-to-blood CTX-II ratios compared to healthy horses, while blood CTX-II levels were lower after exercise and injury. The CTX-II measurements could correctly identify 64-93% of samples as coming from pre-exercise, post-exercise, or injured horses, suggesting these biomarkers may be useful for detecting cartilage damage, though they didn't correlate with the severity of injury seen on imaging.

MACROSCOPIC ASSESSMENT OF CARTILAGE SHEAR: EFFECTS OF COUNTER-SURFACE ROUGHNESS, SYNOVIAL FLUID LUBRICANT, AND COMPRESSION OFFSET.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2010.02.014 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:44:56
This study aimed to understand how different surface and lubrication conditions affect cartilage shear mechanics during joint movement using an in vitro testing system. The researchers tested human talar cartilage samples against surfaces of varying roughness (polished, mildly rough, and rough) using two different lubricants (phosphate buffered saline and bovine synovial fluid) under different compression and sliding conditions. The results showed that rougher surfaces and higher compression increased peak shear stress and strain on the cartilage, while synovial fluid provided better lubrication than saline solution, particularly against smooth surfaces (reducing shear stress by 50% vs. only 14-17% against rough surfaces). This experimental system provides researchers with a controlled method to study how cartilage responds to different mechanical loading conditions, which could help understand cartilage damage and repair mechanisms in joint diseases.

MULTIPHYSICAL MODELLING OF FLUID TRANSPORT THROUGH OSTEO-ARTICULAR MEDIA.

DOI: 10.1590/s0001-37652010000100011 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:44:49
This study aimed to develop a multiphysical model to describe fluid transport through bone and joint tissues by adapting existing clayey materials models to musculoskeletal applications. The researchers used a multiscale modeling approach that coupled electrohydrodynamics equations with electrostatics and ionic transport at the microscopic pore level, then applied mathematical techniques (variable changes and asymptotic expansion) to derive macroscopic tissue behavior from this microscopic information. The model successfully demonstrated that coupled electrochemical and mechanical effects play an important role in mechanotransduction processes that drive bone remodeling in compact bone. This work provides a theoretical framework for understanding how fluid flow and electrical phenomena interact to influence bone adaptation at the tissue level.

THE EFFECT OF HYBRIDIZATION OF HYDROGELS AND POLY(L-LACTIDE-CO-EPSILON-CAPROLACTONE) SCAFFOLDS ON CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING.

DOI: 10.1163/156856209X430579 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:44:43
This study aimed to develop hybrid scaffolds combining hydrogels with synthetic polymers to overcome the mechanical weakness of hydrogels alone for cartilage tissue engineering. The researchers created scaffolds by combining poly(L-lactide-co-epsilon-caprolactone) (PLCL) with either fibrin gel or hyaluronan hydrogels, seeded them with rabbit chondrocytes, and implanted them subcutaneously in nude mice for up to eight weeks. The hybrid scaffolds showed improved cell seeding efficiency compared to PLCL alone and enhanced accumulation of cartilaginous extracellular matrix in vivo. The findings suggest that combining hydrogels with PLCL scaffolds creates a more biomimetic environment that promotes better cartilage tissue formation and quality compared to using either material alone.

DIFFERENT MECHANICAL LOADING PROTOCOLS INFLUENCE SERUM CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN LEVELS IN YOUNG HEALTHY HUMANS.

DOI: 10.1007/s00421-010-1529-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:44:38
This study investigated how different types of physical activity affect blood levels of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), a biomarker of cartilage metabolism, in healthy young men. The researchers tested four conditions on separate days: high-impact running, slow deep knee bends, lymphatic drainage, and rest, measuring COMP levels at 20 time points over 7 hours using blood tests. High-impact running immediately increased COMP levels in the blood, while slow knee bends and lymphatic drainage had no effect, and complete rest actually decreased COMP levels. The findings suggest that only high-impact loading releases COMP fragments from cartilage into the bloodstream, likely reflecting the mechanical stress on joint cartilage during impact activities.

EFFECT OF A FOCAL ARTICULAR DEFECT ON CARTILAGE DEFORMATION DURING PATELLO-FEMORAL ARTICULATION.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.21187 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:44:31
This study investigated how focal cartilage defects alter the mechanical strains experienced by surrounding cartilage during knee joint movement. The researchers used bovine knee joint samples (patella and trochlea) under controlled compression and sliding conditions, measuring cartilage deformation with video microscopy in both intact cartilage and cartilage with artificially created full-thickness defects.

The results showed that cartilage defects dramatically altered strain patterns in surrounding areas, with some regions experiencing 2-8 times lower shear strains while others had up to 25 times higher lateral strains compared to intact cartilage. These findings suggest that focal cartilage defects create abnormal mechanical stress concentrations in neighboring healthy cartilage, which may explain how small defects progressively enlarge and contribute to osteoarthritis development.

DUTY CYCLE OF DEFORMATIONAL LOADING INFLUENCES THE GROWTH OF ENGINEERED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1007/s12195-009-0070-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:44:24
This study investigated how different loading durations (duty cycles) affect the mechanical properties of tissue-engineered cartilage constructs grown in bioreactors over one month. The researchers compared three loading protocols: intermittent loading (1 hour on/1 hour off for 3 total hours), 3 hours continuous loading, and 6 hours continuous loading, all performed 5 days per week. All loading groups showed improved stiffness (Young's modulus) compared to unloaded controls, but only the continuous 3- and 6-hour protocols significantly enhanced dynamic modulus. The study found that longer continuous loading periods promoted better cartilage matrix formation, including increased collagen types II and IX and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), while preventing unwanted fibrous tissue formation around the constructs.

HISTOPOMORPHIC EVALUATION OF RADIOFREQUENCY MEDIATED DÉBRIDEMENT CHONDROPLASTY.

DOI: 10.2174/1874325001004010211 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:44:19
This study aimed to evaluate how different radiofrequency energy delivery methods affect cartilage tissue during débridement chondroplasty procedures. The researchers tested three radiofrequency systems (monopolar ablation, bipolar ablation, and non-ablation energy) on damaged cartilage specimens from patients undergoing knee replacement surgery, then analyzed the tissue changes using histological examination. While all three systems successfully removed fibrillated cartilage, the ablation-based systems caused significant collateral damage including tissue death and corruption of healthy cartilage layers, whereas the non-ablation system preserved the cartilage structure and created a smooth surface without killing healthy cells. The findings suggest that non-ablation radiofrequency systems may be superior for cartilage débridement procedures as they achieve the clinical goal while avoiding additional tissue damage that could worsen the cartilage condition.

EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTS OF A SUPPLEMENTARY DIET CONTAINING CHICKEN COMB EXTRACT ON SYMPTOMS AND CARTILAGE METABOLISM IN PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.3892/etm.2010.114 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:44:13
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated whether a chicken comb extract (CCE) supplement rich in hyaluronic acid could improve symptoms and cartilage metabolism in 43 patients with mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis over 16 weeks. Participants received either 1,800 mg/day of CCE supplement (containing ~60 mg hyaluronic acid) or placebo, with some patients also receiving concurrent exercise therapy. The CCE supplement significantly improved pain and walking function compared to placebo, with benefits most pronounced in patients who also received exercise therapy. Additionally, the supplement appeared to shift cartilage metabolism toward a more favorable balance, with increased collagen synthesis relative to degradation as measured by blood and urine biomarkers.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: STRUCTURE AND REGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.TEB.2010.0191 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:44:06
This review examines the structure of articular cartilage and approaches for repairing cartilage damage. The authors describe cartilage as a fiber-composite material consisting of type II collagen fibrils that reinforce a highly hydrated proteoglycan gel, with water comprising 70% of the tissue. They explain that cartilage has very limited self-repair capacity, and untreated lesions can progress to osteoarthritis, though autologous chondrocyte transplantation has shown promise for long-term repair of isolated defects. The key finding is that cartilage's unique biomechanical properties—including load distribution and low-friction joint movement—stem from how proteoglycans and collagen structure and retain water within the tissue matrix.

BIOTRIBOLOGICAL AND BIOMECHANICAL CHANGES AFTER EXPERIMENTAL HAEMARTHROSIS IN THE RABBIT KNEE.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2516.2010.02375.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:44:01
This study investigated how repeated blood exposure in joints (haemarthrosis) affects cartilage structure and function using a rabbit model relevant to hemophilic arthropathy. Researchers injected 1 mL of autologous blood into rabbit knee joints twice weekly for four weeks, then measured joint swelling, friction properties (biotribology), and cartilage stiffness (biomechanics) using specialized testing equipment. The results consistently showed that blood exposure damaged cartilage function and increased joint friction compared to untreated control joints. Based on these findings, the authors recommend non-weight bearing and early blood removal from joints following bleeding episodes to minimize cartilage damage.

FLUID LOAD SUPPORT AND CONTACT MECHANICS OF HEMIARTHROPLASTY IN THE NATURAL HIP JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2010.09.009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:43:55
This study investigated how fluid pressure within cartilage supports loads during daily activities in hip joints with hemiarthroplasty (where only the femoral head is replaced with a metal implant). The researchers used computational modeling to analyze contact mechanics during nine daily activities, focusing on fluid load support mechanisms in the remaining natural acetabular cartilage.

The main findings showed that fluid within the cartilage carried approximately 90% of the load during most activities, which helps protect the solid cartilage matrix from high contact stresses. Peak stresses and fluid pressures typically occurred in the superior and lateral regions of the acetabulum, with fluid load support being highest in central contact areas and lower near cartilage edges where fluid could drain more easily.

MECHANICAL LOADING, CARTILAGE DEGRADATION, AND ARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2010.05808.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:43:49
This review examines the relationship between mechanical loading and cartilage health, aiming to understand how mechanical forces influence cartilage maintenance and degradation in arthritis. The authors synthesize existing literature on the mechanisms by which different loading patterns affect cartilage, particularly focusing on the role of inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1 beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha) that stimulate cartilage-degrading enzymes (matrix metalloproteinases and aggrecanases). The key findings highlight that moderate mechanical loading preserves cartilage integrity, while both insufficient use (disuse) and excessive loading (overuse) lead to cartilage breakdown characteristic of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The authors conclude that understanding how physiologic joint loading maintains cartilage health could reveal new therapeutic targets for preventing joint disease, especially given that current enzyme inhibitor approaches have not yet succeeded clinically.

DYNAMIC MECHANICAL ANALYSIS AND BIOMINERALIZATION OF HYALURONAN-POLYETHYLENE COPOLYMERS FOR POTENTIAL USE IN OSTEOCHONDRAL DEFECT REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2010.11.019 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:43:42
This study aimed to develop and evaluate hyaluronan-polyethylene copolymers (HA-co-HDPE) as a novel biomaterial for repairing osteochondral defects in damaged articular cartilage. The researchers fabricated copolymers with varying hyaluronan concentrations (10, 28, and 50 wt.%) and assessed their mechanical properties using dynamic mechanical analysis, while testing biocompatibility and bone-forming potential using bone marrow stromal cells. The materials demonstrated storage moduli ranging from 2.4 to 15.0 MPa at physiological loading frequencies, with mechanical properties significantly influenced by hyaluronan content and crosslinking. The copolymers proved non-toxic to cells and successfully supported mineralization, with calcium and phosphorus deposits forming on the material surface after two weeks of osteogenic cell culture.

CONTINUOUS CYCLIC COMPRESSIVE LOADING MODULATES BIOLOGICAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF COLLAGEN HYDROGELS SEEDED WITH HUMAN CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.3233/BIR-2012-0597 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:43:35
This study aimed to determine whether cyclic compressive loading could improve the biological and mechanical properties of tissue-engineered cartilage using human chondrocytes in collagen hydrogels. The researchers seeded chondrocytes from 12 osteoarthritic knee joints into type I collagen hydrogels and applied continuous cyclic compression (0.3 Hz frequency, 10% strain) for 14 days, then analyzed the resulting tissues using histology, gene expression, and biomechanical testing. The main findings showed that mechanical loading increased the collagen II to collagen I gene expression ratio, suggesting better cartilage-like tissue development, though overall biomechanical properties declined in both loaded and control groups. Despite modest effects, the results indicate that mechanical preconditioning can beneficially influence the biological properties of engineered cartilage constructs.

HIGH AMPLITUDE DIRECT COMPRESSIVE STRAIN ENHANCES MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF SCAFFOLD-FREE TISSUE-ENGINEERED CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.TEA.2010.0395 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:43:27
This study investigated whether mechanical compression could improve the properties of tissue-engineered cartilage by testing different strain amplitudes on scaffold-free cartilage constructs made from porcine chondrocytes. The researchers applied three different compression levels (5%, 10%, and 20% strain) using dynamic loading (1 Hz frequency, 3000 cycles daily) for 14 days in a custom bioreactor, then compared mechanical and biochemical properties against unloaded controls. While compression did not affect the biochemical composition (glycosaminoglycan or collagen content), there was a strong positive correlation between compression amplitude and cartilage stiffness, with 20% strain producing the greatest improvement in Young's modulus (241% increase compared to controls). These findings suggest that high-amplitude mechanical preconditioning could be a promising approach to enhance the mechanical competence of tissue-engineered cartilage without requiring longer cultivation periods.

PHYSICAL STIMULATION OF CHONDROGENIC CELLS IN VITRO: A REVIEW.

DOI: 10.1007/s11999-011-1819-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:43:14
This review aimed to classify different types of bioreactors used for mechanically stimulating cartilage cells and evaluate how these physical forces affect cell behavior in laboratory settings. The authors conducted a systematic literature search focusing on studies that examined cellular responses of stem cells and cartilage cells (chondrocytes) to various mechanical loading patterns in bioreactor systems. The key findings showed that controlled mechanical loading consistently increases the expression of genes associated with healthy cartilage formation, with uniaxial (single-direction) loading producing selective gene upregulation while multiaxial (multi-direction) loading creates broader patterns of beneficial gene expression. The authors concluded that while current bioreactor systems are valuable tools for understanding cartilage cell responses, more complex loading patterns that better mimic natural joint movement are needed to fully replicate the biological processes that occur in living joints.

THE LABRO-ACETABULAR COMPLEX.

DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.J.01710 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:43:07
This study describes the specialized anatomy and function of the labro-acetabular complex at the hip joint rim. The researchers identified that synovial fluid flows in a single direction through this region, powered by bellows-like movements of the zona orbicularis during hip flexion and extension. The study found that hip instability and femoroacetabular impingement are major causes of damage to this complex structure. The authors conclude that effective surgical treatment requires both preserving or reconstructing the labrum and addressing the underlying mechanical problems that caused the initial damage.

MESENCHYMAL AND MECHANICAL MECHANISMS OF SECONDARY CARTILAGE INDUCTION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2011.05.003 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:43:02
This study investigated how mechanical forces and tissue origin control the formation of secondary cartilage, which develops at joints, sutures, and muscle attachment sites (entheses) to facilitate skeletal movement. The researchers used duck and quail embryos as models, employing neural crest cell transplantation to create chimeric "quck" embryos, muscle paralysis experiments, and ion channel blocking to modify mechanical environments. Key findings revealed that secondary cartilage at muscle attachment sites requires different formation mechanisms than cartilage at joints - enthesis cartilage depends on muscle-generated mechanical forces and is controlled by neural crest cell patterning, while joint cartilage relies more on stretch-activated ion channels for proper development. The study demonstrates that neural crest cells regulate both the anatomical patterns that determine mechanical loading and the molecular responses necessary for species-specific secondary cartilage formation.

EFFECTS OF HYDROSTATIC LOADING ON A SELF-AGGREGATING, SUSPENSION CULTURE-DERIVED CARTILAGE TISSUE ANALOG.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603510383686 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:42:55
This study aimed to develop a scaffold-free method for creating cartilage replacement tissue by applying mechanical forces to cultured cartilage cells (chondrocytes) during their growth phase. The researchers used a specialized bioreactor system to apply hydrostatic pressure to high-density suspension cultures of unpassaged chondrocytes, allowing the cells to naturally aggregate without any foreign materials or scaffolds. The key finding was that physiologically relevant hydrostatic loading significantly increased the expression of important cartilage genes, including collagen and aggrecan, resulting in a biomaterial that closely resembled natural hyaline cartilage. This scaffold-free approach represents a promising advancement in cartilage tissue engineering with potential clinical applications for cartilage repair.

SPINAL FACET JOINT BIOMECHANICS AND MECHANOTRANSDUCTION IN NORMAL, INJURY AND DEGENERATIVE CONDITIONS.

DOI: 10.1115/1.4004493 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:42:50
This comprehensive review aims to synthesize current knowledge of spinal facet joint biomechanics and mechanotransduction across normal, injured, and degenerative conditions. The authors examined experimental, computational, and clinical studies focusing on the anatomy, biomechanics, and physiological responses of facet joint tissues (cartilage, ligaments, and bone) from tissue-level down to cellular scales. The review highlights that while facet joints are crucial for spinal load transfer and motion guidance, they have received less research attention compared to intervertebral discs, despite their importance in spinal dysfunction following injury, degeneration, or surgical intervention. The findings emphasize that understanding mechanotransduction pathways in facet joint tissues is essential for comprehending how mechanical loading affects spinal health and disease progression.

MECHANICALLY INDUCED CALCIUM SIGNALING IN CHONDROCYTES IN SITU.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.21536 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:42:44
This study investigated how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) respond to mechanical loading through calcium signaling while remaining in their natural cartilage environment. The researchers used real-time calcium imaging to monitor intracellular calcium changes in chondrocytes within intact cartilage tissue during dynamic mechanical loading at different temperatures (21°C and 37°C). The key findings showed that calcium responses were stronger and shorter-lasting at body temperature (37°C), occurred more frequently during active loading phases, and were virtually instantaneous compared to the delayed responses seen in isolated cells grown in artificial gels. These results suggest that the natural extracellular matrix environment plays a crucial role in how cartilage cells sense and respond to mechanical forces, which may be lost when studying isolated cells in laboratory conditions.

HYDROGEL DESIGN FOR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING: A CASE STUDY WITH HYALURONIC ACID.

DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2011.08.073 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:42:38
This review examines the development of hydrogel-based scaffolds for cartilage tissue engineering, using hyaluronic acid as a primary example. The authors analyze current approaches that combine cells (chondrocytes or stem cells) with hydrogel scaffolds, growth factors, and bioreactors to regenerate damaged cartilage tissue. They review how hydrogel systems have been optimized for key properties including nutrient diffusion, matrix connectivity, controlled degradation, and mechanical loading to enhance cartilage formation. Despite significant advances in material design, the review concludes that achieving the complex mechanical properties and biochemical composition of native cartilage remains a major challenge in the field.

A MULTIBODY KNEE MODEL WITH DISCRETE CARTILAGE PREDICTION OF TIBIO-FEMORAL CONTACT MECHANICS.

DOI: 10.1080/10255842.2011.617004 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:42:30
This study aimed to develop a computationally efficient knee model that combines muscle force simulations with detailed cartilage contact mechanics prediction. The researchers created a subject-specific multibody knee model representing tibial cartilage as discrete rigid bodies with deformable contact properties, using three different methods to derive contact parameters: Hertzian contact theory, elastic foundation theory, and finite element optimization.

The model was tested during simulated walking and validated against experimental knee motion data. Key findings showed that contact stiffness parameters significantly affected predicted contact pressures and most knee motions (except flexion-extension), while friction primarily influenced rotational movements and side-to-side translation. Although the model produced relatively small differences in knee kinematics compared to experimental data, contact pressure predictions were highly sensitive to the chosen modeling approach, and the multibody model ran 283 times faster than equivalent finite element simulations.

DYNAMIC COMPRESSIVE LOADING ENHANCES CARTILAGE MATRIX SYNTHESIS AND DISTRIBUTION AND SUPPRESSES HYPERTROPHY IN HMSC-LADEN HYALURONIC ACID HYDROGELS.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.TEA.2011.0455 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:42:21
This study investigated how dynamic compressive loading affects human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) grown in hyaluronic acid hydrogels for cartilage tissue engineering applications. The researchers cultured MSC-laden hydrogels for 70 days with different cell densities (20 vs 60 million cells/mL) and compared constructs subjected to mechanical loading versus those left unloaded. Dynamic compression significantly enhanced the mechanical properties and cartilage matrix content (glycosaminoglycans and collagen) of the constructs, with effects being more pronounced at higher cell densities and promoted more uniform matrix distribution throughout the hydrogels. Additionally, mechanical loading suppressed hypertrophic differentiation - an undesirable process where cartilage cells mature into bone-forming cells - helping maintain the desired cartilage phenotype for potential clinical applications.

BIOMECHANICAL INFLUENCE OF CARTILAGE HOMEOSTASIS IN HEALTH AND DISEASE.

DOI: 10.1155/2011/979032 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:42:10
This review aims to examine how mechanical forces influence cartilage health and disease progression in osteoarthritis, with the goal of identifying new therapeutic targets. The authors analyzed existing research from animal studies and 3D laboratory models to understand how different types of mechanical loading and inflammatory signals affect cartilage cell function and matrix production. The key finding is that moderate, physiological mechanical loading helps maintain healthy cartilage with low matrix turnover, while abnormal mechanical forces promote cartilage damage and degeneration. The review concludes that better understanding of these protective mechanical pathways could lead to novel osteoarthritis treatments, addressing the current lack of disease-modifying therapies.

REGULATION OF HUMAN CHONDROCYTE FUNCTION THROUGH DIRECT INHIBITION OF CARTILAGE MASTER REGULATOR SOX9 BY MICRORNA-145 (MIRNA-145).

DOI: 10.1074/jbc.M111.302430 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:42:03
This study investigated how microRNA-145 (miR-145) regulates SOX9, a master transcription factor essential for cartilage function in human chondrocytes. The researchers used human articular chondrocytes to examine the direct interaction between miR-145 and SOX9, analyzing gene expression changes when miR-145 levels were modified. They found that miR-145 directly suppresses SOX9 expression by binding to a specific site in its messenger RNA, and this binding site is unique to humans (not found in mice). When miR-145 levels increased, it led to reduced production of key cartilage matrix components (collagen II and aggrecan) and increased markers associated with cartilage breakdown and osteoarthritis, suggesting miR-145 could be a potential therapeutic target for cartilage repair strategies.

MECHANOTRANSDUCTION AND CARTILAGE INTEGRITY.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2011.06301.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:41:56
This review examines how mechanical loading helps maintain cartilage health and prevent degradation in osteoarthritis (OA). The authors synthesized recent research on mechanotransduction pathways in articular joints, focusing on how physical forces are converted into cellular responses that affect cartilage breakdown enzymes. The key finding is that moderate mechanical loading (exercise) provides joint protection by reducing the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and aggrecanases (ADAMTS) - the enzymes responsible for cartilage destruction in OA. While clinical trials show exercise benefits for OA patients through improved pain and function, the authors highlight that the specific molecular mechanisms by which mechanical forces protect cartilage remain poorly understood and require further investigation.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE FRICTION INCREASES IN HIP JOINTS AFTER THE REMOVAL OF ACETABULAR LABRUM.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2011.11.044 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:41:50
This study investigated how the acetabular labrum contributes to maintaining low friction in hip joints by measuring changes in joint mechanics after labrum removal. The researchers tested five cadaveric hips without arthritis or impingement, measuring resistance to rotation (which reflects cartilage friction) under various loading conditions (0.5-3 times body weight) in intact joints, after partial labrum removal, and after complete removal. The results showed that resistance to rotation significantly increased after focal labrum removal at moderate to high loads (1-3 times body weight) and after complete removal at all load levels. These findings suggest the labrum plays a crucial role in joint lubrication by sealing the joint and preventing fluid loss, and that even partial labrum damage may increase friction and potentially contribute to cartilage degeneration and osteoarthritis development.

EFFECTIVE LUBRICATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE BY AN AMPHIPHILIC HYALURONIC ACID DERIVATIVE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2011.11.012 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:41:44
This study evaluated whether a chemically modified hyaluronic acid with amphiphilic properties (having both water-loving and water-repelling components) could improve cartilage lubrication compared to natural synovial fluid. The researchers conducted friction tests on bovine cartilage using two different conditions: migrating contact (simulating normal joint movement) and static contact (simulating sustained loading that may cause wear). Under normal movement conditions, the modified hyaluronic acid performed equally well as natural synovial fluid, with both significantly outperforming the control solution. However, under sustained loading conditions that potentially cause cartilage damage, the amphiphilic hyaluronic acid showed superior lubrication properties, reducing friction by nearly 3 times compared to synovial fluid and 5 times compared to the control.

ANALYSIS OF AGGRECAN CATABOLISM BY IMMUNOBLOTTING AND IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY.

DOI: 10.1007/978-1-61779-498-8_15 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:41:39
This study describes methods to analyze aggrecan breakdown in cartilage and intervertebral discs using antibody-based techniques. The researchers used immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry with antibodies that recognize different regions of aggrecan and the specific fragments created when enzymes cut the protein. Their findings show that two main enzyme families - matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and aggrecanases (ADAMTS enzymes) - are responsible for aggrecan degradation in both normal aging and joint diseases. These techniques allow researchers to measure how much aggrecan has been broken down, identify the specific degradation products present, and pinpoint where in the tissue this breakdown is occurring.

SLIDING MOTION MODULATES STIFFNESS AND FRICTION COEFFICIENT AT THE SURFACE OF TISSUE ENGINEERED CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2011.12.010 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:41:33
This study investigated how different mechanical loading conditions affect the surface properties of tissue-engineered cartilage constructs. Researchers cultured bovine chondrocytes in polyurethane scaffolds under three conditions: no loading, compression only, or compression combined with sliding motion, then analyzed surface properties using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and immunohistochemistry. The key finding was that constructs subjected to sliding motion exhibited the lowest friction coefficient, highest surface stiffness, and specific production of lubricin (a key lubricating protein) at the surface. These results suggest that incorporating sliding motion into bioreactor systems may be crucial for developing tissue-engineered cartilage with functional surface properties similar to native articular cartilage.

A 3D SYSTEM FOR CULTURING HUMAN ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES IN SYNOVIAL FLUID.

DOI: 10.3791/3587 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:41:28
This study developed a novel 3D culture system to grow human articular chondrocytes in high concentrations of synovial fluid (up to 100%) for cartilage tissue engineering applications. The researchers overcame the technical challenge of synovial fluid's high viscosity to maintain chondrocytes in a 3D environment for 21 days, mimicking the natural joint conditions more accurately than traditional artificial culture media. The system successfully demonstrated the feasibility of culturing human chondrocytes in their native synovial fluid environment, which contains important growth factors, nutrients, and signaling molecules naturally present in joints. This platform offers potential for advancing cartilage regeneration research and developing new therapeutic approaches for osteoarthritis by providing a more physiologically relevant testing environment.

SIMULTANEOUS ANABOLIC AND CATABOLIC RESPONSES OF HUMAN CHONDROCYTES SEEDED IN COLLAGEN HYDROGELS TO LONG-TERM CONTINUOUS DYNAMIC COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2011.12.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:41:22
This study investigated whether long-term mechanical loading could improve the properties of engineered cartilage tissue for potential clinical use. Researchers seeded human chondrocytes from knee replacement patients into collagen hydrogels and applied continuous cyclic compression (10% strain, 0.3 Hz) for 28 days, then analyzed tissue composition, gene expression, and mechanical properties. The mechanical stimulation significantly increased collagen type II and proteoglycan content throughout the samples and improved elastic stiffness compared to unstimulated controls. However, the treatment simultaneously increased both tissue-building (collagen II, collagen I) and tissue-degrading (MMP-13) gene expression while decreasing aggrecan expression, suggesting mixed anabolic and catabolic responses that could inform optimization of mechanical conditioning protocols for cartilage tissue engineering.

DYNAMIC COMPRESSION IMPROVES BIOSYNTHESIS OF HUMAN ZONAL CHONDROCYTES FROM OSTEOARTHRITIS PATIENTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2012.04.019 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:41:16
This study investigated whether chondrocytes from different cartilage zones in osteoarthritis (OA) patients respond differently to mechanical compression and whether optimized loading could enhance their regenerative capacity. The researchers isolated superficial and middle/deep zone chondrocytes from OA joints, encapsulated them in alginate, and tested various compression protocols (5-50% strain, 1-12 hours duration) while measuring gene expression and matrix production over 2 weeks. Dynamic compression significantly increased expression of key cartilage genes (aggrecan, collagen II) in a zone-specific manner, with 50% strain for 3 hours daily producing the best results. Importantly, superficial zone chondrocytes showed superior responses to long-term compression, retaining more glycosaminoglycans and developing higher mechanical strength, suggesting that mechanical loading protocols could be optimized for cartilage tissue engineering applications in OA treatment.

CHARACTERIZATION OF A MACROPOROUS POLYVINYL ALCOHOL SCAFFOLD FOR THE REPAIR OF FOCAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFECTS.

DOI: 10.1002/term.1510 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:41:08
This study aimed to develop and characterize a second-generation macroporous polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) scaffold for repairing focal cartilage defects in joints. The researchers tested the scaffold's mechanical properties (compressive strength, permeability, and Poisson's ratio) at different polymer concentrations and strains, and evaluated cell growth by seeding chondrocytes (cartilage cells) and monitoring their proliferation over one week. The PVA scaffold demonstrated mechanical properties similar to human articular cartilage (compressive moduli >500-1000 kPa) and successfully supported chondrocyte seeding and growth throughout its interconnected porous structure. These promising results suggest the macroporous PVA scaffold could be a viable option for future cartilage repair treatments.

MATRIX MOLECULE INFLUENCE ON CHONDROCYTE PHENOTYPE AND PROTEOGLYCAN 4 EXPRESSION BY ALGINATE-EMBEDDED ZONAL CHONDROCYTES AND MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.22166 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:41:03
This study investigated how matrix components affect the expression of proteoglycan 4 (PRG4), a crucial joint lubricating protein, by different cell types in tissue engineering scaffolds. The researchers cultured superficial zone chondrocytes, middle/deep zone chondrocytes, and mesenchymal stem cells in alginate hydrogels with added hyaluronic acid (HA) and chondroitin sulfate (CS), then measured PRG4 expression and other cartilage markers. The key findings showed that superficial zone chondrocytes maintained high PRG4 expression that was enhanced up to 15-fold by HA and CS additives, while middle/deep zone cells produced no detectable PRG4 and mesenchymal stem cells actually showed reduced PRG4 expression with these additives. The matrix additives promoted overall cartilage formation by increasing SOX9 expression and decreasing unwanted type I collagen production, demonstrating that scaffold composition critically influences the production of joint lubricating proteins.

HYALURONAN INJECTION IN MURINE OSTEOARTHRITIS PREVENTS TGFBETA 1-INDUCED SYNOVIAL NEOVASCULARIZATION AND FIBROSIS AND MAINTAINS ARTICULAR CARTILAGE INTEGRITY BY A CD44-DEPENDENT MECHANISM.

DOI: 10.1186/ar3887 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:40:56
This study investigated how intra-articular hyaluronan (HA) injections protect joints in osteoarthritis using a mouse model that combines TGFβ1 injection with treadmill running to induce OA-like changes. The researchers used fluorescent tracking to monitor HA clearance, performed detailed tissue analysis including histology and gene expression studies, and compared outcomes between normal mice and those lacking the CD44 receptor.

The study found that HA injections had a short half-life (less than 2 hours) in mouse joints but effectively prevented abnormal blood vessel formation and scarring in joint tissues while preserving cartilage structure. HA treatment promoted beneficial cartilage-related gene expression while suppressing harmful inflammatory and degradative processes, and reduced levels of cartilage-destroying enzymes like MMP13 and ADAMTS5.

Importantly, these protective effects were completely lost in mice lacking CD44 receptors, demonstrating that HA must bind to CD44 to provide joint protection, which helps explain the mechanism behind HA's therapeutic benefits in osteoarthritis treatment.

THE FRACTAL STRUCTURE OF EQUINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/sca.21026 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:40:46
This study aimed to analyze the fractal structure of equine articular cartilage surfaces to better understand joint lubrication and friction mechanisms. The researchers used stylus profilometry to measure the fractal dimensions of three different cartilage surfaces in the equine carpus (radiocarpal, midcarpal, and carpometacarpal joints), which experience different ranges of motion, geometry, and loading conditions. The study confirmed that equine articular cartilage possesses a multiscale fractal structure, with the fractal dimension varying between the three joint surfaces. The findings suggest that understanding cartilage surface fractal properties may help explain how different joint types optimize their friction, wear, and lubrication performance based on their specific mechanical demands.

INVESTIGATION OF TECHNIQUES FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE SURFACE ROUGHNESS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2012.06.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:40:40
This study aimed to evaluate and compare different techniques for measuring the surface roughness of articular cartilage, which is critical for understanding joint lubrication and designing replacement materials. The researchers used bovine cartilage samples and measured surface roughness using two methods: scanning electron microscopy (SEM) stereoscopic imaging at various magnifications (500× to 2000×) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The key findings showed that SEM consistently produced higher roughness values than AFM, with SEM measurements at 500× magnification ranging from 165-174 nm (Ra) and 183-261 nm (Sa), while AFM measurements were lower at 83-114 nm (Ra) and 86-136 nm (Sa). The study concluded that while both techniques can measure cartilage surface roughness, the choice of measurement method significantly affects the results, emphasizing the importance of using consistent techniques when comparing surface roughness values across studies.

NANOMECHANICS OF THE CARTILAGE EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX.

DOI: 10.1146/annurev-matsci-062910-100431 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:40:29
This review examines the application of nanomechanics to understand cartilage function and disease at the molecular level. The authors reviewed both experimental and theoretical nanomechanical approaches used to study cartilage across multiple scales, from intact tissue down to individual extracellular matrix molecules like collagen, aggrecan, and hyaluronan. The studies demonstrate that nanoscale changes in cartilage matrix components significantly affect the tissue's overall mechanical behavior and contribute to joint dysfunction in aging, injury, and osteoarthritis. This nanomechanical understanding provides fundamental insights into cartilage function and pathology that can inform both native tissue assessment and tissue engineering strategies.

REHABILITATION AND RETURN-TO-SPORTS ACTIVITY AFTER DEBRIDEMENT AND BONE MARROW STIMULATION OF OSTEOCHONDRAL TALAR DEFECTS.

DOI: 10.1007/BF03262299 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:40:23
This review examined rehabilitation protocols and return-to-sport timelines following arthroscopic debridement and bone marrow stimulation for osteochondral defects of the talus (ankle bone). The authors conducted a systematic literature search through MEDLINE database up to January 2012, focusing on studies related to osteochondral defects, bone marrow stimulation, rehabilitation, and sports activity. The review found no consensus in existing literature regarding optimal rehabilitation duration or return-to-sport timelines after bone marrow stimulation treatment, with limited research conducted on actual athletes. Based on their findings, the authors proposed a four-phase return-to-sport progression (walking, jogging, non-contact sports, then contact sports) and identified potential factors that may improve outcomes, including younger age, lower BMI, smaller defect size, and various adjunctive treatments, though most supporting evidence comes from laboratory or animal studies.

THE EFFECTS OF REV5901 ON INTRACELLULAR CALCIUM SIGNALLING IN FRESHLY ISOLATED BOVINE ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.4149/gpb_2012_035 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:40:17
This study investigated how REV5901, a compound that protects cartilage cells (chondrocytes) from injury, affects calcium signaling pathways within these cells. The researchers used freshly isolated bovine chondrocytes and measured intracellular calcium levels while applying various inhibitors to identify the specific signaling mechanisms involved. They found that REV5901 treatment increased intracellular calcium levels by approximately 38% above baseline through two main pathways: release of calcium from internal cellular stores via phospholipase Cβ3, and calcium influx from outside the cell through sodium-calcium exchangers. These findings suggest that calcium signaling may be a key mechanism by which REV5901 exerts its protective effects on cartilage cells.

[TRIBOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE. A SYSTEM FOR THE ANALYSIS OF THE FRICTION COEFFICIENT OF CARTILAGE, REGENERATES AND TISSUE ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTS; INITIAL RESULTS].

DOI: 10.1007/s00132-012-1951-6 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:40:09
This study aimed to develop and validate a specialized system for measuring the friction coefficient of articular cartilage and cartilage substitutes as a quality assessment tool. The researchers created a tribological testing system that measures friction by calculating the ratio of friction force to perpendicular loading force, and validated that deep-freezing cartilage samples does not affect the measurement results. The system successfully distinguished between normal and altered cartilage, and could differentiate tissue-engineered cartilage constructs from native cartilage based on their friction properties. This tribological equipment provides a new biomechanical method for evaluating the quality of both naturally regenerated cartilage and laboratory-grown cartilage constructs for potential clinical applications.

INTENSITY-DEPENDENT EFFECT OF TREADMILL RUNNING ON LUBRICIN METABOLISM OF RAT ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1186/ar4101 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:39:58
This study investigated how different intensities of treadmill running affect lubricin (a joint lubricating protein) in rat knee cartilage over 8 weeks. Twenty-four rats were divided into control, low-, moderate-, and high-intensity running groups, with cartilage analyzed using histology, immunohistochemistry, and gene expression techniques. Low- and moderate-intensity running improved cartilage health (lower Mankin scores) and increased lubricin protein and gene expression, while high-intensity running caused osteoarthritic changes and dramatically reduced lubricin levels. The findings demonstrate that moderate exercise enhances cartilage lubrication and health, but excessive exercise intensity can be detrimental to joint cartilage.

THE EFFECTS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON APOPTOSIS AND LUBRICIN EXPRESSION IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN RATS WITH GLUCOCORTICOID-INDUCED OSTEOPOROSIS.

DOI: 10.1007/s00774-012-0414-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:39:52
This study investigated whether physical activity could protect articular cartilage in rats with glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis by examining cell death and lubrication mechanisms. The researchers divided rats into 5 groups, treated some with prednisolone to induce osteoporosis, and subjected others to treadmill and vibration platform exercise, then analyzed cartilage using imaging, tissue analysis, and molecular techniques to measure lubricin (a joint lubricant) and caspase-3 (a cell death marker). The study found that glucocorticoid treatment decreased beneficial lubricin expression and increased harmful caspase-3 expression, but physical activity reversed these negative effects, restoring both markers to normal levels. The authors conclude that mechanical stimulation through exercise may protect cartilage by promoting lubricin production, which appears to prevent cartilage cell death, suggesting physical activity could be a therapeutic approach for cartilage diseases like osteoarthritis.

EQUINE ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES ON MACT SCAFFOLDS FOR CARTILAGE DEFECT TREATMENT.

DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12018 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:39:45
This study investigated whether scaffold materials used in human cartilage repair (MACT - Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Transplantation) could effectively support equine chondrocyte growth for treating cartilage defects in horses. Researchers cultured chondrocytes from horse ankle joints on two different scaffold types - hyaluronan (HYAFF®) and collagen (BIOGIDE®) - then examined cell behavior using light and electron microscopy. Both scaffold materials successfully supported viable, active equine chondrocytes, with cells forming multilayers on scaffold surfaces and demonstrating adaptive strategies for growth within different scaffold structures. The findings suggest these human cartilage repair scaffolds could be adapted for equine veterinary applications, with chondrocytes showing remarkable ability to bridge gaps and navigate through scaffold materials of varying densities.

STICK-SLIP FRICTION AND WEAR OF ARTICULAR JOINTS.

DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1222470110 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:39:31
This study investigated how stick-slip friction contributes to cartilage damage in articular joints under different loading and movement conditions. Using a surface forces apparatus, researchers tested cartilage samples under various loads and sliding speeds, and selectively removed key cartilage components (collagen, hyaluronic acid, and glycosaminoglycans) to understand their protective roles. The study found that stick-slip friction—rather than high friction coefficients—directly causes cartilage surface damage and increased roughness, even under mild conditions, and that removing any of the cartilage's molecular components significantly increased friction forces and altered damage patterns. These findings suggest that all cartilage components work together to prevent wear, and that detecting stick-slip motion could potentially serve as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for joint health.

THE EFFECT OF MOVING POINT OF CONTACT STIMULATION ON CHONDROCYTE GENE EXPRESSION AND LOCALIZATION IN TISSUE ENGINEERED CONSTRUCTS.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-013-0763-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:39:25
This study investigated whether moving point contact stimulation (MPS) could promote the formation of a superficial layer in tissue-engineered cartilage constructs, addressing a key limitation where current engineered cartilage lacks the organized surface layer found in natural cartilage. The researchers applied MPS to chondrocyte-agarose hydrogels at different frequencies (0.5, 1, or 2 Hz) under constant compression and analyzed gene expression of superficial zone markers using qRT-PCR and in situ hybridization, supported by finite element modeling. They found that 1 Hz stimulation optimally enhanced expression of key superficial zone genes (PRG4, biglycan, decorin, and collagen II), but these markers localized 500-1000 μm below the surface rather than at the surface itself. The results suggest that while mechanical stimulation can promote superficial zone gene expression in engineered cartilage, the subsurface strain patterns (10-25%) determine where these markers are expressed, indicating that stimulus modification may be needed to achieve true surface localization.

RELATIONSHIPS AMONGST OSTEOARTHRITIS BIOMARKERS, DYNAMIC KNEE JOINT LOAD, AND EXERCISE: RESULTS FROM A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED PILOT STUDY.

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2474-14-115 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:39:17
This pilot study examined relationships between cartilage biomarkers and knee joint loading mechanics in 17 people with knee osteoarthritis, and tested whether 10 weeks of strengthening exercises could improve these biomarkers. Researchers measured walking biomechanics using 3D motion analysis to calculate knee joint loads, collected blood and urine samples for cartilage breakdown and formation markers, then randomized participants to either supervised strengthening exercises or no treatment. The study found a potential relationship between higher knee joint loading and increased cartilage breakdown (measured by uCTX-II biomarker), though this became non-significant when accounting for disease severity and walking speed. Following the exercise intervention, participants showed significantly greater improvements in a cartilage biomarker (sCOMP) compared to controls, suggesting that strengthening exercises may have beneficial effects on cartilage structure in knee osteoarthritis.

GRADUAL STRENUOUS RUNNING REGIMEN PREDISPOSES TO OSTEOARTHRITIS DUE TO CARTILAGE CELL DEATH AND ALTERED LEVELS OF GLYCOSAMINOGLYCANS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2013.04.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:39:10
This study investigated whether strenuous running predisposes to osteoarthritis development in rat knee joints. Researchers subjected Wistar rats to a 12-week progressive treadmill running program (covering at least 55 km) followed by exhaustive ultra-endurance exercise, then analyzed knee cartilage using histological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical methods to assess cell death, inflammation, and glycosaminoglycan content. The strenuous running group showed clear signs of early osteoarthritis, including increased chondrocyte death (elevated caspase-3), higher inflammatory cytokine levels (IL-1α and TNF-α), increased chondrocyte clustering, and significantly reduced protective molecules (chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid). These findings suggest that intensive running training can trigger molecular and structural changes in cartilage that characterize osteoarthritis development, even in the absence of visible cartilage thinning.

ENDOPLASMIC RETICULUM STRESS REGULATES RAT MANDIBULAR CARTILAGE THINNING UNDER COMPRESSIVE MECHANICAL STRESS.

DOI: 10.1074/jbc.M112.407296 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:39:04
This study investigated how endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress contributes to cartilage thinning in the jaw joint under mechanical loading. The researchers used a rat model to apply compressive stress to mandibular cartilage, then analyzed the affected cartilage cells using proteomics to identify 28 proteins associated with ER stress, and validated these findings with molecular and cellular techniques. They found that mechanical stress activated ER stress pathways in cartilage cells, leading to early cell death and later abnormal cell proliferation that contributed to cartilage thinning. Importantly, blocking ER stress with an inhibitor prevented cartilage loss, suggesting that targeting ER stress could be a new therapeutic approach for treating temporomandibular joint disorders caused by mechanical overloading.

IMPLANT SIZE AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES INFLUENCE THE FAILURE OF THE ADHESIVE BOND BETWEEN CARTILAGE IMPLANTS AND NATIVE TISSUE IN A FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2013.03.019 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:38:58
This study investigated how implant characteristics affect the adhesive bond failure between cartilage implants and surrounding native tissue. The researchers used finite element modeling of the human knee medial compartment with a cohesive zone model to simulate fibrin adhesive failure under compression and sliding loads, testing various implant parameters including size, thickness, stiffness, surface friction, and Poisson's ratio. The key findings showed that larger implants, lack of bone anchoring, higher surface friction, and more compliant (softer) implant materials significantly increased the risk of adhesive bond failure and implant loosening. These results provide important guidance for optimizing cartilage implant design and surgical fixation techniques to improve long-term success rates.

EFFECTS OF IN VITRO LOW OXYGEN TENSION PRECONDITIONING OF ADIPOSE STROMAL CELLS ON THEIR IN VIVO CHONDROGENIC POTENTIAL: APPLICATION IN CARTILAGE TISSUE REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0062368 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:38:53
This study investigated whether preconditioning adipose stromal cells (ASCs) under low oxygen conditions (5% vs 21%) could improve their ability to form cartilage tissue for repair applications. The researchers cultured rabbit and human ASCs under different oxygen levels with or without cartilage-promoting factors, then tested their cartilage-forming potential both in rabbit joint defects (18 weeks) and subcutaneous mouse implants (5 weeks) using a specialized hydrogel carrier. While low oxygen preconditioning enhanced cartilage marker expression in laboratory culture, it did not improve actual cartilage formation when the cells were implanted in living animals. The study found that ASCs preconditioned with cartilage-promoting medium successfully formed cartilage tissue regardless of oxygen preconditioning, and that growing cells within the 3D hydrogel environment enhanced their cartilage-forming potential.

A REVIEW OF THE COMBINATION OF EXPERIMENTAL MEASUREMENTS AND FIBRIL-REINFORCED MODELING FOR INVESTIGATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND CHONDROCYTE RESPONSE TO LOADING.

DOI: 10.1155/2013/326150 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:38:41
This review examines how combining experimental measurements with fibril-reinforced computational models can advance our understanding of articular cartilage mechanics and chondrocyte responses to loading. The authors focus on fibril-reinforced modeling approaches that incorporate the inhomogeneous and anisotropic structure of cartilage to characterize local tissue and cellular stresses and strains that cannot be measured experimentally. The review demonstrates that these advanced computational models, when combined with experimental validation, provide crucial insights into cartilage mechanotransduction and cellular responses in both healthy and osteoarthritic tissue. The authors conclude that patient-specific finite element models show promise for evaluating cartilage function, predicting osteoarthritis progression, and guiding rehabilitation strategies.

DYNAMIC COMPRESSIVE PROPERTIES OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGES IN THE PORCINE TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2013.04.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:38:33
This study aimed to characterize the dynamic compressive properties of cartilage in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and determine whether these properties vary by anatomical region and loading frequency. The researchers performed dynamic indentation tests on cartilage from nine porcine TMJs, dividing each joint surface into five regions (anterior, central, posterior, medial, and lateral) and applying sinusoidal compression at frequencies ranging from 0.01 to 10 Hz. The results showed that both mandibular and temporal cartilages exhibited frequency-dependent stiffness that varied significantly between regions, with the lateral region showing the highest stiffness values. Additionally, the temporal cartilage demonstrated higher viscosity (energy dissipation) compared to the mandibular cartilage, suggesting different mechanical roles in load transmission during jaw function.

HYDROMECHANICAL STIMULATOR FOR CHONDROCYTE-SEEDED CONSTRUCTS IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING APPLICATIONS.

DOI: 10.1177/0954411912468638 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:38:27
This study aimed to develop and test a novel "hydromechanical" stimulation device that combines three types of mechanical loading (cyclic compression, frictional shear, and pressurized fluid perfusion) to enhance tissue-engineered cartilage constructs for joint repair. The researchers tested their device on chondrocyte-seeded constructs using different stimulation conditions over 3 weeks, comparing hydromechanical stimulation (at high and low fluid flow rates), compression plus friction only, and unstimulated controls. The main outcome measured was glycosaminoglycan (GAG) retention in the constructs, which ranked highest in the compression plus friction group, followed by high-flow hydromechanical stimulation, low-flow hydromechanical stimulation, and controls. Although no statistically significant differences were found between groups, the study successfully demonstrated the feasibility of the hydromechanical stimulation approach and provided a foundation for future parameter optimization studies.

MICROSCALE SURFACE FRICTION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN EARLY OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2013.03.019 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:38:20
This study aimed to investigate how microscale surface friction changes in articular cartilage during early osteoarthritis (OA), specifically focusing on the boundary lubrication properties of the cartilage surface. The researchers used atomic force microscopy (AFM) to measure friction coefficients at very small scales (0.5-5 μN loads) on cartilage surfaces from an experimental OA model, and examined surface changes using scanning electron microscopy and immunohistochemical staining for lubricin. The key finding was a nearly 50% increase in friction coefficient in early OA cartilage, but only at the lowest applied load (0.5 μN), accompanied by visible surface cracking, roughening, and disruption of the thin surface layer, while lubricin distribution remained unchanged. These results suggest that early OA involves degradation of the cartilage's outermost surface layer, leading to reduced lubrication efficiency and increased potential for wear, highlighting the importance of preserving this surface lamina to maintain joint health and prevent OA progression.

INFLUENCES OF THE DEPTH-DEPENDENT MATERIAL INHOMOGENEITY OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE ON THE FLUID PRESSURIZATION IN THE HUMAN KNEE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2013.05.005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:38:10
This study investigated how the natural variation in cartilage properties from surface to bone affects fluid pressure distribution in the knee joint during loading. The researchers used advanced 3D finite element modeling of a complete knee joint, incorporating the distinct material properties of cartilage's superficial, middle, and deep zones, as well as the individual contributions of collagen fibers, proteoglycans, and fluid. The results showed that depth-dependent material variation enhances fluid support in the superficial zone by increasing fluid pressure while reducing compressive stress, and decreases harmful tensile stresses at the cartilage-bone interface. These findings suggest that cartilage's layered structure serves important protective functions by preventing deep tissue fractures, protecting surface tissue from excessive compression, and improving joint lubrication.

PRIMING 3D CULTURES OF HUMAN MESENCHYMAL STROMAL CELLS TOWARD CARTILAGE FORMATION VIA DEVELOPMENTAL PATHWAYS.

DOI: 10.1089/scd.2013.0216 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:38:05
This study aimed to improve cartilage formation from human bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (hBM-MSCs) by mimicking early limb development processes, specifically testing whether WNT3A and FGF2 signaling could prime cells for better cartilage production. The researchers cultured hBM-MSCs in 3D pellets and treated them with these developmental factors before inducing cartilage formation with TGF-β1, measuring cell proliferation, gene expression, and cartilage matrix production. WNT3A successfully increased cell proliferation five-fold and enhanced subsequent cartilage formation by 30% compared to controls, with CD146+ cells showing particular responsiveness to this treatment. However, unlike in natural development, FGF2 actually worked against WNT3A's beneficial effects, highlighting both the promise and challenges of applying developmental biology principles to tissue engineering approaches.

EFFECT OF PRECULTURE AND LOADING ON EXPRESSION OF MATRIX MOLECULES, MATRIX METALLOPROTEINASES, AND CYTOKINES BY EXPANDED OSTEOARTHRITIC CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1002/art.38049 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:37:56
This study investigated how preculturing osteoarthritic (OA) chondrocytes to allow matrix accumulation affects their response to mechanical compression. The researchers cultured expanded chondrocytes from different cartilage zones in alginate gels, with some cells precultured for 2 weeks before applying dynamic compression, while measuring expression of matrix proteins, inflammatory molecules, and tissue-degrading enzymes. The key finding was that expanded OA chondrocytes with predeposited matrix (mimicking the natural pericellular matrix) showed enhanced sensitivity to mechanical loading, producing more beneficial matrix proteins and fewer harmful enzymes compared to cells without preculture. These results suggest that allowing cells to rebuild their surrounding matrix before mechanical stimulation may be important for cartilage tissue engineering approaches using expanded OA chondrocytes.

EFFECTS OF MEDIUM AND TEMPERATURE ON CELLULAR RESPONSES IN THE SUPERFICIAL ZONE OF HYPO-OSMOTICALLY CHALLENGED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.3390/jfb3030544 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:37:49
This study investigated how environmental factors affect chondrocyte (cartilage cell) volume changes when cartilage is exposed to hypo-osmotic (low salt) conditions. The researchers used confocal microscopy to observe cells in cartilage samples before and after osmotic challenge, comparing different immersion media (PBS vs. DMEM) and temperatures (21°C vs. 37°C). All groups showed the same pattern: cells initially swelled when exposed to the hypo-osmotic solution, then returned to their original volumes within 120 minutes. The findings demonstrate that chondrocyte volume regulation in response to osmotic stress is robust and unaffected by the choice of common laboratory media or temperature conditions.

HOW PRECONDITIONING AFFECTS THE MEASUREMENT OF PORO-VISCOELASTIC MECHANICAL PROPERTIES IN BIOLOGICAL TISSUES.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-013-0511-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:37:44
This study investigated how preconditioning cycles affect the measurement of mechanical properties in articular cartilage, addressing the common practice of discarding initial loading data in favor of subsequent "steady-state" measurements. The researchers used computational modeling to analyze the time-dependent effects of both collagen viscoelasticity and fluid flow (poroelasticity) during different loading conditions, including indentation and unconfined compression. The key finding was that preconditioning significantly influences cartilage mechanical response, with collagen viscoelasticity dominating under indentation and fluid-dependent effects being more important under unconfined compression. Importantly, the study revealed that viscoelastic and poroelastic effects can either oppose each other (creating apparent equilibrium when the tissue is not actually at equilibrium) or reinforce each other (producing prolonged effects), demonstrating that accurate determination of cartilage mechanical properties requires analyzing both preconditioning and post-preconditioning data rather than ignoring the initial loading cycles.

SEVERE POSTTRAUMATIC RADIOCARPAL CARTILAGE DAMAGE: FIRST REPORT OF AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION.

DOI: 10.1007/s00402-013-1821-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:37:37
This case report describes the first use of autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) to treat severe cartilage damage in the wrist joint of a 22-year-old man who suffered a traumatic wrist fracture. The researchers used a novel approach involving chondrocytes (cartilage cells) delivered in an albumin-hyaluronic acid gel that hardens in place to repair grade 4 cartilage defects in two areas of the radiocarpal joint. At 6 months follow-up, the patient showed improved wrist function and reduced disability scores (DASH score improved from 10.8 to 7.5), better range of motion without pain, and good tissue integration on MRI imaging. While these initial results are promising for treating severe wrist cartilage injuries, the authors emphasize that larger clinical studies are needed to validate this new treatment approach.

BIOMECHANICAL PROPERTIES AND MECHANOBIOLOGY OF THE ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTE.

DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00242.2013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:37:31
This review examines how mechanical forces affect the biomechanical properties and cellular responses of articular chondrocytes, the specialized cells responsible for maintaining cartilage health. The authors synthesized existing literature on the viscoelastic properties of chondrocytes and their surrounding structures (nucleus, pericellular matrix, and chondron), comparing normal versus osteoarthritic conditions. Key findings indicate that while chondrocytes normally maintain cartilage matrix balance through mechano-responsive synthesis and degradation processes, excessive loading or injury disrupts this balance, leading to matrix breakdown and osteoarthritis development. The review highlights that chondrocyte mechanobiology plays a crucial role in osteoarthritis pathogenesis and suggests this understanding could inform the development of biophysical treatments for joint degeneration.

ADIPOSE-DERIVED STEM CELLS FOR CARTILAGE REGENERATION--MOVING TOWARDS CLINICAL APPLICABILITY.

DOI: 10.1186/scrt329 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:37:25
This study evaluated a method for enhancing adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) to improve cartilage repair treatments. The researchers used platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to precondition autologous ADSCs and tested their effectiveness in treating cartilage defects in a mouse model. The PRP-treated ADSCs showed improved cell growth and better ability to form cartilage tissue compared to untreated cells, and were more effective at repairing cartilage defects in the animal model. While the method shows promise for developing clinical cell therapies for cartilage regeneration, the authors note that further research is needed to refine the technique and better understand the composition of the repaired tissue.

HYBRID HYALURONIC ACID HYDROGEL/POLY(Ɛ-CAPROLACTONE) SCAFFOLD PROVIDES MECHANICALLY FAVORABLE PLATFORM FOR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING STUDIES.

DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.34957 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:37:19
This study aimed to evaluate a hybrid scaffold combining hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel with porous poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) for cartilage tissue engineering applications. The researchers tested the mechanical properties of the hybrid scaffolds using tensile and compressive testing at various frequencies, and assessed dedifferentiated chondrocyte behavior including cell morphology and extracellular matrix protein expression. The hybrid scaffolds demonstrated tensile properties similar to human articular cartilage and showed significantly increased viscous behavior at physiologically relevant frequencies (1-2 Hz) compared to PCL-only controls, though this did not translate to enhanced chondrocyte differentiation or matrix protein production. The authors conclude that this hybrid platform provides a mechanically suitable model system for studying cartilage tissue engineering, though additional optimization is needed to promote proper chondrocyte differentiation and matrix formation.

ESTABLISHMENT OF A RELIABLE AND REPRODUCIBLE MURINE OSTEOARTHRITIS MODEL.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2013.09.012 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:37:12
This study aimed to develop a more reliable and reproducible mouse model of osteoarthritis by controlling animal movement to reduce the high variability seen in current models. The researchers induced osteoarthritis in C57BL/6 mice through meniscal destabilization, then housed them in either standard cages (free movement) or confined cages with controlled exercise regimens of 0, 400, 800, or 1200 meters per day. Mice in confined cages with controlled exercise showed more severe osteoarthritis lesions with significantly less variation between animals, though the progression patterns differed based on exercise intensity - linear progression until 8 weeks with moderate exercise (400m/day) versus plateauing after 4 weeks with higher exercise levels. The improved model reliability was validated by successfully detecting therapeutic effects of hyaluronic acid treatment, which could not be statistically demonstrated using the standard caging approach.

INCREASED CARTILAGE VOLUME AFTER INJECTION OF HYALURONIC ACID IN OSTEOARTHRITIS KNEE PATIENTS WHO UNDERWENT HIGH TIBIAL OSTEOTOMY.

DOI: 10.1007/s00167-013-2735-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:37:05
This randomized controlled trial investigated whether adding hyaluronic acid injections to high tibial osteotomy (HTO) surgery could increase cartilage volume in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The study compared 40 patients with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis: 20 received two cycles of weekly hyaluronic acid injections at 6-month intervals after HTO, while 20 controls received HTO alone, with cartilage volume measured by MRI before surgery and at one year follow-up. Patients who received hyaluronic acid injections showed significant increases in total cartilage volume and lateral compartment cartilage volume, while the control group experienced cartilage loss in the lateral tibial area. Both groups had similar improvements in pain and function scores, but the hyaluronic acid group required significantly less anti-inflammatory medication, suggesting that combining these treatments may help preserve and restore cartilage after corrective knee surgery.

INTRINSIC VISCOELASTICITY INCREASES TEMPERATURE IN KNEE CARTILAGE UNDER PHYSIOLOGICAL LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2013.10.025 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:36:59
This study investigated whether the natural mechanical properties of knee cartilage can generate sufficient heat during normal activity to optimize cartilage metabolism. The researchers developed a mathematical model using three experimentally-determined parameters: energy dissipation during cyclic loading (measured through mechanical testing), cartilage heat capacity (measured with differential scanning calorimetry), and heat transfer rates (measured using MRI thermometry in four volunteers). The model predicted that healthy cartilage can warm from a resting temperature of 33°C to 36.7°C after one hour of walking, reaching the optimal temperature range (36-38°C) for producing key cartilage components like proteoglycans and hyaluronic acid. Importantly, the study found that degenerated cartilage lacks sufficient viscoelastic properties to generate this beneficial temperature increase, suggesting a potential link between cartilage mechanical function and its ability to maintain itself.

PARTICULATE CARTILAGE UNDER BIOREACTOR-INDUCED COMPRESSION AND SHEAR.

DOI: 10.1007/s00264-013-2194-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:36:52
This study investigated how different mechanical loading conditions affect the regenerative potential of minced cartilage fragments for cartilage repair applications. The researchers cultured bovine cartilage fragments in scaffolds under three conditions: free-swelling (control), dynamic compression and shear using a bioreactor, or a combination of initial free-swelling followed by mechanical stimulation, then analyzed tissue formation using molecular, biochemical, and histological methods. The key findings showed that mechanical loading helped maintain the expression of cartilage-specific genes (collagen II, aggrecan, COMP) over four weeks, while these markers declined in free-swelling controls, and bioreactor stimulation also promoted greater cellular growth compared to static conditions. However, despite the improved gene expression, the actual tissue formed under mechanical loading showed signs of being less mature cartilage with increased fibrous tissue markers, suggesting a disconnect between molecular signals and tissue quality.

MEMBRANE CULTURE AND REDUCED OXYGEN TENSION ENHANCES CARTILAGE MATRIX FORMATION FROM EQUINE CORD BLOOD MESENCHYMAL STROMAL CELLS IN VITRO.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2013.12.021 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:36:46
This study aimed to optimize cartilage tissue production from equine cord blood mesenchymal stromal cells by comparing different culture methods and oxygen conditions. Researchers cultured cells from 5 foals for 3 weeks using either membrane or pellet culture systems under normal (21%) or reduced (5%) oxygen conditions, then evaluated the resulting tissue using histological, biochemical, and gene expression analyses. The combination of membrane culture with 5% oxygen produced the highest quality neocartilage that most closely resembled natural hyaline cartilage, with membrane culture increasing tissue yield and uniformity while low oxygen enhanced cartilage-specific components like glycosaminoglycans and type II collagen. These findings suggest that membrane culture under reduced oxygen tension could improve cartilage regeneration therapies for treating joint damage in horses.

MECHANICAL MOTION PROMOTES EXPRESSION OF PRG4 IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE VIA MULTIPLE CREB-DEPENDENT, FLUID FLOW SHEAR STRESS-INDUCED SIGNALING PATHWAYS.

DOI: 10.1101/gad.231969.113 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:36:38
This study investigated how mechanical motion regulates PRG4 (lubricin) expression in articular cartilage, a protective protein that helps prevent osteoarthritis. The researchers used both in vivo running experiments and in vitro fluid flow shear stress (FFSS) models to examine the molecular pathways involved. They found that running maximally increases PRG4 expression in the superficial zone of knee cartilage through COX-2-dependent mechanisms involving CREB signaling. The study also revealed that FFSS triggers the release of signaling molecules (PGE2, PTHrP, and ATP) that activate both PKA and calcium-regulated pathways, ultimately promoting CREB-dependent PRG4 expression specifically in superficial zone chondrocytes.

MICROMECHANICAL RESPONSE OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE TO TENSILE LOAD MEASURED USING NONLINEAR MICROSCOPY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2014.02.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:36:30
This study aimed to investigate how strain is distributed throughout articular cartilage at the microscopic level when the tissue is under tensile loading. The researchers used nonlinear microscopy (which can image living tissue without added dyes) combined with mechanical testing, tracking individual cartilage cells (chondrocytes) as they moved and changed shape during loading using advanced computational methods including point pattern matching and Bayesian modeling. The key finding was that strain distribution in loaded cartilage is inhomogeneous (uneven) at the microscopic scale, with individual cells experiencing different amounts of deformation. These results provide important insights that can help improve our understanding of how mechanical forces influence cartilage cell behavior and disease development.

COMPOSITE THREE-DIMENSIONAL WOVEN SCAFFOLDS WITH INTERPENETRATING NETWORK HYDROGELS TO CREATE FUNCTIONAL SYNTHETIC ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201300483 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:36:23
This study aimed to develop a synthetic biomaterial that replicates the complex mechanical and tribological properties of natural articular cartilage. The researchers created a composite scaffold by infusing a "tough-gel" interpenetrating network (made from alginate and polyacrylamide hydrogels) into a three-dimensionally woven poly(ε-caprolactone) fiber framework. The resulting fiber-reinforced composite successfully mimicked cartilage's load-bearing capacity and low-friction properties, demonstrating potential as both an acellular implant and a scaffold for cell-based cartilage repair strategies. This approach addresses the significant challenge of creating synthetic materials that can withstand the demanding mechanical environment of joints over long periods.

CONNEXIN43 HEMICHANNELS MEDIATE SMALL MOLECULE EXCHANGE BETWEEN CHONDROCYTES AND MATRIX IN BIOMECHANICALLY-STIMULATED TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2014.03.017 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:36:16
This study investigated whether connexin43 (CX43) hemichannels facilitate molecular transport between cartilage cells and their surrounding matrix in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) when subjected to mechanical forces. The researchers used both live rats with dental-mechanical stimulation and cultured chondrocyte cells exposed to fluid flow stress, measuring CX43 protein levels and tracking the movement of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and fluorescent dyes to assess hemichannel activity. The results showed that mechanical stimulation significantly increased CX43 expression and opened hemichannels, allowing enhanced exchange of small molecules like PGE2 between cells and the cartilage matrix - effects that could be blocked with specific inhibitors. These findings demonstrate that CX43 hemichannels serve as important conduits for molecular communication in TMJ cartilage during mechanical loading, with effects persisting up to 48 hours after stimulation.

CORRELATION BETWEEN 3D MICROSTRUCTURAL AND 2D HISTOMORPHOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF SUBCHONDRAL BONE WITH HEALTHY AND DEGENERATIVE CARTILAGE OF THE KNEE JOINT.

DOI: 10.14670/HH-29.1477 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:36:10
This study investigated how subchondral bone structure changes relate to cartilage degeneration in knee osteoarthritis by comparing bone samples from patients with early-grade (ICRS 1B) and higher-grade (ICRS 3A/3B) cartilage damage during total knee replacement surgery. The researchers used 2D histomorphometry and high-resolution micro-CT to analyze bone structure in 60 osteochondral samples, while assessing cartilage quality through gene expression analysis of key cartilage components (collagen I/II and aggrecan).

The study found that progressive cartilage degeneration was significantly correlated with deteriorating subchondral bone structure, including decreased bone volume fraction, altered trabecular architecture (fewer, more separated trabeculae), and impaired trabecular orientation. These structural changes in subchondral bone help explain the compromised mechanical properties and inadequate load transfer that contributes to excessive cartilage loading in osteoarthritis, suggesting that bone density alone is insufficient for evaluating disease progression.

LUBRICIN IS REQUIRED FOR THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY AND POST-NATAL MAINTENANCE OF TMJ.

DOI: 10.1177/0022034514535807 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:36:02
This study investigated the role of lubricin (a product of the PRG4 gene) in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) health by comparing wild-type mice to those lacking the PRG4 gene across different ages. The researchers used histological analysis and molecular markers to examine TMJ structure, cellular composition, and cartilage integrity in both mouse groups from 2 weeks to 6 months of age. The findings revealed that mice without lubricin developed severe TMJ abnormalities starting as early as 2 weeks, including tissue overgrowth, altered cartilage cell zones, increased bone resorption, disc deformation, and ultimately osteoarthritic changes by 6 months. These results demonstrate that lubricin is essential not only for joint lubrication but also for maintaining the structural integrity and cellular health of the TMJ throughout postnatal development and aging.

SURFACE ZONE ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES MODULATE THE BULK AND SURFACE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF THE TISSUE-ENGINEERED CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.TEA.2014.0099 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:35:56
This study investigated whether increasing the proportion of surface zone (SZ) chondrocytes in tissue-engineered cartilage would improve lubrication properties by enhancing production of superficial zone protein (SZP), a natural joint lubricant. Researchers created cartilage constructs using a scaffold-free self-assembly process with varying ratios of SZ to middle zone chondrocytes (from 0:100 to 100:0) and tested their mechanical and frictional properties. While constructs with higher proportions of SZ chondrocytes showed improved tensile properties, collagen content, and SZP production, they did not demonstrate significantly reduced friction coefficients as expected. The findings suggest that achieving proper lubrication in engineered cartilage requires additional factors beyond SZP production alone, such as SZP-binding molecules, surface texture, and adhesion properties.

THERAPEUTIC EFFECT OF IRRADIATION OF MAGNETIC INFRARED LASER ON OSTEOARTHRITIS RAT MODEL.

DOI: 10.1111/php.12304 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:35:50
This study investigated whether magnetic infrared laser (MIL) therapy could effectively treat osteoarthritis in rats. Researchers tested three different MIL doses (6.65, 2.66, and 1.33 J/cm²) applied for 4 weeks in an osteoarthritis rat model, comparing results to untreated controls and diclofenac treatment. The findings showed that MIL treatment produced dose-dependent improvements in knee joint function and reduced swelling, while also preserving cartilage components (GAGs) and promoting cartilage formation. Histological analysis revealed that MIL therapy inhibited cartilage breakdown and stimulated new cartilage cell growth, suggesting it may be a promising non-pharmaceutical treatment option for osteoarthritis.

FETAL JAW MOVEMENT AFFECTS IHH SIGNALING IN MANDIBULAR CONDYLAR CARTILAGE DEVELOPMENT: THE POSSIBLE ROLE OF IHH AS MECHANOTRANSDUCTION MEDIATOR.

DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2014.06.009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:35:45
This study investigated how fetal jaw movement influences the development of mandibular condylar cartilage, specifically examining the role of Indian hedgehog (IHH) signaling as a potential mechanotransduction mediator. The researchers restricted jaw movement in mouse embryos at day 15.5 by suturing the jaws closed, then analyzed the condylar cartilage at day 18.5 using immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization techniques. Results showed that jaw movement restriction led to reduced and deformed condylar cartilage, with decreased cell proliferation and significantly reduced expression of IHH and parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) in key cartilage zones. These findings suggest that mechanical stress from normal jaw movement is essential for proper condylar development, with IHH serving as a key molecular mediator that translates mechanical forces into cellular responses during cartilage formation.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMELIORATES CARTILAGE DEGENERATION IN A RAT MODEL OF AGING: A STUDY ON LUBRICIN EXPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1111/sms.12290 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:35:38
This study investigated whether moderate physical activity could prevent age-related cartilage degeneration in rats by examining lubricin expression as a biomarker of cartilage health. The researchers used young, adult, and aged rats in exercise and sedentary groups, measuring lubricin levels in cartilage tissue (via immunohistochemistry and Western blotting) and synovial fluid (via ELISA), along with histological assessment of tissue structure. The key finding was that moderate physical activity in elderly rats increased lubricin production and elevated its levels in synovial fluid, improving cartilage lubrication properties and preventing cartilage degradation compared to sedentary adult rats. These results suggest that regular exercise may help maintain cartilage health and prevent osteoarthritis development in aging joints.

CONCENTRATIONS OF STROMAL CELL-DERIVED FACTOR-1 IN SERUM, PLASMA, AND SYNOVIAL FLUID OF HORSES WITH OSTEOCHONDRAL INJURY.

DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.75.8.722 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:35:32
This study investigated whether stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) concentrations in blood and joint fluid could serve as biomarkers for detecting osteochondral injury in racehorses. The researchers compared SDF-1 levels in serum, plasma, and synovial fluid among 22 uninjured horses (before and after race training) and 37 horses with osteochondral injuries requiring arthroscopic surgery. Horses with joint injuries showed significantly higher SDF-1 concentrations in synovial fluid, lower concentrations in serum, and higher synovial fluid-to-serum ratios compared to uninjured horses, while plasma levels remained unchanged across groups. Serum SDF-1 measurements demonstrated the best sensitivity for distinguishing between injured and uninjured horses, suggesting this biomarker could potentially help detect osteochondral injury and monitor joint inflammation in racehorses.

CHANGES IN DISSIPATED ENERGY AND CONTACT PRESSURE AFTER OSTEOCHONDRAL GRAFT TRANSPLANTATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2014.06.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:35:26
This study investigated how different osteochondral graft placement heights affect joint mechanics by measuring contact pressure and energy dissipation (friction) in sheep joints. The researchers tested six ovine carpometacarpal joints under various conditions: intact cartilage, cartilage defect, and osteochondral grafts placed at three different heights (deep, flush, or high), plus a simulated cartilage failure scenario.

Flush-positioned grafts best restored the contact area between joint surfaces, but surprisingly did not improve energy dissipation compared to defects or deep-placed grafts. High-positioned grafts created concerning increases in contact pressure and reduced contact area, though their energy dissipation remained similar to intact cartilage—unlike other treatments that showed significantly higher energy loss than normal.

RUNX1 ACTIVITIES IN SUPERFICIAL ZONE CHONDROCYTES, OSTEOARTHRITIC CHONDROCYTE CLONES AND RESPONSE TO MECHANICAL LOADING.

DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24727 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:35:20
This study investigated the role of RUNX1, a transcription factor, in cartilage health and osteoarthritis (OA) by examining its expression patterns in mouse and human cartilage samples and testing its response to mechanical loading in bovine cartilage. The researchers used molecular techniques (qPCR, immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry) to measure RUNX1 levels and assessed cell proliferation markers in both healthy and OA-affected cartilage.

Key findings showed that RUNX1 is naturally enriched in superficial zone chondrocytes of healthy cartilage and increases with mechanical loading, suggesting it helps maintain the unique properties of surface cartilage cells. In OA cartilage, RUNX1 becomes highly expressed in proliferative cell clusters ("clones") alongside stem cell markers and protective proteins, indicating it may contribute to the body's attempt to repair damaged cartilage.

COMPARISON OF THE SYMPTOMATIC AND CHONDROPROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF GLUCOSAMINE SULPHATE AND EXERCISE TREATMENTS IN PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-140516 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:35:12
This study compared the effectiveness of glucosamine sulphate versus exercise therapy for treating knee osteoarthritis symptoms and protecting cartilage. Seventy patients were randomly assigned to receive either 1500 mg daily oral glucosamine sulphate (n=40) or a home exercise program (n=30) for 6 months, with outcomes measured using pain scores, functional assessments, and MRI cartilage thickness measurements. Both treatments significantly improved pain, function, and walking time equally, but only the exercise group showed actual cartilage improvement (increased thickness in the medial femoral condyle area on MRI). The findings suggest that while both treatments provide similar symptom relief, exercise therapy offers superior cartilage protection compared to glucosamine sulphate in knee osteoarthritis patients.

QUANTITATIVE PROTEOMICS AT DIFFERENT DEPTHS IN HUMAN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE REVEALS UNIQUE PATTERNS OF PROTEIN DISTRIBUTION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2014.08.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:35:06
This study aimed to map the precise distribution of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins across the different depth zones of human articular cartilage, from surface to bone. The researchers used two mass spectrometry approaches: first, a discovery method (iTRAQ) to identify all extractable ECM proteins in different layers of one lateral tibial plateau sample, then a targeted method (MRM) to verify findings across four medial tibial plateau samples. The analysis revealed unique distribution patterns for 70 ECM proteins, with distinct groups preferentially located in the superficial, intermediate, or deep cartilage regions - patterns that were consistent across multiple samples when 29 selected proteins were analyzed in detail. This work provides the first comprehensive overview of how cartilage ECM proteins are zonally organized, offering new insights that could advance understanding of cartilage function in both healthy and diseased states.

NEXT-GENERATION SEQUENCING IDENTIFIES EQUINE CARTILAGE AND SUBCHONDRAL BONE MIRNAS AND SUGGESTS THEIR INVOLVEMENT IN OSTEOCHONDROSIS PHYSIOPATHOLOGY.

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-15-798 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:35:00
This study investigated the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in equine osteochondrosis (OC), a common joint disorder in young horses with unclear molecular mechanisms. Researchers used next-generation sequencing to analyze miRNA expression in cartilage and subchondral bone samples from healthy and OC-affected 10-month-old foals, with some samples subjected to mechanical loading to assess mechanotransduction pathways. The team identified approximately 300 new miRNAs and found distinct expression patterns between healthy and diseased tissues, with cartilage miRNAs targeting genes involved in cell cycle control, metabolism, and cartilage matrix maintenance, while bone miRNAs were linked to bone cell differentiation and growth factor signaling. These findings suggest that miRNAs play important roles in OC development and the tissue response to mechanical stress, providing new insights into the molecular basis of this equine joint disease.

ARTHROSCOPIC FIXATION OF CELL FREE POLYMER-BASED CARTILAGE IMPLANTS WITH A BIOINSPIRED POLYMER SURFACE ON THE HIP JOINT: A CADAVERIC PILOT STUDY.

DOI: 10.1155/2014/717912 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:34:54
This cadaveric pilot study aimed to evaluate the adhesion capacity of modified cartilage implants with a bioinspired polymer surface for treating hip cartilage defects. Researchers used two cadaver specimens to arthroscopically implant polyglycolic acid scaffolds with (PGA-PM) and without (control) a planar polymer surface modification into 10×15 mm full-thickness femoral cartilage lesions, testing fixation both with and without fibrin glue, followed by 50 movement cycles and rearthroscopy assessment. The PGA-PM scaffolds demonstrated significantly better performance than standard PGA scaffolds across all measures including outline attachment, area coverage, scaffold integrity, and endpoint fixation (p<0.05). The bioinspired polymer surface modification, particularly when combined with fibrin glue fixation, showed superior initial fixation strength compared to conventional scaffolds in this hip cartilage defect model.

TRIBOLOGICAL AND MATERIAL PROPERTIES FOR CARTILAGE OF AND THROUGHOUT THE BOVINE STIFLE: SUPPORT FOR THE ALTERED JOINT KINEMATICS HYPOTHESIS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2014.09.021 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:34:48
This study investigated whether cartilage properties vary throughout the knee joint in ways that could explain why ligament and meniscus injuries lead to osteoarthritis. The researchers measured mechanical and friction properties of cartilage samples from 20 different locations across 10 bovine knee joints under physiologically relevant loading conditions. They found significant regional differences in cartilage quality, with tibial cartilage showing poorer properties than femoral cartilage, and the central femoral condyle having the most favorable properties while uncovered tibial plateau regions had the least favorable. These findings support the hypothesis that altered joint mechanics after injury can cause osteoarthritis by forcing underprepared cartilage regions with inferior properties to bear abnormal loads, explaining why tibial damage often occurs first and why ligament/meniscus tears increase osteoarthritis risk.

ROLE OF INTERSTITIAL FLUID PRESSURIZATION IN TMJ LUBRICATION.

DOI: 10.1177/0022034514553626 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:34:41
This study investigated the lubrication mechanisms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) tissues by measuring their friction properties across different regions and sliding directions. The researchers performed micro-tribometry testing on TMJ discs and condylar cartilage from 8 adult porcine joints, testing 5 anatomical regions in two perpendicular directions under various sliding speeds and loads. The key findings showed that condylar cartilage had significantly lower friction coefficients (0.027) compared to TMJ discs (0.074), with condylar cartilage friction decreasing at higher sliding speeds while disc friction decreased with greater normal forces. The results suggest that condylar cartilage relies more heavily on interstitial fluid pressurization for lubrication compared to TMJ discs, indicating distinct lubrication mechanisms between these two joint tissues.

CARTILAGE REPAIR AND SUBCHONDRAL BONE REMODELING IN RESPONSE TO FOCAL LESIONS IN A MINI-PIG MODEL: IMPLICATIONS FOR TISSUE ENGINEERING.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.TEA.2014.0384 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:34:33
This study investigated how different cartilage injury depths and repair treatments affect both cartilage healing and underlying bone changes in a mini-pig model commonly used for testing cartilage repair technologies. The researchers created partial-thickness and full-thickness cartilage defects in the knee joints of 11 young Yucatan mini-pigs, treating some defects with microfracture, cartilage transplantation, or hydrogel injection, then analyzed the results after 6 weeks using micro-CT imaging, histological scoring, and computer modeling. The key finding was that all full-thickness defects caused substantial bone remodeling regardless of treatment type, while partial-thickness defects did not, and autologous cartilage transplantation produced the best cartilage repair quality and load distribution. The researchers concluded that the bone remodeling appears to be a biological response triggered by defect depth rather than altered mechanical loading, highlighting the importance of carefully controlling injury type when using mini-pig models to evaluate cartilage repair approaches.

SYNERGY BETWEEN PIEZO1 AND PIEZO2 CHANNELS CONFERS HIGH-STRAIN MECHANOSENSITIVITY TO ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1414298111 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:34:26
This study aimed to identify the mechanosensitive ion channels responsible for detecting injurious mechanical stress in articular cartilage cells (chondrocytes). The researchers used cellular expression studies, atomic force microscopy on primary chondrocytes, and cartilage explant injury models to examine the role of PIEZO1 and PIEZO2 channels. They found that both PIEZO1 and PIEZO2 channels work together synergistically to detect high-strain mechanical forces, producing stronger calcium signals and electrical currents when expressed together compared to individually. Blocking these channels with a peptide inhibitor (GsMTx4) reduced chondrocyte death following mechanical injury, suggesting these channels could be therapeutic targets for preventing cartilage damage and post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

THE PROBABLE EXPLANATION FOR THE LOW FRICTION OF NATURAL JOINTS.

DOI: 10.1007/s12013-014-0384-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:34:20
This study investigated how phospholipid (PL) bilayers on cartilage surfaces contribute to the exceptionally low friction in natural joints. The researchers used experimental models to examine how pH levels affect surface properties and friction in both intact and damaged joint surfaces, testing buffer solutions that mimicked synovial fluid at various pH values. The key finding was that surface interfacial energy remained at its lowest (most favorable) levels when pH was maintained between 6.5 and 9.5, which encompasses the normal synovial fluid pH of 7.4. When PL bilayers deteriorated, the hydration-based lubrication mechanism became less effective, leading to increased friction and reduced joint lubrication performance.

ENCAPSULATION OF CHONDROCYTES IN HIGH-STIFFNESS AGAROSE MICROENVIRONMENTS FOR IN VITRO MODELING OF OSTEOARTHRITIS MECHANOTRANSDUCTION.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-014-1183-5 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:34:15
This study aimed to develop an agarose-based system that mimics the stiffness of healthy and osteoarthritic pericellular matrix (PCM) to better understand how cartilage cells respond to mechanical forces. The researchers determined stiffness-concentration relationships for agarose gels, encapsulated human chondrocytes in different stiffness environments (2.0% and 4.5% agarose), and analyzed cellular responses using metabolomics. They successfully achieved physiologically relevant stiffness values (up to 51.3 kPa equilibrium modulus) while maintaining excellent cell viability (>96%), and found that gel stiffness significantly affected cellular metabolism, with over 500 functional molecules showing different responses between low and high stiffness conditions. These findings demonstrate that PCM stiffness plays a crucial role in how chondrocytes sense and respond to mechanical loading, providing a valuable tool for studying cartilage degeneration in osteoarthritis.

OSTEOARTHRITIS YEAR IN REVIEW 2014: MECHANICS--BASIC AND CLINICAL STUDIES IN OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2014.06.034 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:34:08
This review aimed to summarize recent advances in osteoarthritis (OA) mechanics research by examining both basic science and clinical studies published between January 2013 and March 2014. The authors systematically reviewed 67 studies across four key areas: mechanobiology (how cells respond to mechanical forces), walking mechanics, biomechanical treatments, and mechanical risk factors for OA development. Key findings included the discovery of new cellular pathways that control how cartilage cells respond to loading, evidence that muscle forces play a crucial role in joint loading during daily activities, and mixed results for biomechanical interventions like shoe insoles and knee braces in reducing joint loads or pain. The research highlighted that joint alignment problems increase OA risk through meniscus damage, and suggested that combining diet with exercise (rather than exercise alone) may be more effective at reducing knee joint loading during walking.

EFFECTS OF ENZYMATIC DEGRADATION AFTER LOADING IN TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT.

DOI: 10.1177/0022034514560588 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:34:01
This study investigated whether breakdown of joint lubrication in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) leads to cartilage damage and osteoarthritis-like changes. The researchers used porcine TMJ samples treated with enzymes (hyaluronidase or trypsin) to degrade lubrication components, then measured friction coefficients and subjected the joints to cyclic loading while analyzing gene expression, inflammatory markers, and tissue structure.

Enzyme treatment significantly increased friction (35% with hyaluronidase, 74% with trypsin), and subsequent mechanical loading led to increased expression of inflammatory markers (IL-1β, COX-2) and cartilage-degrading enzymes (MMPs), along with reduced collagen production and visible cartilage surface damage. These findings suggest that compromised joint lubrication can initiate a cascade of inflammation and cartilage breakdown in the TMJ when combined with mechanical stress, providing insight into early osteoarthritis development.

THE EFFECT OF FORCED EXERCISE ON KNEE JOINTS IN DIO2(-/-) MICE: TYPE II IODOTHYRONINE DEIODINASE-DEFICIENT MICE ARE LESS PRONE TO DEVELOP OA-LIKE CARTILAGE DAMAGE UPON EXCESSIVE MECHANICAL STRESS.

DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2014-206608 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:33:54
This study investigated whether deficiency in the enzyme DIO2 (type II iodothyronine deiodinase) protects against cartilage damage in an osteoarthritis model. Researchers subjected wild-type and DIO2-deficient mice to forced running for 1 hour daily over 3 weeks, then assessed cartilage damage through histological scoring and analyzed gene expression changes in knee cartilage using microarray analysis. The forced exercise successfully induced osteoarthritis-like changes in wild-type mice, with 147 genes showing altered expression including several known OA-associated genes. Importantly, DIO2-deficient mice showed significantly less cartilage damage and joint inflammation compared to wild-type mice, with distinct gene expression patterns that suggest DIO2 deficiency provides protective effects against exercise-induced cartilage damage.

SHORT-TERM CONSOLIDATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN THE LONG-TERM CONTEXT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2015.01.003 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:33:48
This study aimed to develop a new mathematical model to better understand how cartilage responds to mechanical loading in osteoarthritis, addressing the challenge of modeling processes that occur across vastly different time scales (second-by-second loading versus months-long cartilage degradation). The researchers created a two-component poroelastic model with a novel flow-restricting boundary condition that more accurately represents the joint environment, and tested it under both constant and repetitive loading conditions. Under constant loading, they determined how long cartilage takes to consolidate (lose its fluid), which affects lubrication duration, while under repetitive loading, they identified a zone where tissue continues to oscillate even after consolidation. The model provides new insights into how mechanical overloading leads to progressive cartilage breakdown in osteoarthritis, potentially offering a clinically useful tool for understanding this degenerative process.

COEFFICIENT OF FRICTION PATTERNS CAN IDENTIFY DAMAGE IN NATIVE AND ENGINEERED CARTILAGE SUBJECTED TO FRICTIONAL-SHEAR STRESS.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-015-1269-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:33:40
This study aimed to develop an automated method for detecting cartilage damage during frictional-shear testing, replacing the current subjective visual inspection approach. The researchers developed a simplified biphasic lubrication model to extract characteristic features from friction signals, then tested this approach on 74 cartilage samples using support vector machine classifiers to identify damage patterns. The friction signal analysis successfully detected cartilage damage with approximately 90% accuracy, maintaining high performance even when damage was minimal. This automated approach could make frictional-shear testing more accessible and objective for evaluating both native and engineered cartilage quality.

MECHANOBIOLOGY OF THE MENISCUS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2015.02.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:33:35
This review examines how mechanical forces influence meniscal cell behavior and tissue health in the knee joint. The authors synthesized experimental and theoretical studies that measured biomechanical effects on the meniscus, combined microscale measurements of cellular mechanical properties with computational models, and analyzed cell culture studies across different systems from isolated cells to whole tissues. The key findings show that meniscal cells experience complex, non-uniform mechanical environments including high contact stresses, varying fluid pressures and flows, with cellular responses directly influenced by physical factors like tension, compression, and hydrostatic pressure through specific mechanotransduction pathways. Understanding these mechanobiological responses could lead to new therapeutic approaches for preventing meniscal degeneration and enhancing repair.

AGGRECAN NANOSCALE SOLID-FLUID INTERACTIONS ARE A PRIMARY DETERMINANT OF CARTILAGE DYNAMIC MECHANICAL PROPERTIES.

DOI: 10.1021/nn5062707 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:33:29
This study investigated how aggrecan, a key cartilage protein, contributes to cartilage's mechanical properties through interactions between solid matrix components and fluid at the molecular level. The researchers used nanomechanical testing, finite element modeling, and length-scale analysis to examine aggrecan monolayers, measuring their dynamic mechanical behavior and hydraulic permeability while manipulating electrostatic interactions between molecular chains. They found that solid-fluid interactions (poroelasticity) at the nanoscale are the primary mechanism governing aggrecan's mechanical behavior, with the measured hydraulic permeability of aggrecan similar to normal cartilage but much lower than diseased tissue. The study also revealed that electrostatic forces between molecular chains dominate over physical crowding effects, and that adult human aggrecan is stiffer than newborn tissue, though permeability remains constant across species and age.

EFFECTS OF RESVERATROL TREATMENT ON BONE AND CARTILAGE IN OBESE DIABETIC MICE.

DOI: 10.1186/s40200-015-0141-6 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:33:23
This study investigated whether resveratrol treatment could improve bone and cartilage health in obese diabetic mice. Researchers treated 8-week-old ob/ob mice (a model of obesity and diabetes) and lean control mice with oral resveratrol (25 mg/kg) for 3 weeks, then analyzed bone structure and growth plate cartilage using histomorphometry and cross-sectional geometry. The obese diabetic mice showed reduced bone length, mechanical strength, and growth plate area compared to lean controls. Resveratrol treatment produced mixed results, increasing cortical bone area in both groups but unexpectedly reducing bone length and calcified cartilage area, without improving mechanical resistance to bending.

MENISCUS REPLACEMENT: INFLUENCE OF GEOMETRICAL MISMATCHES ON CHONDROPROTECTIVE CAPABILITIES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2015.02.063 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:33:18
This study investigated how size mismatches in meniscus implants affect their ability to protect cartilage from damage. The researchers used numerical modeling to simulate different implant sizes (oversized, undersized, and perfectly sized) and measured stress distribution and collagen strain in articular cartilage over time (1 second to 600 seconds of loading). The simulations revealed that oversized meniscus implants created particularly high collagen strains in femoral cartilage that worsened with sustained loading, while undersized implants performed similarly to perfectly sized ones in terms of stress distribution. These findings support the clinical observation that smaller meniscus transplants may be preferable to oversized ones because they better protect the most heavily loaded areas of the joint.

BIODYNAMIC PERFORMANCE OF HYALURONIC ACID VERSUS SYNOVIAL FLUID OF THE KNEE IN OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2015.03.019 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:33:12
This study aimed to evaluate the lubricating performance of hyaluronic acid (HA) compared to natural synovial fluid in osteoarthritic knee cartilage models. The researchers developed cartilage models that simulate osteoarthritis conditions and tested the friction properties using mechanical testing with different lubricants, including HA and freshly harvested synovial fluid. The results showed that HA significantly reduced both static and kinetic friction coefficients by 75% and 70% respectively compared to untreated cartilage samples. Importantly, HA demonstrated lubricating performance equivalent to natural synovial fluid across all tested osteoarthritic conditions, supporting its effectiveness as a boundary lubricant for potential osteoarthritis treatments.

WEAR AND DAMAGE OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE WITH FRICTION AGAINST ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANT MATERIALS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2015.04.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:33:06
This study aimed to evaluate how different orthopedic implant materials cause wear and damage to articular cartilage, specifically testing materials commonly used in hemiarthroplasty procedures. The researchers tested immature bovine cartilage disks against glass, two cobalt chromium alloys, and stainless steel with varying surface roughness, using conditions that accelerated fluid loss to simulate clinical scenarios. The results showed that stainless steel and rougher cobalt chromium surfaces caused significantly more cartilage damage and had higher friction coefficients compared to glass and smoother cobalt chromium surfaces. Importantly, the damage occurred primarily through delamination between cartilage layers rather than surface abrasion, suggesting that subsurface fatigue failure is the main mechanism of cartilage deterioration in implant-cartilage interactions.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MICRO-POROSITY, WATER PERMEABILITY AND MECHANICAL BEHAVIOR IN SCAFFOLDS FOR CARTILAGE ENGINEERING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2015.03.021 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:33:00
This study investigated how micro-porosity in polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds affects their water permeability and mechanical properties for cartilage tissue engineering applications. The researchers used poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel to simulate growing cartilage tissue within the scaffold pores and performed unconfined and confined compression tests to evaluate mechanical behavior and water transport properties across scaffolds with varying micro-pore sizes. The key findings revealed that scaffold mechanical response results from synergistic interactions between both the scaffold material and the simulated tissue within its pores, while scaffold compliance is primarily controlled by micro-porosity rather than the density of tissue-like material in the pores. These results provide important guidance for optimizing scaffold design and predicting how these biomaterials will perform when implanted in the body.

EFFECTS OF SHORT-TERM GENTLE TREADMILL WALKING ON SUBCHONDRAL BONE IN A RAT MODEL OF INSTABILITY-INDUCED OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2015.04.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:32:55
This study investigated whether gentle treadmill walking could prevent subchondral bone deterioration in early osteoarthritis using a rat model where knee instability was surgically induced. Rats underwent destabilized medial meniscus (DMM) surgery and were then assigned to either sedentary conditions or a gentle walking program (12 m/min, 30 minutes daily, 5 days/week for up to 4 weeks), with outcomes assessed using micro-CT imaging, histological analysis, and biomechanical testing. The walking intervention showed a tendency to suppress subchondral bone cyst growth and reduce osteoclast activity, while significantly preventing cartilage degeneration and maintaining cartilage stiffness compared to sedentary controls. The study also found that walking reduced osteocyte death in subchondral bone, which correlated strongly with cartilage protection, suggesting that gentle exercise may slow osteoarthritis progression through beneficial effects on both cartilage and underlying bone.

REGENERATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE SURFACE: MORPHOGENS, CELLS, AND EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX SCAFFOLDS.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.TEB.2014.0661 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:32:47
This review examines the current state of articular cartilage regeneration research, focusing on overcoming the tissue's limited natural healing capacity that can lead to osteoarthritis. The authors analyzed existing animal model studies that investigate the "regeneration triad" of morphogens/growth factors, cells (particularly mesenchymal stem cells and other stem cell types), and scaffolds (including nanomaterials and extracellular matrix-based designs). The review reveals that while extensive research has been conducted using these three key components, animal studies have shown variable and inconsistent results, and no standardized clinical treatment protocol has been established. The authors conclude that developing better animal models that more accurately replicate human cartilage regeneration processes is essential for advancing tissue engineering approaches to restore articular cartilage surfaces.

VOLTAGE-DEPENDENT CALCIUM CHANNELS IN CHONDROCYTES: ROLES IN HEALTH AND DISEASE.

DOI: 10.1007/s11926-015-0521-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:32:41
This narrative review examines the role of voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs) in cartilage cells (chondrocytes) and their potential as therapeutic targets for osteoarthritis. The authors synthesized published literature on VDCC expression and function in chondrocytes, with particular focus on studies using L-type VDCC inhibitors like nifedipine and verapamil. The review reveals that VDCCs are functionally active in chondrocytes and play crucial roles in cell proliferation, maturation, and mechanotransduction, while VDCC activation appears to contribute to inflammatory processes in osteoarthritis. The authors conclude that existing calcium channel blockers, currently used for cardiovascular conditions, may offer a promising therapeutic approach for osteoarthritis treatment, though clinical evidence remains limited and further research is needed.

THE DISTRIBUTION OF SUPERFICIAL ZONE PROTEIN (SZP)/LUBRICIN/PRG4 AND BOUNDARY MODE FRICTIONAL PROPERTIES OF THE BOVINE DIARTHRODIAL JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2015.05.032 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:32:36
This study aimed to systematically compare the frictional properties and distribution of superficial zone protein (SZP/lubricin/PRG4) across all major tissues within the bovine knee joint using standardized testing conditions. The researchers measured boundary mode friction coefficients and performed immunostaining to assess SZP localization in tissues from three compartments: patellofemoral (patella and groove), and medial/lateral tibiofemoral (femoral condyles, meniscus, tibial plateau, and ACL). The patellofemoral compartment showed significantly higher friction coefficients compared to the tibiofemoral compartments, with correspondingly reduced SZP staining depth and intensity in the patella and patellofemoral groove versus the femoral condyles and tibial plateau. These findings demonstrate an inverse relationship between SZP presence and friction, confirming the critical role of this boundary lubricant in maintaining the low-friction properties essential for healthy joint function.

SB203580 PRECONDITIONING RECHARGES MATRIX-EXPANDED HUMAN ADULT STEM CELLS FOR CHONDROGENESIS IN AN INFLAMMATORY ENVIRONMENT - A FEASIBLE APPROACH FOR AUTOLOGOUS STEM CELL BASED OSTEOARTHRITIC CARTILAGE REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.06.038 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:32:29
This study investigated whether preconditioning human synovium-derived stem cells (hSDSCs) with a p38 MAPK inhibitor (SB203580) could improve their ability to form cartilage, particularly in inflammatory conditions that mimic osteoarthritis. The researchers expanded hSDSCs on decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) and tested their cartilage-forming potential with and without SB203580 preconditioning, including under inflammatory conditions induced by interleukin-1. The key finding was that SB203580 preconditioning significantly enhanced both cell proliferation and cartilage formation capacity of dECM-expanded hSDSCs, even in inflammatory environments, while adding the inhibitor during cartilage differentiation actually impaired the process. The results suggest that this preconditioning approach could potentially overcome two major challenges in stem cell-based cartilage repair: age-related decline in cell function and joint inflammation.

THE IMPORTANCE OF FOETAL MOVEMENT FOR CO-ORDINATED CARTILAGE AND BONE DEVELOPMENT IN UTERO : CLINICAL CONSEQUENCES AND POTENTIAL FOR THERAPY.

DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.47.2000387 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:32:23
This review examines how fetal movement affects skeletal development and its clinical implications. The authors analyzed evidence from human cases of reduced fetal movement and experimental studies in mouse, chick, and zebrafish models to understand the relationship between mechanical forces and bone/cartilage formation. The key findings demonstrate that fetal movement is essential for proper skeleton development, as reduced movement consistently leads to joint dysplasia, contractures, and poorly mineralized bones across species. The research reveals that movement influences critical signaling pathways (WNT, Hedgehog, and TGF-β/BMP) and cytoskeletal gene expression, suggesting these findings could inform stem cell tissue engineering approaches and optimize physical therapy treatments for skeletal disorders.

MECHANICAL LOADING OF CARTILAGE EXPLANTS WITH COMPRESSION AND SLIDING MOTION MODULATES GENE EXPRESSION OF LUBRICIN AND CATABOLIC ENZYMES.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603515581680 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:32:16
This study investigated how sliding motion affects cartilage gene expression by applying different combinations of compressive forces (50 or 100 N) and sliding speeds (10, 40, or 70 mm/s) to cartilage samples using a cylindrical indenter. The researchers used multiple linear regression to correlate mechanical parameters (strain, stress, modulus) with gene expression levels of key cartilage markers including lubricin and catabolic enzymes. The main findings showed that while sliding speed did not affect mechanical properties, higher compressive forces (100 N vs 50 N) significantly increased tissue strain and stress, and strong correlations were found between mechanical parameters and gene expression for TIMP-3, ADAMTS-5, and lubricin under high load conditions. Importantly, sliding speed influenced gene expression even without corresponding changes in mechanical properties, suggesting that cartilage cells can detect and respond to sliding motion through mechanisms beyond simple mechanical deformation.

LUBRICIN RESTORATION IN A MOUSE MODEL OF CONGENITAL DEFICIENCY.

DOI: 10.1002/art.39276 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:32:10
This study investigated whether restoring lubricin (a key joint lubricant) expression could prevent or reverse joint damage in mice born with congenital lubricin deficiency. Researchers used genetically engineered mice and restored lubricin function at different time points (before conception, 3 weeks, 2 months, or 6 months after birth), then evaluated joint health through microscopic examination and friction testing. The results showed that restoring lubricin before conception completely prevented joint disease, while restoration at 3 weeks provided partial improvement in cartilage structure and reduced joint friction. However, restoring lubricin at 2 or 6 months of age provided no beneficial effects, indicating there is only a narrow early window during which lubricin restoration can slow disease progression in congenital deficiency.

MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS IN REGENERATIVE MEDICINE: FOCUS ON ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND INTERVERTEBRAL DISC REGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2015.09.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:32:04
This review examines the potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for treating cartilage and intervertebral disc degeneration, which are major causes of disability worldwide. The authors analyzed MSCs from three main sources—bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cord—focusing particularly on umbilical cord-derived cells and their biological properties, signaling pathways, and applications with biomaterial scaffolds. The review found that MSCs show considerable promise for cartilage and disc repair, with umbilical cord-derived MSCs offering particular advantages for regenerative applications. However, significant technical challenges remain in isolating, expanding, and preparing these cells for clinical use, though the authors are optimistic that combining cell therapies with advanced biomaterials will lead to breakthrough treatments for joint and spine disorders.

DIFFERENTIAL EFFECTS OF TYROSINE-RICH AMELOGENIN PEPTIDE ON CHONDROGENIC AND OSTEOGENIC DIFFERENTIATION OF ADULT CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2292-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:31:55
This study investigated whether tyrosine-rich amelogenin peptide (TRAP) could improve autologous chondrocyte implantation by promoting cartilage formation while preventing unwanted bone-like tissue development. The researchers treated human articular cartilage cells with synthesized TRAP and measured cartilage-specific markers (proteoglycans, collagen type II, chondrogenic genes) and bone/mineralization markers (alkaline phosphatase, calcium deposits, osteogenic genes) under different culture conditions. TRAP successfully enhanced cartilage formation by increasing SOX9 gene expression and simultaneously suppressed harmful bone-like mineralization by reducing IHH gene activity. These findings suggest TRAP could be used to "prime" patients' own cartilage cells before implantation, potentially reducing complications like arthrofibrosis and excessive tissue growth that currently limit this treatment approach.

MECHANOBIOREACTORS FOR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING.

DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2938-2_15 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:31:48
This chapter describes methods for using mechanobioreactors to enhance cartilage tissue engineering through mechanical stimulation. The authors detail techniques for applying direct mechanical forces (compression and shear) to tissue-engineered cartilage constructs in controlled laboratory settings. They also outline analytical methods to measure the biological and mechanical responses following both short-term and long-term mechanical loading protocols. The work demonstrates that mechanical stimulation effectively promotes extracellular matrix production and improves the mechanical properties of engineered cartilage tissue.

SHEAR AND COMPRESSION BIOREACTOR FOR CARTILAGE SYNTHESIS.

DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2938-2_16 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:31:41
This study aimed to develop a bioreactor system that can apply multiple mechanical forces simultaneously to enhance cartilage tissue engineering. The researchers designed and constructed a mechanobioreactor capable of providing both dynamic shear and compressive loading to mimic the natural rolling and squeezing motions that occur in articular joints. The device allows controlled application of mechanical stimuli to stem cells and chondrocytes grown in three-dimensional scaffolds within a sterile culture environment. This bioreactor system provides researchers with a tool to study how combined mechanical forces influence cartilage synthesis and development in tissue engineering applications.

EFFECT OF HIGH-INTENSITY EXERCISE ON INTERLEUKIN-15 EXPRESSION IN RABBIT SYNOVIA.

DOI: 10.4238/2015.October.29.5 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:31:37
This study investigated how high-intensity exercise affects interleukin-15 (IL-15) levels in joint tissue using a rabbit model. Twenty-four rabbits were divided into exercise and control groups, with the exercise group forced to run 60 minutes daily for 4 weeks at 30 m/min, followed by analysis of knee joint cartilage and synovial tissue using microscopy and biochemical assays. The high-intensity exercise group showed significant cartilage damage and joint inflammation (synovitis), along with elevated IL-15 levels in both synovial fluid and tissue compared to controls. The findings suggest that intense exercise may cause joint damage and inflammation, with increased IL-15 potentially playing a role in the development of post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

MULTIPHASIC, MULTISTRUCTURED AND HIERARCHICAL STRATEGIES FOR CARTILAGE REGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-22345-2_9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:31:26
This review examines advanced biomaterial strategies for cartilage regeneration that address the complex structural and mechanical properties of native cartilage tissue. The authors analyzed recent developments in multiphasic, multiscale, multilayered, and hierarchical biomaterial approaches, including various scaffold forms such as sponges, hydrogels, fibers, and microparticles. The key finding is that successful cartilage regeneration requires engineered devices that can simultaneously mimic cartilage's unique zonal architecture, replicate its specific mechanical properties and ECM composition, and promote chondrogenesis through either chondrocyte proliferation or stem cell differentiation. The review highlights that effective cartilage tissue engineering demands a coordinated integration of biomechanical properties, hierarchical structures, extracellular matrix components, and bioactive factors to overcome cartilage's inherently poor healing capacity.

A COMPREHENSIVE MRNA EXPRESSION ANALYSIS OF DEVELOPING CHICKEN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2015.11.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:31:20
This study aimed to comprehensively map gene expression patterns during articular cartilage development to better understand the molecular mechanisms controlling joint formation. The researchers identified 36 genes through literature review and microarray analysis, then examined their spatial and temporal expression patterns in developing chicken phalangeal (finger) joints using molecular techniques. They found three distinct expression patterns: early genes (expressed broadly beyond the joint interzone), late genes (expressed in restricted areas), and constantly expressed genes throughout development. This comprehensive gene expression atlas provides researchers and clinicians with a valuable resource of molecular targets that may be involved in cartilage formation and maintenance, potentially informing future osteoarthritis research and therapeutic development.

CYTOKINE PRECONDITIONING OF ENGINEERED CARTILAGE PROVIDES PROTECTION AGAINST INTERLEUKIN-1 INSULT.

DOI: 10.1186/s13075-015-0876-y · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:31:15
This study investigated whether exposing engineered cartilage to low doses of inflammatory cytokines could protect it from subsequent damage by higher cytokine concentrations that occur in osteoarthritic joints. Researchers used juvenile bovine cartilage constructs and adult canine chondrocytes, applying low-dose IL-1 preconditioning (0.1-1.0 ng/ml for 7 days) followed by a damaging high-dose IL-1 insult (10 ng/ml), and measured mechanical and biochemical properties. Low-dose IL-1 preconditioning (0.1 and 0.5 ng/ml) successfully protected cartilage constructs against subsequent cytokine damage, preserving both mechanical stiffness and tissue composition regardless of timing between preconditioning and insult. This protective effect was replicated using a hypoxia-inducing agent (CoCl2) and showed similar trends in clinically relevant adult chondrocytes, suggesting that preconditioning strategies could improve the survival of cartilage implants in inflammatory joint environments.

STRAIN-INDUCED MECHANOTRANSDUCTION THROUGH PRIMARY CILIA, EXTRACELLULAR ATP, PURINERGIC CALCIUM SIGNALING, AND ERK1/2 TRANSACTIVATES CITED2 AND DOWNREGULATES MMP-1 AND MMP-13 GENE EXPRESSION IN CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2015.11.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:31:08
This study investigated how mechanical strain activates protective gene responses in cartilage cells (chondrocytes) through a specific signaling pathway. Researchers applied cyclic mechanical strain to human chondrocytes and used mouse treadmill experiments, along with targeted gene knockdown techniques to identify key molecular components in the signaling cascade.

The study found that mechanical strain activates a complex signaling pathway starting with primary cilia (cellular antennae), followed by extracellular ATP release, purinergic receptor activation, calcium signaling, and ERK1/2 kinases, which ultimately increases CITED2 gene expression. This CITED2 activation requires specific transcription factors (HIF1α and SP1) and leads to decreased production of cartilage-degrading enzymes MMP-1 and MMP-13.

These findings reveal how beneficial mechanical loading protects cartilage by reducing destructive enzyme production, providing important insights into cartilage health and potential therapeutic targets for joint diseases.

DIFFERENTIATION OF MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS FOR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING: INDIVIDUAL AND SYNERGETIC EFFECTS OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL ENVIRONMENT AND MECHANICAL LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2016.01.037 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:31:00
This review study examined how mechanical loading and three-dimensional scaffold environments work together to influence mesenchymal stem cell differentiation into cartilage tissue for regenerative medicine applications. The authors systematically reviewed existing literature on the individual and combined effects of mechanical stimulation and scaffold properties on chondrogenic differentiation, while also evaluating current techniques for measuring mechanical properties of engineered tissues. The main finding was that contradictory results regarding mechanical loading effects can be explained by differences in scaffold properties, which determine how cells adhere, their shape and distribution, and how mechanical forces are transmitted to the cells. The review identified a significant knowledge gap, noting that most studies only compare two scaffold types rather than investigating the full spectrum of scaffold-loading interactions, and the authors recommend broader studies using high-throughput mechanical testing methods.

DEXAMETHASONE RELEASE FROM WITHIN ENGINEERED CARTILAGE AS A CHONDROPROTECTIVE STRATEGY AGAINST INTERLEUKIN-1Α.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.TEA.2016.0018 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:30:53
This study investigated whether incorporating dexamethasone-releasing microspheres into engineered cartilage could protect the tissue from inflammatory damage while maintaining functional properties. Researchers embedded PLGA microspheres loaded with dexamethasone into chondrocyte-seeded agarose hydrogels, cultured them for 28 days, then exposed them to the inflammatory cytokine IL-1α for 7 days. Constructs with dexamethasone-releasing microspheres achieved native-like mechanical strength and proteoglycan content, and remained protected from IL-1α-induced tissue degradation, unlike control constructs without dexamethasone which showed significant breakdown when exposed to inflammation. These findings suggest that incorporating drug-releasing microspheres into engineered cartilage could be an effective strategy for creating durable tissue grafts that resist inflammatory damage in clinical applications.

ANALYSIS OF FRICTION BETWEEN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND POLYVINYL ALCOHOL HYDROGEL ARTIFICIAL CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1007/s10856-016-5700-y · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:30:46
This study aimed to evaluate the friction and wear properties of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel as an artificial cartilage replacement by testing it against natural articular cartilage. The researchers conducted controlled friction experiments varying load (10-22 N), sliding speed (10-20 mm/s), and lubrication type (Ringer's solution vs. hyaluronic acid solution), along with long-term wear testing. The results showed that friction coefficients ranged from 0.084-0.147 depending on conditions, with hyaluronic acid lubrication providing the lowest friction values even at higher loads. However, the PVA hydrogel experienced significant surface damage and material transfer to the cartilage surface, indicating that surface fatigue and adhesive wear are major concerns that may limit its clinical viability as a cartilage replacement material.

HYDROGELS AS A REPLACEMENT MATERIAL FOR DAMAGED ARTICULAR HYALINE CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.3390/ma9060443 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:30:39
This review examines hydrogels, particularly double network (DN) hydrogels, as potential replacement materials for damaged articular cartilage that cannot heal naturally due to its avascular structure. The authors conducted a literature review covering cartilage structure and properties, current repair methods, alternative materials under development, and integration techniques for replacement materials. They found that DN hydrogels show promise as cartilage substitutes because they are approaching the mechanical strength and toughness of natural hyaline cartilage while providing superior lubrication compared to current replacement materials. The review concludes that these advanced hydrogels could address major limitations of existing treatments, such as inadequate lubrication, wear debris generation, and damage to opposing cartilage surfaces.

DEFICIENT MECHANICAL ACTIVATION OF ANABOLIC TRANSCRIPTS AND POST-TRAUMATIC CARTILAGE DEGENERATION IN MATRILIN-1 KNOCKOUT MICE.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0156676 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:30:33
This study investigated the role of matrilin-1 (MATN1), a cartilage matrix protein, in mechanical signaling and cartilage degeneration using knockout mice. The researchers compared gene expression responses to mechanical loading between normal and MATN1-deficient chondrocytes in culture, measured cartilage mechanical properties, and assessed cartilage damage following surgical destabilization of the knee joint. They found that while normal chondrocytes increased production of key cartilage components (aggrecan and collagen II) in response to mechanical loading, MATN1-deficient cells failed to respond, indicating impaired mechanotransduction. Following joint injury, MATN1-deficient mice developed more severe cartilage degeneration with greater proteoglycan loss and tissue disorganization compared to normal mice, suggesting that MATN1 plays a protective role in post-traumatic osteoarthritis by enabling proper cellular responses to mechanical stress.

MECHANICAL STIMULATION PROTOCOLS OF HUMAN DERIVED CELLS IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING - A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW.

DOI: 10.2174/1574888X11666160614103840 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:30:27
This systematic review aimed to analyze mechanical stimulation protocols used in bioreactors for articular cartilage tissue engineering with human cells, comparing their effects on cell behavior and cartilage formation. The researchers searched three major databases (Allied and Complementary Medicine, Ovid MEDLINE, and EMBASE) from the 1940s-1970s through 2016, applying inclusion and exclusion criteria to identify relevant studies on bioreactor-based mechanical stimulation. The review found that mechanical stimulation consistently enhances chondrogenic (cartilage-forming) properties in human cells cultured for cartilage tissue engineering. However, the authors identified significant challenges in comparing results across studies due to substantial variability in protocols and lack of standardized reporting methods, preventing meta-analysis and highlighting the need for improved standardization in the field.

INFLUENCE OF CARTILAGE INTERSTITIAL FLUID ON THE MRNA LEVELS OF MATRIX PROTEINS, CYTOKINES, METALLOPROTEASES AND THEIR INHIBITORS IN SYNOVIAL MEMBRANE.

DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2016.2684 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:30:21
This study investigated how cartilage interstitial fluid (CIF) affects gene expression in synovial membrane cells to better understand cartilage-synovium interactions. The researchers extracted CIF from newborn rat cartilage using pressure irrigation, analyzed its cytokine content using ELISA, and examined its effects on synovial membrane gene expression using real-time PCR after 4-hour incubations. CIF contained several growth factors (bFGF, IGF-1, TGFβ1, BMP7) and colony-stimulating factors, and significantly upregulated genes involved in cartilage matrix production (collagen I, aggrecan, versican), lubrication (hyaluronan synthases, lubricin), and tissue remodeling (MMPs 2-3, TIMPs 1-3), while downregulating inflammatory cytokines TNF and IL-1β. These findings suggest that cartilage-derived factors in interstitial fluid play an important role in maintaining joint health by promoting matrix synthesis and reducing inflammation in synovial tissues.

ANTIOXIDATIVE THERAPY IN AN EX VIVO HUMAN CARTILAGE TRAUMA-MODEL: ATTENUATION OF TRAUMA-INDUCED CELL LOSS AND ECM-DESTRUCTIVE ENZYMES BY N-ACETYL CYSTEINE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2016.07.019 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:30:12
This study investigated whether N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), an antioxidant therapy, could protect human cartilage from damage following mechanical injury. Researchers used human cartilage samples subjected to controlled impact trauma (0.59 J) and measured cell survival, cell death rates, gene expression of tissue-damaging enzymes, and the release of cartilage breakdown products. NAC treatment significantly improved cell survival, reduced cell death, and decreased the expression and activity of cartilage-degrading enzymes (including MMPs and ADAMTS-4) in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The findings suggest NAC could serve as an effective therapeutic intervention to limit cartilage destruction after injury, providing a foundation for future clinical studies.

EVALUATION OF THE EFFECT OF N-ACETYL-GLUCOSAMINE ADMINISTRATION ON BIOMARKERS FOR CARTILAGE METABOLISM IN HEALTHY INDIVIDUALS WITHOUT SYMPTOMS OF ARTHRITIS: A RANDOMIZED DOUBLE-BLIND PLACEBO-CONTROLLED CLINICAL STUDY.

DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3480 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:30:06
This study evaluated whether N-acetyl-glucosamine (GlcNAc) supplementation could improve cartilage health in people without arthritis symptoms. The researchers conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 48-year-old healthy adults who received either low-dose GlcNAc (500 mg/day), high-dose GlcNAc (1,000 mg/day), or placebo for 16 weeks, measuring blood markers that indicate the balance between cartilage breakdown (C2C) and cartilage formation (PIICP). Both doses of GlcNAc improved the cartilage metabolism ratio compared to placebo, with the strongest protective effects seen in participants who had impaired cartilage metabolism at baseline, particularly those weighing less than 70 kg. The findings suggest that GlcNAc supplementation may help protect cartilage by reducing breakdown and promoting synthesis, with no adverse effects reported.

A NOVEL DUAL-FREQUENCY LOADING SYSTEM FOR STUDYING MECHANOBIOLOGY OF LOAD-BEARING TISSUE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2016.06.080 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:29:59
This study developed a novel dual-frequency loading system to better replicate the complex mechanical environment experienced by bone and cartilage tissues in the body. The system combines low-frequency high-amplitude loading (mimicking main muscular forces) with high-frequency low-amplitude loading (representing stabilizing forces from smaller muscles and ligaments), and was validated using precision interferometers and fluorescence microscopy to measure solute transport in cartilage. The dual-frequency loading significantly enhanced solute transport in articular cartilage compared to single-frequency loading alone, demonstrating improved simulation of natural mechanical conditions. This loading system offers researchers a more physiologically relevant tool for studying mechanobiology and developing tissue engineering strategies for cartilage and bone.

CLINICAL EFFECTIVENESS IN SEVERE KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS AFTER INTRA-ARTICULAR PLATELET-RICH PLASMA THERAPY IN ASSOCIATION WITH HYALURONIC ACID INJECTION: THREE CASE REPORTS.

DOI: 10.2147/CIA.S114795 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:29:44
This case study examined the clinical effectiveness of combined platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and hyaluronic acid (HA) injections for treating severe knee osteoarthritis. The authors treated three patients with advanced knee OA using intra-articular injections of both PRP and HA, then evaluated outcomes through clinical assessment and follow-up X-rays. All three patients experienced significant pain relief and improved walking function, with X-ray images suggesting possible cartilage regeneration. The findings suggest this combined injection therapy may offer a non-surgical treatment option for severe knee OA, potentially delaying the need for joint replacement surgery.

RUNNING DECREASES KNEE INTRA-ARTICULAR CYTOKINE AND CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX CONCENTRATIONS: A PILOT STUDY.

DOI: 10.1007/s00421-016-3474-z · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:29:38
This pilot study investigated how running affects inflammatory markers and cartilage breakdown products within the knee joint of healthy recreational runners. Six participants completed both a 30-minute running session and a 30-minute rest control session while researchers collected synovial fluid (from inside the knee joint) and blood samples before and after each condition to measure inflammatory cytokines and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP). The key findings showed that running significantly decreased inflammatory cytokines (GM-CSF and IL-15) within the knee joint, with greater reductions linked to more foot strikes during running. Additionally, running promoted the movement of COMP (a cartilage breakdown marker) from the joint space into the bloodstream, suggesting enhanced clearance of cartilage metabolites from the joint.

TRIBOLOGICAL REHYDRATION OF CARTILAGE AND ITS POTENTIAL ROLE IN PRESERVING JOINT HEALTH.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2016.09.018 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:29:32
This study investigated whether cartilage can recover interstitial fluid through a mechanism other than the currently accepted theories of osmotic swelling and pressure changes during unloading. The researchers conducted stationary cartilage-on-flat sliding experiments in saline, measuring fluid loss and recovery while eliminating contact migration and bath exposure as potential factors. They discovered that cartilage could recover interstitial fluid lost during static loading simply through sliding motion, even without unloading or contact area changes - a phenomenon they termed "tribological rehydration." This finding suggests that hydrodynamic effects during joint movement play a crucial role not only in lubrication but also in maintaining cartilage hydration and preserving joint space over time.

TOLL-LIKE RECEPTORS AND THEIR SOLUBLE FORMS DIFFER IN THE KNEE AND THUMB BASAL OSTEOARTHRITIC JOINTS.

DOI: 10.1080/17453674.2017.1281058 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:29:26
This study investigated how toll-like receptors (TLRs), which are involved in inflammatory responses, differ between knee and thumb base joints affected by osteoarthritis. The researchers analyzed cartilage samples from both joint types using immunostaining and gene expression analysis, and measured soluble TLR forms in joint fluid using ELISA assays. The key findings showed that TLR expression patterns varied significantly between the two joints, with knee osteoarthritis showing higher TLR4 protein levels while thumb joints had higher TLR4 gene expression and significantly more soluble TLR4 in the joint fluid. The study suggests that different joints may use distinct immune regulatory mechanisms during osteoarthritis progression, potentially explaining why osteoarthritis affects joints differently despite being considered a single disease.

CORRELATION BETWEEN OSTEOARTHRITIC CHANGES IN THE STIFLE JOINT IN DOGS AND THE RESULTS OF ORTHOPEDIC, RADIOGRAPHIC, ULTRASONOGRAPHIC AND ARTHROSCOPIC EXAMINATIONS.

DOI: 10.1007/s11259-017-9680-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:29:20
This study investigated how well different diagnostic methods detect osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs' stifle (knee) joints by comparing orthopedic, radiographic, and ultrasonographic examinations with arthroscopic findings as the reference standard. The researchers examined 44 dogs with stifle joint OA and analyzed correlations between diagnostic findings and anatomical changes visible during arthroscopy. The study found a strong correlation (0.84) between synovial fluid effusion and osteophyte formation, indicating good diagnostic agreement between these two markers of joint degeneration. Key risk factors identified for developing stifle joint OA in dogs included cranial cruciate ligament rupture (present in 88.6% of cases) or patella luxation, female sex, and body weight over 10 kg.

CARTILAGE REGENERATION IN OSTEOARTHRITIC PATIENTS BY A COMPOSITE OF ALLOGENEIC UMBILICAL CORD BLOOD-DERIVED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS AND HYALURONATE HYDROGEL: RESULTS FROM A CLINICAL TRIAL FOR SAFETY AND PROOF-OF-CONCEPT WITH 7 YEARS OF EXTENDED FOLLOW-UP.

DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2016-0157 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:29:08
This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of a stem cell therapy called CartistemTM for treating severe cartilage defects in osteoarthritic knees. Seven patients with advanced osteoarthritis received injections of allogeneic umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells combined with hyaluronic acid hydrogel, followed by comprehensive monitoring over 7 years. The treatment demonstrated good safety with only mild adverse events and no tumor formation, while arthroscopic examination at 12 weeks showed cartilage repair tissue formation. Clinical outcomes including pain and knee function scores improved by 24 weeks and remained stable throughout the 7-year follow-up, with histological analysis confirming hyaline-like cartilage regeneration at 1 year and MRI showing persistent cartilage at 3 years.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN T1RHO MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING, SYNOVIAL FLUID BIOMARKERS, AND THE BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2017.02.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:29:01
This study investigated whether T1rho MRI imaging could serve as a non-invasive method to detect early cartilage changes in osteoarthritis by comparing it with direct tissue analysis and synovial fluid markers. The researchers used porcine knee joints (both healthy and osteoarthritic) to measure T1rho relaxation times via MRI, then directly analyzed the same cartilage samples for composition (proteoglycans, collagen, water content) and mechanical properties, while also measuring biomarkers in synovial fluid. In osteoarthritic regions, T1rho relaxation times were increased and strongly correlated with cartilage deterioration—specifically decreased proteoglycan content and mechanical strength, increased water content and collagen breakdown, and altered synovial fluid biomarkers. The findings were validated in human subjects, where walking decreased T1rho times due to water being squeezed out of cartilage during loading, demonstrating that T1rho MRI can effectively detect cartilage composition changes non-invasively.

HOW EXERCISE INFLUENCES EQUINE JOINT HOMEOSTASIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2017.03.004 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:28:51
This review examines how exercise affects joint health and tissue balance (homeostasis) in horses, with implications for training protocols and osteoarthritis research. The authors analyzed findings from in vivo studies and postmortem analyses of equine joint tissues, supplemented with small animal model data, while also evaluating biomarker analysis methods in synovial fluid. The main findings show that exercise significantly influences the delicate balance within joint tissues, with exercise amount and intensity having lasting effects on tissue characteristics in young horses, while in mature animals it affects the critical balance between healthy adaptation and disease development. The authors conclude that while synovial fluid biomarkers can help assess joint health, their interpretation requires careful consideration and is often complex.

FRICTION, LUBRICATION, AND IN SITU MECHANICS OF POROELASTIC CELLULOSE HYDROGELS.

DOI: 10.1039/c6sm02709a · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:28:41
This study developed a new method to understand friction and lubrication in cellulose hydrogels, which have a structure similar to cartilage and plant cell walls. The researchers created a tribo-rheological technique that measures mechanical properties (stiffness and viscosity) of hydrogel pairs immediately before testing their friction behavior under compression and sliding.

The key finding was that compression creates uneven contact between hydrogels, with actual contact occurring only in an outer ring area rather than across the full surface. When accounting for this actual contact area, friction data from different hydrogel compositions followed a predictable pattern: stiffer hydrogels showed higher friction according to a mathematical relationship (power law with 0.67 exponent).

Testing different plant-based additives revealed that xyloglucan reduced friction between cellulose fibers while arabinoxylan had no significant effect, providing insights into natural lubrication mechanisms in biological tissues.

CHARACTERIZING VISCOELASTICITY OF UNHYDROLYZED CHICKEN STERNAL CARTILAGE EXTRACT SUSPENSIONS: TOWARDS DEVELOPMENT OF INJECTABLE THERAPEUTICS FORMULATIONS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2017.04.025 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:28:30
This study aimed to characterize the viscoelastic properties of chicken sternal cartilage extract suspensions to develop injectable treatments for knee arthritis. The researchers used rheological testing to evaluate how particle size (as-received vs. milled), suspension fluid (water vs. PBS), temperature (37°C vs. 4°C), and particle concentration (2.5-10 wt%) affected the mechanical properties of these suspensions. Key findings showed that the suspensions exhibited shear-thinning behavior, with viscosity and elastic properties increasing with higher particle concentrations, while smaller milled particles and lower temperatures enhanced these viscoelastic characteristics. The detailed characterization revealed that electrostatic forces primarily govern particle interactions, providing essential data for formulating stable injectable cartilage-based therapeutics.

MECHANICAL STIMULATIONS ON HUMAN BONE MARROW MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS ENHANCE CELLS DIFFERENTIATION IN A THREE-DIMENSIONAL LAYERED SCAFFOLD.

DOI: 10.1002/term.2461 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:28:23
This study aimed to develop a stratified scaffold that mimics natural cartilage structure by combining different biomaterials with mechanical stimulation to enhance stem cell differentiation for cartilage repair. The researchers used a spraying method to create layered scaffolds containing human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in alginate/hyaluronic acid gel (for cartilage layer) and alginate/hydroxyapatite gel (for bone layer), then applied daily mechanical loading for 28 days while assessing cell viability, differentiation, and mechanical properties. The results showed that mechanical stimulation enhanced appropriate cell differentiation in each layer - producing cartilage-specific proteins (glycosaminoglycans and type II collagen) in the HA layer and hypertrophic cartilage markers (collagen X) in the hydroxyapatite layer, while maintaining good cell viability. The study demonstrates that combining stratified biomaterial scaffolds with mechanical loading can effectively guide stem cells to form tissue-appropriate matrices that could potentially repair full-thickness cartilage defects.

EFFECTS OF MECHANICAL LOADING ON HUMAN MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS FOR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING.

DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26018 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:28:15
This review examines how mechanical loading affects human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in cartilage tissue engineering applications, aiming to address the limitations of current cartilage repair techniques like autologous chondrocyte implantation and microfracture. The authors summarized recent research on different types of mechanical loading and their effects on MSC differentiation into cartilage-producing cells, while also discussing the cellular signaling pathways involved in this process. The review highlights that while mechanical loading is crucial for creating functional engineered cartilage, researchers are still working to determine the optimal loading conditions and protocols. The findings suggest that understanding how mechanical forces influence MSC development could lead to better tissue-engineered cartilage therapies that avoid problematic cell changes and improve treatment outcomes for cartilage defects.

STEPWISE PRECONDITIONING ENHANCES MESENCHYMAL STEM CELL-BASED CARTILAGE REGENERATION THROUGH EPIGENETIC MODIFICATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2017.05.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:28:09
This study investigated whether stepwise preconditioning of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in chondrogenic medium before expansion could improve cartilage regeneration for osteoarthritis treatment. Researchers compared preconditioned MSCs (M-MSCs) with untreated MSCs using in vitro assays for cell function, epigenetic analysis of key stem cell genes (NANOG and OCT4), and tested therapeutic effects in a rat osteoarthritis model through single joint injections. The stepwise preconditioning enhanced cell survival, proliferation, and cartilage-forming ability, with epigenetic analysis revealing that this improvement was linked to demethylation (activation) of NANOG and OCT4 genes. In the osteoarthritis model, preconditioned MSCs showed superior therapeutic effects with better cell survival in joints and improved cartilage repair compared to untreated MSCs, suggesting this preconditioning approach could enhance stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis.

EARLY GENETIC RESTORATION OF LUBRICIN EXPRESSION IN TRANSGENIC MICE MITIGATES CHONDROCYTE PEROXYNITRITE RELEASE AND CASPASE-3 ACTIVATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2017.05.012 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:28:01
This study examined whether restoring lubricin expression after a brief period of deficiency in early life could protect joint health in genetically modified mice. Researchers used transgenic mice that initially lacked lubricin but had the protein restored at either 7 or 14 days of age, then measured joint friction, cellular damage markers (caspase-3 and peroxynitrite), and cartilage degeneration at 8 weeks of age following mechanical loading. The results showed that early lubricin restoration significantly reduced harmful cellular processes (peroxynitrite release and caspase-3 activation) compared to mice that never expressed lubricin, but did not fully restore normal joint lubrication properties. These findings suggest that lubricin's protective anti-inflammatory effects on cartilage cells can be partially recovered even after early deficiency, though complete restoration of joint lubrication may require undamaged cartilage surfaces from birth.

THE EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT FREQUENCY TREADMILL EXERCISE ON LIPOXIN A4 AND ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEGENERATION IN AN EXPERIMENTAL MODEL OF MONOSODIUM IODOACETATE-INDUCED OSTEOARTHRITIS IN RATS.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179162 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:27:54
This study investigated how different exercise frequencies affect cartilage protection and inflammation in rats with chemically-induced knee osteoarthritis. Researchers divided 50 rats into control and osteoarthritis groups, with three exercise groups performing the same total daily exercise (60 minutes at 18 m/min) split into 1, 2, or 3 sessions over 8 weeks, then measured inflammatory markers, cartilage health indicators, and lipoxin A4 levels using various laboratory techniques. The key finding was that splitting the daily exercise into three shorter sessions provided the best cartilage protection compared to one or two longer sessions, with all exercise groups showing increased anti-inflammatory lipoxin A4 levels and improved cartilage markers. The researchers concluded that more frequent, shorter exercise bouts may be more beneficial for osteoarthritis management, likely through enhanced anti-inflammatory pathways involving lipoxin A4 and reduced NF-κB signaling.

HYALURONAN SUPPLEMENTATION AS A MECHANICAL REGULATOR OF CARTILAGE TISSUE DEVELOPMENT UNDER JOINT-KINEMATIC-MIMICKING LOADING.

DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2017.0255 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:27:47
This study investigated whether adding hyaluronic acid to culture medium could improve cartilage tissue development by mimicking the lubricating properties of healthy synovial fluid during mechanical loading. The researchers supplemented culture medium with different concentrations of hyaluronic acid to replicate synovial fluid viscosity at various health states, then applied joint-like mechanical loading to cartilage tissue constructs. They found that hyaluronic acid supplementation, particularly at physiologically healthy concentrations (2.0 mg/mL), significantly improved chondrocyte phenotype preservation with a 4.5-fold increase in the collagen II to collagen I gene expression ratio compared to controls, along with better retention of cartilage matrix components in mechanically loaded regions. These results suggest that replicating synovial fluid properties creates a more favorable mechanical environment for cartilage tissue engineering and may enhance our understanding of how joint mechanics influence cartilage health.

SLIDING ENHANCES FLUID AND SOLUTE TRANSPORT INTO BURIED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE CONTACTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2017.08.014 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:27:38
This study investigated whether sliding motion during joint movement actively drives fluid and solute transport into articular cartilage, beyond the traditionally recognized mechanisms of passive diffusion and mechanical pumping from loading. The researchers used large cartilage samples that preserved natural joint geometry and employed confocal microscopy to track fluorescent solute movement from the surrounding lubricant into buried contact areas during sliding at different speeds (0, 1, and 60 mm/s). The key finding was that high-speed sliding (60 mm/s) significantly enhanced solute transport into the center of cartilage contact areas—transport that was orders of magnitude greater than diffusion alone and was not observed at slower speeds. These results provide the first direct evidence that sliding motion creates hydrodynamic pressures that actively pump nutrients into cartilage tissue, which has important implications for understanding joint health and developing cartilage treatments.

[ATDC-5 GROWTH PROMOTED BY SUSTAINED-RELEASING CHITOSAN MICROSPHERES LOADING TGF-Β1 IN ARTIFICIAL CARTILAGE SCAFFOLDS].

DOI: 10.13345/j.cjb.160360 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:27:31
This study aimed to enhance chondrocyte growth in artificial cartilage scaffolds by developing a sustained-release delivery system for TGF-β1, a growth factor that promotes cartilage formation. The researchers created chitosan microspheres loaded with TGF-β1 using emulsification and cross-linking techniques, then incorporated these into collagen-hyaluronic acid-chondroitin sulfate scaffolds and cultured ATDC-5 chondrocytes within them. The microspheres were uniform (100 nm diameter) with high absorption capacity and showed controlled degradation, releasing TGF-β1 rapidly in the first 24 hours then gradually over 120 hours. Cell viability assays and fluorescence staining confirmed that the scaffolds supported chondrocyte growth, with the TGF-β1-loaded microspheres significantly enhancing cell proliferation compared to controls.

SYNERGISTIC EFFECTS ON MESENCHYMAL STEM CELL-BASED CARTILAGE REGENERATION BY CHONDROGENIC PRECONDITIONING AND MECHANICAL STIMULATION.

DOI: 10.1186/s13287-017-0672-5 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:27:25
This study investigated whether combining chondrogenic preconditioning with mechanical stimulation could improve mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) performance in cartilage repair. The researchers first treated bone marrow MSCs with cartilage-forming factors, then encapsulated these "manipulated MSCs" (M-MSCs) in hyaluronic acid scaffolds and applied dynamic compression for 14 days before testing in mouse and rat cartilage defect models. The preconditioned M-MSCs showed better cartilage-forming ability and survival compared to untreated MSCs, and the combination of preconditioning plus mechanical loading significantly enhanced new cartilage formation in mice and cartilage healing in rat joint defects. These findings suggest that preparing MSCs with both biochemical and mechanical cues before implantation could substantially improve stem cell-based cartilage repair therapies.

A NOVEL HYBRID MULTICHANNEL BIPHASIC CALCIUM PHOSPHATE GRANULE-BASED COMPOSITE SCAFFOLD FOR CARTILAGE TISSUE REGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1177/0885328217741757 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:27:17
This study aimed to develop a novel hybrid scaffold combining multiple biomaterials for improved cartilage tissue regeneration. The researchers created a complex composite by coating biphasic calcium phosphate granules with hyaluronic acid-gelatin hydrogel, then embedding BMP-7-loaded PLGA microspheres modified with polydopamine into this matrix. The hybrid scaffold demonstrated superior properties compared to simpler versions, including sustained BMP-7 release (60% retained after 28 days), enhanced mechanical strength and swelling capacity, and improved cell viability for both bone and cartilage cell lines. These findings suggest the multi-component scaffold design shows promise as a biomaterial platform for cartilage repair applications.

EFFECTS OF INFLAMMATION ON MULTISCALE BIOMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CARTILAGINOUS CELLS AND TISSUES.

DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.6b00671 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:27:12
This review examines how inflammation affects the mechanical properties of cartilaginous tissues at multiple biological scales, from subcellular to tissue level, with particular focus on articular cartilage and intervertebral discs during degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis and back pain. The authors analyzed existing literature on inflammatory stimuli (primarily TNF, interleukins, and lipopolysaccharide) and their effects on mechanotransduction, mechanosensitivity, and overall biomechanical function in cartilaginous tissues. Key findings indicate that inflammation significantly alters mechanical properties and cellular responses to loading, with effects that vary depending on the specific tissue type, timing, and magnitude of inflammatory exposure. The review concludes that understanding these multiscale biomechanical changes during inflammation could guide the development of novel therapeutic approaches for treating cartilage-related degenerative diseases.

IN VIVO MEASUREMENT OF SWALLOWING BY MONITORING THYROID CARTILAGE MOVEMENT IN HEALTHY SUBJECTS USING THICKENED LIQUID SAMPLES AND ITS COMPARISON WITH SENSORY EVALUATION.

DOI: 10.1111/jtxs.12261 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:27:02
This study aimed to investigate whether objective measurement of swallowing mechanics could replace subjective sensory evaluation when assessing thickened liquid textures. The researchers used bendable pressure sensors to monitor thyroid cartilage movement and electromyography to measure muscle activity in 8 healthy male subjects (average age 29.6 years) while they swallowed 10ml samples of thickened liquids, then compared these measurements to the subjects' perceived ratings of cohesiveness and adhesiveness. The key finding was that two objective measures—thyroid cartilage activity and maximum displacement—showed strong negative correlations (r > -0.9, p < 0.01) with perceived cohesiveness, suggesting this physiological monitoring approach could provide a more objective alternative to traditional texture assessment methods. This technique may be particularly valuable for developing foods for dysphagia patients, though the authors note that future studies should include this patient population.

A NOVEL BIOREACTOR SYSTEM FOR BIAXIAL MECHANICAL LOADING ENHANCES THE PROPERTIES OF TISSUE-ENGINEERED HUMAN CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-16523-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:26:55
This study aimed to develop and test a novel automated bioreactor system capable of applying precise mechanical loading to enhance tissue-engineered human cartilage. The researchers encapsulated human articular chondrocytes in gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and hyaluronic acid methacrylate (HAMA) hydrogels, then subjected them to either uniaxial or biaxial mechanical stimulation using their new bioreactor system. The results showed that both uni- and biaxial mechanical loading increased the expression of cartilage-specific genes, with intermittent biaxial loading being particularly effective at promoting the accumulation of hyaline cartilage-specific extracellular matrix. These findings demonstrate that automated mechanical stimulation can significantly improve the quality of tissue-engineered cartilage, potentially leading to better clinical outcomes for joint disorder treatments.

ADIPOSE-DERIVED STEM CELLS IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE REGENERATION: CURRENT CONCEPTS AND OPTIMIZATION STRATEGIES.

DOI: 10.14670/HH-11-955 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:26:49
This review examines the current state and optimization strategies for using adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) in treating knee osteoarthritis and cartilage damage. The authors conducted a comprehensive literature review focusing on clinical trials and recent optimization approaches for ASC-based cartilage regeneration therapies. The review found that ASCs offer significant advantages over bone marrow stem cells and autologous chondrocytes due to their easier harvesting, abundant availability, and lower immune rejection risk, with clinical trials since 2011 demonstrating safety and efficacy. However, the authors identified that regenerated cartilage often shows structural abnormalities, leading researchers to investigate optimization strategies including careful cell source selection, preconditioning techniques, and combination delivery approaches to improve therapeutic outcomes.

DYNAMIC MECHANICAL COMPRESSION OF CHONDROCYTES FOR TISSUE ENGINEERING: A CRITICAL REVIEW.

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2017.00076 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:26:42
This review examined how dynamic mechanical compression affects chondrocytes (cartilage cells) in tissue engineering applications, aiming to understand whether mechanical loading can promote cartilage regeneration. The authors systematically reviewed literature from PubMed on dynamic compression bioreactors used with primary and cultured chondrocytes, analyzing study designs, loading conditions, and outcomes across different research approaches. Early studies using primary bovine chondrocytes in hydrogels with physiologic single-axis compression showed consistently positive results for tissue-level outcomes like improved biochemical synthesis and mechanical properties. However, later studies using more complex biomaterials, different cell sources, and sophisticated loading regimes failed to consistently reproduce these benefits, particularly for important tissue engineering markers like collagen content and mechanical stiffness, highlighting the need for standardized methods in this field.

INFLUENCE OF CARTILAGE INTERSTITIAL FLUID ON GENE EXPRESSION IN CRUCIATE LIGAMENT FIBROBLASTS.

DOI: 10.3892/etm.2017.5384 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:26:35
This study investigated how cartilage interstitial fluid (CIF) - the fluid squeezed out of cartilage during joint movement - affects gene expression in cruciate ligament fibroblasts, since these cells are exposed to cartilage-derived factors following ligament injury. The researchers extracted CIF from newborn rat cartilage and cultured adult rat cruciate ligament fibroblasts with either natural CIF or synthetic CIF-like cocktails, then measured gene expression changes using quantitative PCR.

CIF treatment upregulated genes involved in cartilage matrix production (HAS1, HAS2, aggrecan, lubricin) and some inflammatory mediators, while downregulating collagen type I and certain matrix-degrading enzymes, whereas the synthetic CIF-like cocktail showed both overlapping and distinct effects on gene expression. The findings suggest that CIF contains complex mixtures of bioactive factors that significantly influence cruciate ligament cell behavior, indicating that improved understanding of CIF composition could lead to better treatments for joint and tendon injuries.

FOXO TRANSCRIPTION FACTORS MODULATE AUTOPHAGY AND PROTEOGLYCAN 4 IN CARTILAGE HOMEOSTASIS AND OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aan0746 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:26:28
This study investigated how FOXO transcription factors regulate cartilage health and osteoarthritis (OA) development using mouse models with specific deletions of FOXO1, FOXO3, and FOXO4 genes in cartilage cells. The researchers analyzed cartilage structure and gene expression in knockout mice at various ages, performed cell culture experiments, and tested FOXO1 overexpression in OA chondrocytes. Mice lacking all three FOXO factors (triple knockout) or just FOXO1 developed spontaneous OA-like changes by 4-6 months of age, with reduced autophagy genes, decreased antioxidant defenses, and lower levels of proteoglycan 4 (a joint lubricant). The findings suggest that FOXO transcription factors are essential for maintaining healthy cartilage by promoting protective cellular processes and preventing the inflammatory and degenerative changes characteristic of osteoarthritis.

MAPPING THE SPATIOTEMPORAL EVOLUTION OF SOLUTE TRANSPORT IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPLANTS REVEALS HOW CARTILAGE RECOVERS FLUID WITHIN THE CONTACT AREA DURING SLIDING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2018.01.041 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:26:21
This study aimed to understand how articular cartilage maintains fluid within contact areas during joint sliding by investigating the mechanisms behind "tribological rehydration" - a recently discovered phenomenon where sliding motion enhances solute transport into compressed cartilage. The researchers used in situ confocal microscopy to track fluorescent solute movement in cartilage explants during controlled sliding experiments, with periodic interruptions to scan the entire contact area. The key finding was that sliding drives pressure-driven fluid flow from the contact periphery through the cartilage matrix (rather than through surface films), enabling cartilage to actively recover hydration even under static load through a dynamic balance between load-induced fluid loss and sliding-induced recovery. This mechanism helps explain how cartilage maintains its critical interstitial fluid for mechanical protection and nutrient transport during joint motion.

THE EFFECT OF AEROBIC WALKING AND LOWER BODY RESISTANCE EXERCISE ON SERUM COMP AND HYALURONAN, IN BOTH MALES AND FEMALES.

DOI: 10.1007/s00421-018-3837-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:26:15
This study investigated how different types of exercise affect blood markers of cartilage metabolism in healthy young adults. Thirty participants (15 males, 15 females) completed two 40-minute exercise sessions - aerobic walking at 80% maximum heart rate and lower body resistance training - while researchers measured serum levels of COMP (cartilage oligomeric matrix protein) and hyaluronan before, immediately after, and 30 minutes post-exercise. Both exercise types increased COMP levels by approximately 27-29%, with levels remaining elevated after walking, while hyaluronan concentrations showed no change regardless of exercise type. The study found consistent exercise responses between men and women, though men had higher baseline COMP levels and thicker femoral cartilage, while women had higher hyaluronan levels, suggesting sex-related differences in cartilage composition but similar acute responses to mechanical loading.

HEALING OF OSTEOCHONDRAL DEFECTS IMPLANTED WITH BIOMIMETIC SCAFFOLDS OF POLY(Ε-CAPROLACTONE)/HYDROXYAPATITE AND GLYCIDYL-METHACRYLATE-MODIFIED HYALURONIC ACID IN A MINIPIG.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms19041125 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:26:07
This study investigated the use of biomimetic scaffolds to repair cartilage defects in minipig knees over 12 months. The researchers created layered scaffolds using 3D printing with poly(ε-caprolactone)/hydroxyapatite, then added a hyaluronic acid hydrogel containing growth factor (TGF-β1) on top. The scaffolds successfully promoted partial cartilage regeneration with some mature cartilage features, whereas control defects filled only with fibrocartilage (inferior repair tissue). However, the scaffold's persistence in the bone area may have slowed overall healing, suggesting that future scaffold designs should better match the natural regeneration timeline of both cartilage and underlying bone.

IL4-10 FUSION PROTEIN HAS CHONDROPROTECTIVE, ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND POTENTIALLY ANALGESIC EFFECTS IN THE TREATMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2018.05.005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:26:00
This study aimed to evaluate whether a novel fusion protein combining interleukin-4 and interleukin-10 (IL4-10 FP) could serve as an effective disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug by providing chondroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects in a single treatment. The researchers tested IL4-10 FP using human osteoarthritic cartilage and synovial tissue cultures to measure proteoglycan turnover and inflammatory mediator release, and evaluated pain relief through force-plate analysis in a canine osteoarthritis model following intra-articular injection. The fusion protein demonstrated significant chondroprotective effects by increasing proteoglycan synthesis and reducing its breakdown, while also decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8) and the cartilage-degrading enzyme MMP-3 in both cartilage and synovial tissues. Additionally, dogs treated with intra-articular IL4-10 FP showed improved joint loading, suggesting potential analgesic benefits, indicating this fusion protein may represent a promising multi-target therapeutic approach for osteoarthritis treatment.

INTERLEUKIN-10 AND COLLAGEN TYPE II IMMUNOEXPRESSION ARE MODULATED BY PHOTOBIOMODULATION ASSOCIATED TO AEROBIC AND AQUATIC EXERCISES IN AN EXPERIMENTAL MODEL OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1007/s10103-018-2541-6 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:25:54
This study investigated whether combining photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy with exercise training could reduce cartilage damage in rats with experimentally-induced osteoarthritis. Fifty rats were divided into five groups and treated with either aerobic treadmill training, aquatic exercise, or these exercises combined with PBM therapy for 8 weeks, with cartilage changes assessed through histological analysis and protein expression measurements. All treatment groups showed reduced cartilage degradation compared to untreated controls, with increased levels of protective factors including anti-inflammatory interleukin-10 and cartilage-building collagen type II. The findings suggest that both exercise types, whether used alone or combined with PBM therapy, effectively protect cartilage and maintain joint tissue integrity in this osteoarthritis model.

MECHANOADAPTATION: ARTICULAR CARTILAGE THROUGH THICK AND THIN.

DOI: 10.1113/JP275451 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:25:48
This review study aimed to distinguish cartilage changes caused by disuse atrophy from those occurring in osteoarthritis, and to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying cartilage mechanoadaptation. The authors conducted a comprehensive literature review, examining historical clinical observations (from polio patients and stroke victims) and experimental joint immobilization studies from the 1980s. Key findings showed that joint disuse causes substantial cartilage volume loss and decreased synthesis of matrix molecules (particularly sulfated proteoglycans), with distinct structural and metabolic features that differ from osteoarthritic degeneration. The authors conclude that while multiple mechanosensing mechanisms in cartilage have been identified, the precise molecular pathways responsible for disuse-related cartilage atrophy remain poorly understood.

EVALUATION OF THE EFFECT OF THE ADMINISTRATION OF A GLUCOSAMINE‑CONTAINING SUPPLEMENT ON BIOMARKERS FOR CARTILAGE METABOLISM IN SOCCER PLAYERS: A RANDOMIZED DOUBLE‑BLIND PLACEBO‑CONTROLLED STUDY.

DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.9396 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:25:43
This randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study investigated whether glucosamine supplementation could protect cartilage in healthy collegiate soccer players without joint problems. Forty-three players were randomly assigned to receive either 2g/day of glucosamine or placebo for 16 weeks, with researchers measuring urine and blood markers of cartilage breakdown (CTX-II and C2C) and cartilage formation (CPII). The results showed that glucosamine supplementation significantly reduced markers of cartilage degradation (CTX-II and C2C) compared to placebo, while cartilage synthesis markers remained unchanged, suggesting a protective effect on cartilage metabolism. The authors conclude that glucosamine may help prevent cartilage breakdown in healthy athletes engaged in high-impact sports, with no adverse effects observed during the study period.

CAPSTAN-LIKE MECHANISM IN HYALURONAN-PHOSPHOLIPID SYSTEMS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2018.08.002 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:25:35
This study investigated how hyaluronic acid (HA) and phospholipids (PL) interact to provide lubrication in articular cartilage through a proposed "capstan-like" mechanism. The researchers used molecular dynamics simulations where HA molecules were wrapped around PL micelles and subjected to constant pulling forces, while examining how force magnitude and solvent viscosity affected the interactions. The simulations revealed that the PL micelles rotate as HA unwinds around them, with the efficiency depending on the micelle's available surface area and the applied force magnitude. The movement followed a slide-to-roll relationship that was strongly influenced by solvent viscosity, with viscous solvents showing double the slide-to-roll coefficient compared to low-viscosity conditions, suggesting this mechanism may contribute to cartilage's superior lubricating properties.

EARLY INTERVENTION OF SWIMMING EXERCISES ATTENUATE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DESTRUCTION IN A RAT MODEL OF ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT AND MENISCUS KNEE INJURIES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.10.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:25:24
This study investigated whether the timing of swimming exercise affects cartilage protection in rats with knee injuries that lead to post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Researchers used 32 rats that underwent ACL and meniscus surgery, then randomly assigned them to receive either early swimming (starting 3 days post-surgery) or delayed swimming (starting 3 months post-surgery), with each group swimming 30 minutes daily for 28 days. The results showed that early swimming significantly preserved cartilage quality by maintaining collagen type II levels and reducing harmful MMP13 enzyme expression, while delayed swimming provided fewer benefits. These findings suggest that starting exercise therapy very soon after knee injury offers greater cartilage protection than waiting until osteoarthritis has already developed.

EFFECT OF HYALURONIC ACID ON PHOSPHOLIPID MODEL MEMBRANES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2018.10.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:25:18
This study investigated how hyaluronic acid (HA) interacts with phospholipid membranes to understand its role in joint lubrication. The researchers used multiple analytical techniques including calorimetry, spectroscopy, scattering, and microscopy to examine HA's effects on lipid bilayers and monolayers under various pressures that mimic joint loading conditions. The results showed that HA does not significantly interact with or penetrate lipid membranes, suggesting it does not directly modify membrane properties for lubrication. Instead, high molecular weight HA likely contributes to joint lubrication through an independent mechanism involving excluded volume effects that influence synovial fluid flow properties, with other synovial fluid components potentially playing more direct roles in the lubrication process.

A NOVEL MECHANOBIOLOGICAL MODEL CAN PREDICT HOW PHYSIOLOGICALLY RELEVANT DYNAMIC LOADING CAUSES PROTEOGLYCAN LOSS IN MECHANICALLY INJURED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33759-3 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:25:08
This study aimed to develop a computational model that can predict proteoglycan loss in injured cartilage following mechanical loading. The researchers used bovine cartilage samples that were first injured through compression, then subjected to 12 days of dynamic loading while measuring fixed charge density (FCD) changes over time using digital densitometry. They developed three different computational algorithms based on deviatoric strain, shear strain, and fluid velocity to predict FCD loss patterns around cartilage lesions. The fluid velocity-based model showed the most uniform and accurate prediction of proteoglycan loss around cartilage defects, successfully matching experimental measurements and potentially enabling future prediction of cartilage degeneration and optimization of rehabilitation strategies.

PHYSIOLOGIC MEDIUM MAINTAINS THE HOMEOSTASIS OF IMMATURE BOVINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPLANTS IN LONG-TERM CULTURE.

DOI: 10.1115/1.4041901 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:25:01
This study aimed to develop a culture medium with physiologic concentrations of key metabolic mediators to better maintain cartilage tissue homeostasis during long-term laboratory studies. The researchers tested immature bovine cartilage explants in culture media containing near-physiologic levels of glucose, amino acids, cortisol, insulin, and ascorbic acid (similar to synovial fluid concentrations) and assessed tissue mechanical properties and matrix composition over one month. Key findings showed that cortisol absence led to tissue swelling and softening, while excessive anabolic mediators (glucose, amino acids, insulin) caused matrix accumulation and stiffening. The physiologic medium formulation successfully maintained stable cartilage properties over the culture period, providing a valuable tool for future cartilage research that more accurately reflects the joint environment.

EFFECTS OF ENDOPROSTHESIS HEAD MATERIAL ON ACETABULAR CARTILAGE METABOLISM: AN ANIMAL STUDY USING CROSSBRED PIGS.

DOI: 10.1272/jnms.JNMS.2018_85-50 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:24:55
This study investigated how different endoprosthesis head materials affect acetabular cartilage metabolism when articulating directly against cartilage. The researchers used an organ culture model with acetabular cartilage from crossbred pigs, mechanically loading either cobalt-chrome (Co-Cr) or ceramic heads against the cartilage and measuring inflammatory markers, hyaluronic acid levels, and gene expression. The ceramic heads produced significantly less cartilage damage compared to Co-Cr heads, evidenced by lower inflammatory cytokine IL-1β levels, reduced hyaluronic acid release, higher protective type II collagen expression, and lower inflammatory gene expression. These findings suggest that ceramic materials cause fewer adverse biological effects on cartilage and may be preferable for endoprosthesis applications across multiple joints.

PRG4 PREVENTS OSTEOARTHRITIS INDUCED BY DOMINANT-NEGATIVE INTERFERENCE OF TGF-ß SIGNALING IN MICE.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0210601 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:24:48
This study investigated whether maintaining PRG4 (lubricin) expression could prevent osteoarthritis in mice with impaired TGF-β signaling, which mimics age-related osteoarthritis better than surgical models. Researchers compared wild-type mice, mice with dominant-negative TGF-β receptor (DNIIR), and bitransgenic mice expressing both DNIIR and PRG4, using behavioral tests, imaging, histology, and molecular analysis. Mice that maintained PRG4 expression showed significantly better outcomes compared to DNIIR mice, including improved walking ability, reduced cartilage damage, thicker cartilage, and lower osteoarthritis severity scores. The protective effects occurred through PRG4's joint lubrication function rather than by restoring TGF-β signaling, suggesting PRG4 could be a therapeutic target for age-related osteoarthritis.

INFLUENCE OF SUTURES ON CARTILAGE INTEGRITY: DO MENISCUS SUTURES HARM CARTILAGE? AN EXPERIMENTAL ANIMAL STUDY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2018.11.040 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:24:42
This experimental study investigated whether different suture materials used in meniscus repair could damage adjacent cartilage during joint movement. The researchers used a friction testing setup with porcine knee specimens, comparing cartilage damage when loaded against normal meniscus (control) versus meniscus repaired with braided nonabsorbable or absorbable monofilament sutures, then assessed damage using visual staining and microscopic analysis. Both suture types caused significant damage to the superficial cartilage layers during repeated loading cycles, with braided nonabsorbable sutures producing slightly deeper damage, though the difference between suture materials was not statistically significant. The study also found that sutures positioned perpendicular to joint surface motion caused more extensive cartilage defects than those oriented parallel to the movement direction.

CHONDROPROTECTIVE ACTION OF GLUCOSAMINE, A CHITOSAN MONOMER, ON THE JOINT HEALTH OF ATHLETES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.03.234 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:24:36
This study investigated whether glucosamine supplementation could protect cartilage in soccer and rugby players who experience intense joint loading during training and competition. The researchers measured urinary biomarkers of cartilage breakdown (CTX-II) and synthesis (CPII) in athletes before and after glucosamine supplementation, comparing these levels to non-athlete controls.

The key findings showed that athletes had significantly higher levels of cartilage degradation markers compared to non-athletes, while cartilage synthesis markers remained normal, indicating an imbalance favoring cartilage breakdown. Glucosamine supplementation successfully reduced the cartilage degradation marker (CTX-II) in athletes without affecting cartilage synthesis (CPII), suggesting it helped restore a healthier balance of cartilage metabolism and provided protective effects against exercise-induced cartilage damage.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND MENISCUS REVEAL HIGHER FRICTION IN SWING PHASE THAN IN STANCE PHASE UNDER DYNAMIC GAIT CONDITIONS.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42254-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:24:30
This study investigated how the friction properties of knee cartilage and meniscus change under realistic walking conditions, compared to the static laboratory conditions typically used in previous research. The researchers used a dynamic friction testing device to simulate the varying loads and movements that occur during different phases of walking (stance phase when the foot is on the ground vs. swing phase when the leg is moving forward), and also tested a potential meniscal replacement biomaterial.

The key finding was that both cartilage and meniscus showed significantly higher friction coefficients during the swing phase compared to the stance phase of gait when tested under physiological conditions. The study also revealed that static laboratory testing conditions underestimate friction coefficients compared to dynamic gait conditions, suggesting that traditional testing methods may not accurately reflect how these tissues actually perform in the body during normal walking.

HYALURONAN-CHONDROITIN SULFATE ANOMALOUS CROSSLINKING DUE TO TEMPERATURE CHANGES.

DOI: 10.3390/polym10050560 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:24:23
This study investigated how temperature changes affect the molecular interactions between hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate, two key lubricating molecules in joint cartilage. The researchers used computer simulations (molecular dynamics) to model these molecules in water at different temperatures (300-320 K) that mimic conditions during physical activities like walking and jogging. The simulations revealed that when chondroitin sulfate is added to hyaluronic acid solutions, it promotes the formation of more intermolecular hydrogen bonds compared to hyaluronic acid alone, creating enhanced crosslinking between the molecules. These findings suggest that the combination of these two molecules creates a more stable lubricating network that can better maintain joint lubrication properties under varying temperature conditions during physical activity.

HYPOXIC PRECONDITIONING ENHANCES BONE MARROW-DERIVED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELL SURVIVAL IN A LOW OXYGEN AND NUTRIENT-LIMITED 3D MICROENVIRONMENT.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603519841675 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:24:16
This study investigated whether preconditioning mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with low oxygen (hypoxia) and/or growth factor TGF-β3 could improve their survival and function in harsh environments similar to damaged cartilage and intervertebral discs. The researchers exposed bovine MSCs to different preconditioning treatments, analyzed changes in gene expression using microarrays, then tested cell survival and cartilage-like tissue production in low oxygen, nutrient-poor 3D cultures. Hypoxic preconditioning activated genes related to growth, metabolism, and stress response, and significantly improved MSC survival across all donors in the challenging culture conditions, while TGF-β3 preconditioning actually reduced survival. The findings suggest that exposing MSCs to low oxygen conditions before transplantation could enhance their ability to survive and function in the harsh environments of damaged cartilage and discs.

OSTEOARTHRITIS BIOMARKER RESPONSES AND CARTILAGE ADAPTATION TO EXERCISE: A REVIEW OF ANIMAL AND HUMAN MODELS.

DOI: 10.1111/sms.13435 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:24:09
This review aimed to evaluate how different types of exercise affect osteoarthritis (OA) development and progression by examining biomarker responses and cartilage adaptations in both animal and human studies. The authors conducted a literature review focusing on OA biomarkers that reflect joint remodeling and cartilage changes, moving beyond traditional radiographic measures that poorly correlate with patient symptoms. The review highlighted that while exercise has potential preventive and therapeutic benefits for OA, the evidence remains conflicted regarding which types of exercise are beneficial versus harmful for joint health. The authors concluded that combining biomarker analysis with imaging evidence could help clinicians develop more personalized, evidence-based exercise prescriptions for OA management.

CHONDROGENESIS OF HUMAN MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS BY MICRORNA LOADED TRIPLE POLYSACCHARIDE NANOPARTICLE SYSTEM.

DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2019.05.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:24:03
This study aimed to develop a novel nanoparticle delivery system for microRNA-149-5p to promote cartilage regeneration in osteoarthritis treatment. The researchers created nanoparticles using three natural polysaccharides (chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, and chitosan) and optimized their composition, then loaded them with microRNA-149-5p, which is reduced in osteoarthritis patients. The key finding was that nanoparticles with higher chondroitin sulfate content were smaller and achieved the best gene delivery efficiency, successfully increasing microRNA-149-5p levels while decreasing its target gene FUT-1. The dual benefit of both delivering therapeutic microRNA and providing chondroitin sulfate enhanced cartilage formation (chondrogenesis) in human mesenchymal stem cells, suggesting this approach could offer a promising treatment strategy for osteoarthritis.

ASSESSMENT OF VITAMIN D SUPPLEMENTATION ON ARTICULAR CARTILAGE MORPHOLOGY IN A YOUNG HEALTHY SEDENTARY RAT MODEL.

DOI: 10.3390/nu11061260 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:23:57
This study examined how vitamin D supplementation affects cartilage development in young, healthy rats during a critical growth period. Researchers divided 12 nine-week-old male rats into three groups receiving different vitamin D levels in their diet for 10 weeks: normal (1400 IU/kg), supplemented (4000 IU/kg), or restricted (0 IU/kg), then analyzed cartilage thickness, structure, and protein markers. Vitamin D restriction led to thinner cartilage, reduced protective proteins (collagen II, proteoglycans), and increased markers of cartilage breakdown (collagen X), while supplementation produced the opposite effects with thicker cartilage and better joint lubrication proteins. These findings suggest that vitamin D supplementation may promote healthier cartilage development in young individuals, though further research is needed to confirm clinical applications.

HYALURONAN DERIVATIVE HYMOVIS® INCREASES CARTILAGE VOLUME AND TYPE II COLLAGEN TURNOVER IN OSTEOARHRITIC KNEE: DATA FROM MOKHA STUDY.

DOI: 10.1186/s12891-019-2667-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:23:51
This pilot study aimed to identify biomarkers of treatment efficacy for Hymovis® (a hyaluronic acid derivative) to inform the design of a larger placebo-controlled trial investigating its disease-modifying effects in knee osteoarthritis. Forty-six patients with symptomatic knee OA received two treatment cycles of intra-articular Hymovis® injections six months apart, with assessments including blood biomarkers, MRI imaging, and clinical outcomes over one year. The study found significant increases in type II collagen synthesis markers (COLL2-1 and PIIANP) and decreased ratios indicating reduced cartilage breakdown, alongside increased cartilage volume and thickness in lateral knee compartments on MRI. These findings suggest Hymovis® may enhance cartilage turnover and provide structural benefits, with the treatment being well-tolerated and improving clinical symptoms and function scores.

APPLICATION OF CONFOCAL, SHG AND ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPY FOR CHARACTERIZING THE STRUCTURE OF THE MOST SUPERFICIAL LAYER OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1111/jmi.12824 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:23:44
This study aimed to characterize the structure and composition of the most superficial layer of articular cartilage, which is critical for joint function but poorly understood. The researchers physically peeled off a transparent membrane (20.0 ± 4.7 μm thick) from sheep femoral condyles and analyzed it using three advanced microscopy techniques: confocal microscopy, second harmonic generation microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. They found that this superficial layer contains chondrocytes, densely packed collagen, and elastic fibers arranged in a specific pattern—with elastic fibers most concentrated at the surface where collagen and cell densities are lowest, and a dense fibrillar network at the interface with underlying cartilage. These findings provide new insights into cartilage structure that could improve understanding of osteoarthritis progression and inform tissue engineering approaches for cartilage repair.

CANINE IL4-10 FUSION PROTEIN PROVIDES DISEASE MODIFYING ACTIVITY IN A CANINE MODEL OF OA; AN EXPLORATORY STUDY.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0219587 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:23:38
This exploratory study evaluated whether a canine IL4-10 fusion protein could serve as a disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug (DMOAD) by testing its chondroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving effects. Researchers used a canine groove model of knee osteoarthritis, injecting either the fusion protein or saline weekly for 10 weeks, then assessed joint function using force plate analysis and cartilage health through biochemical and histological methods. The study found that while human IL4-10 fusion protein caused antibody formation that blocked its effectiveness, the canine-specific version successfully reduced inflammation and increased cartilage proteoglycan synthesis in laboratory tests. In the living animal model, the canine fusion protein restored normal joint loading (indicating pain relief) and increased cartilage proteoglycan content, demonstrating promising DMOAD activity that warrants further investigation.

EFFECTS OF LOADING CONDITIONS ON ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN A METAL-ON-CARTILAGE PAIRING.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.24426 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:23:32
This study investigated how articular cartilage responds when sliding against metal implants under different loading conditions, aiming to understand potential damage mechanisms in metal-on-cartilage joint replacements. The researchers used a microtribometer to slide bovine cartilage samples against cobalt-chromium-molybdenum metal cylinders at various loads and velocities, then measured cartilage cell activity, gene expression, and metal corrosion. The results showed that high loads and velocities increased cartilage metabolic activity and caused both surface damage to cartilage and corrosion of the metal implant, while low velocities with high friction promoted harmful cartilage breakdown genes. These findings suggest that metal corrosion particles may contribute to cartilage wear in joint replacements, providing important insights for surgeons performing knee resurfacing and total knee replacement procedures.

STIFF MICELLE-CROSSLINKED HYALURONATE HYDROGELS WITH LOW SWELLING FOR POTENTIAL CARTILAGE REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1039/c9tb01155b · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:23:26
This study aimed to evaluate how micelle crosslinking and long-term swelling affect the mechanical properties of hyaluronic acid hydrogels designed for cartilage repair. The researchers tested hydrogels made from methacrylated hyaluronic acid crosslinked with Pluronic F127 diacrylate micelles, measuring their mechanical properties before and after swelling in physiological conditions, followed by implantation in rabbit cartilage defects for 8 weeks. The optimized hydrogel (15% F127DA, 1.5% hyaluronic acid) showed low swelling and maintained good mechanical properties even after hydration, though compressive strength decreased from 3.44 MPa to 0.59 MPa after swelling. In vivo testing demonstrated that these hydrogels successfully promoted cartilage regeneration in rabbit thyroid cartilage defects, suggesting they are promising scaffolds for cartilage tissue engineering applications.

CARTILAGE ENDOPLASMIC RETICULUM STRESS MAY INFLUENCE THE ONSET BUT NOT THE PROGRESSION OF EXPERIMENTAL OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1186/s13075-019-1988-6 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:23:16
This study investigated whether endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in cartilage cells influences osteoarthritis (OA) development and progression using mouse models with surgically induced OA. The researchers compared wild-type mice with genetically modified mice that had either increased ER stress capacity (C/C mice) or reduced ER stress sensing ability (ATF6α knockout mice), then assessed cartilage damage over time using tissue analysis and gene expression profiling. The key finding was that mice with enhanced ER stress management (C/C mice) showed significantly less cartilage damage at 2 weeks after surgery, suggesting that a better cellular capacity to handle ER stress can delay early OA onset. However, this protective effect disappeared over time, and mice lacking ER stress sensors showed no difference in OA severity, indicating that while ER stress management may influence early cartilage damage, it does not affect long-term disease progression once OA is established.

SYSTEMIC DRUGS WITH IMPACT ON OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1080/03602532.2019.1687511 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:23:08
This review examines systemic drugs that can influence cartilage health and osteoarthritis progression. The authors conducted a comprehensive literature review to categorize medications based on their effects on cartilage metabolism and repair. The study found that several systemic agents have demonstrated clinical benefits for cartilage health, including alendronate, glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, and certain vitamins, while others like calcitonin and risedronate showed no protective effects in clinical trials. Many promising compounds are still in preclinical stages requiring clinical validation, and importantly, some commonly used drugs like corticosteroids and fluoroquinolones may actually impair cartilage healing.

WNT/Β-CATENIN SIGNALING CONTRIBUTES TO ARTICULAR CARTILAGE HOMEOSTASIS THROUGH LUBRICIN INDUCTION IN THE SUPERFICIAL ZONE.

DOI: 10.1186/s13075-019-2041-5 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:23:02
This study investigated how WNT/β-catenin signaling regulates cartilage health in the superficial zone, the outermost layer of articular cartilage. The researchers used genetically modified mice to either delete or enhance β-catenin signaling specifically in superficial zone cells, and examined the effects on lubricin (PRG4) production and cartilage degeneration. They found that WNT/β-catenin signaling is naturally high in the superficial zone and directly controls lubricin expression - when signaling was lost, lubricin decreased and osteoarthritis accelerated, while enhanced signaling increased lubricin and protected against cartilage damage. The study also showed that mechanical loading and specific WNT proteins (WNT5A, WNT5B) can boost this protective pathway, suggesting that proper WNT/β-catenin signaling in the superficial zone is crucial for maintaining healthy joint cartilage through lubricin regulation.

KARTOGENIN ENHANCES THE THERAPEUTIC EFFECT OF BONE MARROW MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS DERIVED EXOSOMES IN CARTILAGE REPAIR.

DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2019-0208 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:22:55
This study aimed to improve the therapeutic potential of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC)-derived exosomes for cartilage repair by preconditioning the cells with kartogenin (KGN). The researchers treated BMSCs with KGN before collecting their exosomes, then tested these modified exosomes in both laboratory and animal models of cartilage damage. The results showed that exosomes from KGN-preconditioned BMSCs were more effective than standard BMSC exosomes, promoting better cartilage matrix formation and reducing tissue breakdown. This preconditioning approach offers a promising strategy to standardize and enhance the therapeutic effects of stem cell-derived exosomes for cartilage regeneration.

CARTILAGE BIOMECHANICAL RESPONSE DIFFERS UNDER PHYSIOLOGICAL BIAXIAL LOADS AND UNIAXIAL CYCLIC COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1115/1.4045661 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:22:50
This study aimed to compare cartilage biomechanical responses under physiologically relevant biaxial loading (with sliding contact) versus traditional uniaxial cyclic compression used in laboratory experiments. The researchers used finite element analysis to simulate both loading conditions and examine fluid pressure, tissue strains, and rehydration patterns in cartilage explants. The biaxial loading with sliding motion maintained constant fluid pressure and tissue strains throughout the simulation due to continuous tissue rehydration, while uniaxial compression led to rapid tissue consolidation with 19% and 26% reductions in fluid pressure and transverse strain, respectively. The findings suggest that physiological sliding contact loading should be incorporated into mechanobiological studies since it better replicates in vivo joint conditions and produces distinctly different biomechanical responses compared to conventional testing methods.

ELECTROACUPUNCTURE ALLEVIATES CARTILAGE DEGRADATION: IMPROVEMENT IN CARTILAGE BIOMECHANICS VIA PAIN RELIEF AND POTENTIATION OF MUSCLE FUNCTION IN A RABBIT MODEL OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109724 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:22:44
This study investigated whether electroacupuncture (EA) could protect knee cartilage in osteoarthritis by improving pain and muscle function in rabbits. Researchers induced knee osteoarthritis through 6 weeks of immobilization, then treated rabbits with either electroacupuncture or celecoxib (a standard anti-inflammatory drug) for 4 weeks, using multiple assessment methods including pain scoring, muscle function testing, and detailed cartilage analysis through nanoindentation and various staining techniques. The results showed that electroacupuncture effectively reduced pain scores and improved thigh muscle function (rectus femoris and biceps femoris) compared to untreated osteoarthritic animals. Most importantly, electroacupuncture slowed cartilage breakdown by improving cartilage biomechanical properties, reducing cartilage damage scores, and decreasing markers of collagen degradation, suggesting that better muscle function and pain relief led to more normal joint loading and reduced cartilage stress.

HYALURONAN SUPPRESSES ENHANCED CATHEPSIN K EXPRESSION VIA ACTIVATION OF NF-ΚB WITH MECHANICAL STRESS LOADING IN A HUMAN CHONDROCYTIC HCS-2/8 CELLS.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-57073-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:22:37
This study investigated how high molecular weight hyaluronan (HMW-HA) affects cathepsin K expression in cartilage cells under mechanical stress, which is relevant to osteoarthritis development. The researchers cultured human chondrocytes (HCS-2/8 cells) in chambers and applied cyclic tensile stress while measuring cathepsin K expression and NF-κB pathway activation. They found that mechanical stress significantly increased cathepsin K expression and NF-κB activation, but pre-treatment with HMW-HA suppressed both responses. These findings suggest that HMW-HA protects cartilage by reducing harmful enzyme production through the NF-κB pathway, providing biological evidence for why hyaluronic acid injections may be effective in treating osteoarthritis.

ENHANCED CHONDROGENIC PHENOTYPE OF PRIMARY BOVINE ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES IN FIBRIN-HYALURONAN HYDROGEL BY MULTI-AXIAL MECHANICAL LOADING AND FGF18.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.01.032 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:22:32
This study investigated whether combining mechanical loading with growth factor treatment could improve cartilage regeneration using bovine chondrocytes in a fibrin-hyaluronan hydrogel scaffold. Researchers used a joint-mimicking bioreactor to apply controlled multi-axial mechanical loading to chondrocyte-seeded hydrogels, with or without FGF-18 treatment, then analyzed cartilage formation markers including gene expression, glycosaminoglycan production, and tissue structure. The key finding was that moderate mechanical loading alone increased cartilage matrix production, but when combined with FGF-18, it significantly enhanced expression of beneficial cartilage genes (aggrecan, collagen II, COMP, lubricin) while reducing harmful enzymes (MMP-9 and MMP-13) that contribute to joint destruction. The results demonstrate a synergistic effect between mechanical forces and biochemical signals that could improve strategies for treating cartilage defects by promoting healthy hyaline cartilage formation rather than inferior fibrocartilage repair tissue.

TOPICAL APPLICATION OF WOGONIN PROVIDES A NOVEL TREATMENT OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00080 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:22:24
This study investigated whether wogonin, a natural compound from skullcap plants, could effectively treat knee osteoarthritis when applied as a topical cream. The researchers first confirmed that wogonin could penetrate skin using a laboratory diffusion system, then tested the treatment in mice with surgically-induced osteoarthritis, measuring joint activity, cartilage damage using standard scoring systems, and inflammatory protein levels in joint tissues. Mice treated with topical wogonin showed significantly increased activity levels and reduced osteoarthritis severity compared to control mice, with less cartilage damage and fewer cyst-like bone lesions. The treatment also significantly reduced key inflammatory proteins (TGF-β1, HTRA1, MMP-13, and NF-κB) associated with cartilage breakdown, suggesting that topical wogonin may offer a promising new approach for osteoarthritis therapy.

THE EFFECT OF SYNOVIAL FLUID COMPOSITION, SPEED AND LOAD ON FRICTIONAL BEHAVIOUR OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.3390/ma13061334 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:22:17
This study investigated how different factors affect friction in articular cartilage to better understand joint lubrication and cartilage degradation in joint diseases. The researchers used a pin-on-plate tribometer to test cartilage samples against glass plates under various conditions, using model synovial fluids with different compositions (proteins, hyaluronic acid, phospholipids) at concentrations mimicking healthy and osteoarthritic joints, while varying speed (5-10 mm/s) and load (5-10 N). The key findings showed that protein-only solutions had similar friction regardless of concentration, but adding hyaluronic acid and phospholipids—especially when combined with γ-globulin—significantly reduced friction, while speed had minimal impact and higher loads actually decreased friction. The results highlight the importance of interactions between different synovial fluid components in maintaining low-friction joint lubrication.

DEVELOPMENT OF AN INJECTABLE THIOLATED ICARIIN FUNCTIONALIZED COLLAGEN/HYALURONIC HYDROGEL TO PROMOTE CARTILAGE FORMATION IN VITRO AND IN VIVO.

DOI: 10.1039/c9tb00211a · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:22:10
This study aimed to develop an injectable hydrogel system that could deliver bioactive molecules to promote cartilage formation for clinical cartilage repair applications. The researchers created a novel injectable hydrogel by combining hyaluronic acid and collagen with a modified version of icariin (a bioactive compound), where icariin was chemically modified with thiol groups (ICA-SH) to improve its incorporation and reduce toxicity. The modified icariin hydrogel (HIC) demonstrated superior performance compared to standard hyaluronic acid/collagen hydrogels, enhancing chondrocyte (cartilage cell) growth, maintaining their specialized characteristics, and increasing production of cartilage matrix components. The results suggest this injectable HIC hydrogel could serve as a promising, minimally invasive treatment option for articular cartilage repair in clinical settings.

TRIBOMETER FOR MEASURING COEFFICIENTS OF FRICTION OF UNEVEN SURFACES LIKE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1063/1.5124006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:22:01
This study aimed to develop a specialized tribometer system capable of accurately measuring the low coefficients of friction (COF) of articular cartilage despite its irregular surface topography. The researchers used a pin-on-plate tribometer that allows vertical pin displacement to follow surface contours, combined with a newly developed algorithm that accounts for surface irregularities and different movement directions. Validation testing with polyoxymethylene pins against stainless steel plates at various slope angles (up to 24°) showed the system worked effectively within ±15° slope ranges, beyond which COF measurements became less reliable. Initial cartilage-on-cartilage friction tests using pig stifle joint samples produced COF values consistent with published literature, demonstrating the system's potential for studying cartilage biomechanics in more realistic conditions.

BIOTRIBOLOGY OF SYNOVIAL CARTILAGE: A NEW METHOD FOR VISUALIZATION OF LUBRICATING FILM AND SIMULTANEOUS MEASUREMENT OF THE FRICTION COEFFICIENT.

DOI: 10.3390/ma13092075 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:21:53
This study developed a new method to simultaneously visualize lubricating films and measure friction in synovial joints to better understand cartilage lubrication mechanisms. The researchers created a reciprocating tribometer combined with fluorescence microscopy and specialized software to analyze cartilage samples with model synovial fluid in real-time. The experiments revealed that albumin proteins play a significant role in lubrication, with protein clusters forming more stable lubricating layers on cartilage surfaces. The findings showed a clear relationship between decreasing protein cluster count, reduced lubrication film thickness, and changes in friction coefficient, providing new insights into how synovial joints maintain their remarkably low friction during movement.

EVALUATION OF ALGINATE MODIFICATION EFFECT ON CELL-MATRIX INTERACTION, MECHANOTRANSDUCTION AND CHONDROGENESIS OF ENCAPSULATED MSCS.

DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03216-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:21:47
This study investigated how modifying alginate hydrogels affects mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiation into cartilage-producing cells. Researchers encapsulated MSCs in alginate hydrogels modified with gelatin, collagen type I, or RGD peptides, then applied hydrostatic pressure with or without chemical growth factors over 21 days. The collagen-modified alginate showed the strongest promotion of cartilage formation, as demonstrated by enhanced staining for cartilage components and increased expression of cartilage-specific genes. Notably, mechanical loading (hydrostatic pressure) was as effective as the standard chemical stimulus (TGF-beta) in promoting cartilage development, with the best results achieved when both mechanical and chemical stimuli were combined.

BIOTRIBOLOGICAL TESTING AND ANALYSIS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE SLIDING AGAINST METAL FOR IMPLANTS.

DOI: 10.3791/61304 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:21:33
This study aimed to develop a laboratory testing protocol to investigate why cartilage degenerates when it contacts metal implants used to treat joint defects in middle-aged patients. The researchers created a tribological (friction and wear) testing system using metal implant materials sliding against bovine cartilage samples under various loads and speeds that mimic real joint conditions, followed by comprehensive analysis through histology, metabolic activity measurements, and gene expression studies. The protocol allows researchers to freely adjust loading conditions and test different lubricating solutions to better understand the mechanisms of cartilage damage. This approach can detect early changes in cartilage cell metabolism and gene activity that occur before visible tissue damage, providing insights into how metal-on-cartilage contact leads to progressive joint degeneration.

NON-INVASIVE ELECTROARTHROGRAPHY MEASURES LOAD-INDUCED CARTILAGE STREAMING POTENTIALS VIA ELECTRODES PLACED ON SKIN SURROUNDING AN ARTICULAR JOINT.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603520928583 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:21:26
This study investigated whether electroarthrography (EAG) can non-invasively detect cartilage streaming potentials through skin electrodes placed around joints during loading. The researchers used equine joints under simulated physiological loads, testing the effects of different electrolyte concentrations in synovial fluid and direct cartilage degradation with trypsin enzyme. The results showed that EAG coefficients varied inversely with ionic strength (matching known streaming potential behavior) and decreased significantly after trypsin treatment, which was confirmed to selectively degrade proteoglycans while preserving collagen structure. These findings demonstrate that EAG successfully detects cartilage-generated streaming potentials non-invasively, suggesting potential as a diagnostic tool for early cartilage degeneration.

IMMATURE BOVINE CARTILAGE WEAR BY FATIGUE FAILURE AND DELAMINATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.109852 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:21:21
This study investigated the wear mechanisms of immature bovine articular cartilage by testing 63 samples under reciprocal sliding conditions against either glass or cartilage surfaces in different lubricating fluids. The researchers found that 47 samples (75%) experienced wear damage through delamination that originated in the middle zone of the cartilage, rather than through surface abrasive wear. Importantly, this delamination occurred even when friction coefficients remained low, and damage began earlier when cartilage was tested against the stiffer glass surface compared to cartilage-on-cartilage contact. The findings suggest that subsurface fatigue failure leading to delamination may be a primary mechanism of cartilage wear, potentially explaining how human cartilage fails under normal loading conditions over many cycles.

ANISOTROPIC PROPERTIES OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN AN ACCELERATED IN VITRO WEAR TEST.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2020.103834 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:21:10
This study investigated whether articular cartilage exhibits directional differences in wear behavior relative to the orientation of collagen fibers at the joint surface. Researchers performed accelerated wear tests on bovine knee cartilage using a stainless steel plate under physiological loading conditions, comparing wear when sliding occurred parallel versus perpendicular to the surface collagen fiber direction. The key finding was that cartilage worn perpendicular to the fiber direction showed twice as much glycosaminoglycan loss and greater collagen damage compared to wear parallel to the fibers, though friction coefficients were similar in both directions. These results suggest that cartilage wear is anisotropic and that aligning the fiber direction with the predominant loading direction during osteochondral transplantation may improve graft longevity.

THE INFLUENCE OF MAXIMAL AND SUBMAXIMAL CYCLIC CONCENTRIC AND ECCENTRIC EXERCISE ON CHONDROCYTE DEATH AND SYNOVIAL FLUID PROTEINS IN THE RABBIT KNEE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2020.105095 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:21:04
This study investigated whether different types of exercise loading cause cartilage cell death and alter joint fluid composition in rabbit knees. Researchers subjected rabbits to either high-intensity, short-term eccentric contractions (5 sets of 10 maximal contractions) or low-intensity, long-term concentric exercise (30 minutes at 20% maximum force), then assessed chondrocyte viability using confocal microscopy and analyzed synovial fluid protein content. Neither exercise protocol caused increased chondrocyte death compared to unloaded control joints, suggesting cartilage cells are well-protected during mechanical loading. However, synovial fluid protein composition changed in opposite ways depending on exercise type: high-intensity exercise decreased the number of identifiable proteins while low-intensity exercise increased them, indicating that loading type influences joint biochemistry even when cell death does not occur.

BALL-BEARING-INSPIRED POLYAMPHOLYTE-MODIFIED MICROSPHERES AS BIO-LUBRICANTS ATTENUATE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1002/smll.202004519 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:20:57
This study aimed to develop novel microspheres that combine enhanced joint lubrication with drug delivery capabilities for osteoarthritis treatment. The researchers created ball-bearing-inspired microspheres using microfluidic technology to produce uniform gelatin spheres, then modified them with a polyampholyte coating (PSBMA) that forms hydration layers for superior lubrication while maintaining porous structure for drug loading. The microspheres demonstrated enhanced lubrication properties, sustained drug release, and when loaded with diclofenac sodium, successfully inhibited inflammatory cartilage degradation in cell cultures and showed therapeutic effects in animal models of osteoarthritis. This approach represents a promising dual-function treatment strategy that addresses both the mechanical lubrication deficits and inflammatory processes characteristic of osteoarthritis.

COMPRESSION BIOREACTOR-BASED MECHANICAL LOADING INDUCES MOBILIZATION OF HUMAN BONE MARROW-DERIVED MESENCHYMAL STROMAL CELLS INTO COLLAGEN SCAFFOLDS IN VITRO.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218249 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:20:51
This study investigated whether mechanical loading could mobilize human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) into different scaffold materials, as a potential mechanism to improve cartilage repair after microfracture surgery. The researchers used a compression bioreactor to apply intermittent mechanical loading (10% strain, 0.3 Hz for 24 hours) to human bone marrow MSCs cultured with either collagen-I or alginate-laminin scaffolds. Mechanical stimulation dramatically increased MSC mobilization into collagen-I scaffolds by 10-fold compared to unloaded controls (245 vs 22 viable cells/mm²), but showed no significant effect on cell migration into alginate-laminin scaffolds. These findings suggest that mechanical loading combined with collagen-based scaffolds could enhance cell recruitment for cartilage tissue engineering applications.

PAIN DURING WALKING AND ASCENDING STAIRS BEFORE HYALURONIC ACID INJECTION WAS COMMON IN PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A QUALITATIVE STUDY.

DOI: 10.3906/sag-2007-248 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:20:43
This qualitative study aimed to understand patients' experiences and decision-making processes regarding hyaluronic acid injections for knee osteoarthritis treatment. The researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 92 knee OA patients (mean age 65.5 years) using six open-ended questions about their treatment decisions, symptoms, and outcomes. The study found that before injection, most patients experienced pain during walking (72.8%) and stair climbing (70.7%), with 45.2% reporting reduced symptoms 1-4 years post-injection. Notably, patients typically decided on hyaluronic acid treatment based on physician recommendations rather than personal preference, and most did not consider diet and exercise as viable treatment options despite medical advice.

NF-ΚB-MEDIATED EFFECTS ON BEHAVIOR AND CARTILAGE PATHOLOGY IN A NON-INVASIVE LOADING MODEL OF POST-TRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2020.10.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:20:37
This study investigated how NF-κB signaling contributes to pain and cartilage damage in a mouse model of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Researchers used a non-invasive knee loading injury in genetically modified mice to track NF-κB activity through live imaging over 16 weeks, while measuring pain-related behaviors and testing the effects of blocking NF-κB with a locally injected inhibitor. The results showed that NF-κB signaling peaked 3 days after injury and was associated with long-term development of pain sensitivity and altered weight-bearing behavior. While blocking NF-κB reduced immediate cell death in cartilage and influenced early pain responses, it did not prevent long-term cartilage degeneration, suggesting that early NF-κB inhibition has limited protective effects against PTOA progression.

EFFECT OF LOADING ON THE ADHESION AND FRICTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF TOP LAYER ARTICULAR CARTILAGE NANOSCALE CONTACT: A MOLECULAR DYNAMICS STUDY.

DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.0c02283 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:20:29
This study investigated how loading affects the adhesion and friction properties of articular cartilage at the molecular level using computer simulations. The researchers used molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to model direct contact between cartilage surfaces without water lubrication, conducting pull-off and sliding tests under various loads. The simulations revealed that cartilage surfaces form strong adhesive bonds through molecular interpenetration, and that the coefficient of friction ranges from 0.20-0.75 depending on sliding direction relative to collagen fibers. Key findings showed that friction decreases with increasing load and is higher when sliding parallel to collagen fibers compared to perpendicular sliding, providing atomic-level insights into cartilage wear mechanisms that could inform joint implant design.

EVALUATION OF EARLY KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS USING BIOMECHANICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL MARKERS.

DOI: 10.1615/CritRevBiomedEng.2022043127 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:20:21
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between knee loading during walking, cartilage breakdown markers, and daily squatting exposure in people with varying levels of knee osteoarthritis. The researchers used 3D gait analysis to measure knee adduction moment (a indicator of joint loading) and analyzed biochemical markers in urine and sweat from 66 participants across four groups: non-squatters, daily living squatters, occupational squatters, and people with grade 2-3 knee osteoarthritis. The key finding was that moderate squatting (daily living activities) showed the lowest levels of cartilage-damaging enzyme activity, while heavy occupational squatting showed the highest levels, suggesting a dose-response relationship. The study concludes that combining biomechanical and biochemical markers may help identify early knee osteoarthritis, and moderate weight-bearing activities like squatting might be beneficial for joint health.

HIGH-PRECISION, GELATIN-BASED, HYBRID, BILAYER SCAFFOLDS USING MELT ELECTRO-WRITING TO REPAIR CARTILAGE INJURY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2020.12.018 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:20:14
This study aimed to develop a novel bilayer scaffold for cartilage repair using melt electro-writing (MEW) technology combined with natural materials that are typically difficult to print. The researchers created a printable ink by mixing gelatin with poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) and incorporated TGF-β1 growth factor and hydroxyapatite into the scaffold, then tested it with microfracture surgery to recruit bone marrow stem cells. The MEW approach successfully produced high-precision, porous scaffolds with good printability and structural integrity. The bioactive scaffold demonstrated the ability to attract and promote differentiation of autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, offering a promising tissue engineering solution for cartilage injury repair.

CARTILAGE REHYDRATION: THE SLIDING-INDUCED HYDRODYNAMIC TRIGGERING MECHANISM.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.02.040 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:20:09
This study aimed to understand the mechanism by which joint movement helps cartilage recover fluid after being compressed under static loading. The researchers developed a numerical model that simulates the complex fluid flow patterns occurring at multiple scales within the porous cartilage structure during sliding motion. They discovered that cartilage rehydration is driven by hydrodynamic forces, specifically a "wedge effect" that occurs at the leading edge of the contact area during sliding, which creates pressure gradients that draw fluid back into the tissue. The model's predictions matched experimental measurements of rehydration rates, confirming that joint motion is essential for maintaining cartilage health and providing insights for designing better cartilage replacement materials.

MECHANISMS LINKING MITOCHONDRIAL MECHANOTRANSDUCTION AND CHONDROCYTE BIOLOGY IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101315 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:20:02
This review examines how mechanical forces affect mitochondrial function in cartilage cells (chondrocytes) and its role in osteoarthritis development. The authors synthesized current literature on mechanotransduction pathways, focusing on how chondrocytes sense mechanical signals and how these signals alter mitochondrial function. The key finding is that mitochondria serve as critical mechanotransducers that convert external mechanical forces into cellular responses, with dysfunction in this process contributing to osteoarthritis pathogenesis. The authors propose that AMPK, a key energy-regulating protein, may be the critical link between mechanical loading, mitochondrial health, and cellular responses in cartilage.

AN EXPLORATORY STUDY TO INVESTIGATE THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN AGE, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, FEMORAL TROCHLEAR CARTILAGE THICKNESS AND BIOMARKERS OF TISSUE METABOLISM IN ADULT MALES.

DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04655-y · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:19:57
This exploratory study examined how age and physical activity relate to knee cartilage thickness and metabolic biomarkers in 81 adult males aged 18-70 years. The researchers measured femoral trochlear cartilage thickness using ultrasound imaging, analyzed blood levels of cartilage biomarkers (COMP, hyaluronan, and lubricin) via ELISA, and assessed physical activity through questionnaires. Key findings showed that older age was associated with thinner lateral cartilage and higher COMP levels (indicating increased cartilage breakdown), while greater physical activity correlated with thicker lateral cartilage and higher biomarker levels. However, age and physical activity together explained only a small portion of the variation in cartilage thickness and biomarker concentrations, suggesting other factors play important roles in cartilage health.

FROM PATHOGENESIS TO THERAPY IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: BENCH-TO-BEDSIDE.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052697 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:19:51
This review examines the current understanding of knee osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis and evaluates the translation of research findings into clinical treatments. The authors conducted a comprehensive analysis of the multifactorial mechanisms underlying knee OA, examining how the disease affects multiple joint tissues (cartilage, synovium, bone, ligaments, and muscles) beyond the traditional view of it being simply an aging-related, mechanical condition. The review reveals that while research has identified numerous contributing factors and molecular pathways in OA development, most clinical studies focus primarily on symptom relief (pain and function) rather than disease modification. The authors conclude there is a critical need for more research into OA pathogenesis and rigorous testing of disease-modifying drugs to develop truly effective treatment strategies.

DECURSIN ALLEVIATES THE AGGRAVATION OF OSTEOARTHRITIS VIA INHIBITING PI3K-AKT AND NF-KB SIGNAL PATHWAY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107657 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:19:36
This study investigated whether decursin (DE), a natural compound from Angelica gigas Nakai, could serve as a potential treatment for osteoarthritis by targeting inflammatory pathways. The researchers used in vitro experiments with IL-1β-stimulated chondrocytes treated with different concentrations of DE (1-10 μM), molecular docking analysis, and in vivo studies using a surgically-induced mouse osteoarthritis model. The results showed that DE treatment dose-dependently reduced key inflammatory markers (PGE2, IL-6, TNF-α, COX-2, NO, iNOS) and matrix-degrading enzymes (ADAMTS, MMPs) in cultured cartilage cells, while also improving cartilage destruction and reducing serum inflammatory factors in the mouse model. The protective effects appear to work through inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway, suggesting that decursin may be a promising therapeutic candidate for osteoarthritis treatment.

A MOVING CONTACT OF ARTICULATION ENHANCES THE BIOSYNTHETIC AND FUNCTIONAL RESPONSES OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.biotri.2021.100180 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:19:29
This study investigated how different types of mechanical loading affect cartilage health by comparing moving contact (MC) versus stationary contact (SC) articulation patterns. Researchers used bovine cartilage explants in a biotribometer device to apply compression and shear forces, simulating either migratory contact areas (as occurs in normal joint movement) or fixed contact areas, with free-swelling samples as controls. The moving contact group showed significantly better outcomes, including preserved cartilage surface integrity without fibrillation, increased chondrocyte viability, enhanced lubricin production, and lower friction coefficients compared to the stationary contact group. These findings demonstrate that migratory contact patterns during joint loading are crucial for maintaining cartilage structure, function, and cellular activity, supporting the importance of natural joint movement for cartilage health.

SPRINT EXERCISE OF JUVENILE ANIMALS DOES NOT IMPACT CARTILAGE GLYCOSAMINOGLYCAN OR SYNOVIAL FLUID NEOPEPTIDE COLLAGENASE CLEAVAGE OF TYPE I AND II COLLAGEN CONTENT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103405 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:19:23
This study investigated whether sprint exercise during growth affects joint health in young animals, using 24 Holstein bull calves as a model for young horses. The researchers assigned calves to different sprint frequencies (0, 1, 3, or 5 days per week) for 6 weeks, with each sprint involving a 71-meter run down a concrete aisle, then measured joint health markers including synovial fluid collagen breakdown products (C1,2C) and cartilage glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content. The results showed no significant differences in collagen breakdown or cartilage GAG content between sprint groups, though GAG levels varied between different carpal bones. The authors conclude that short sprint exercise during growth does not harm joint health and should be allowed given the known benefits to bone development.

NA

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.634327 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:19:17
This study aimed to develop a comprehensive methodology for investigating how cyclic joint loading affects cartilage metabolism in osteoarthritis (OA), with the goal of identifying mechanisms that could prevent or slow OA progression. The researchers created an integrated protocol that combines biomechanical data from gait analysis, medical imaging, and molecular analysis of human knee cartilage explants with varying degrees of degeneration subjected to realistic loading patterns mimicking daily activities. The methodology allows for analysis of key molecules involved in cartilage homeostasis, mechanotransduction, inflammation, pain, and wound healing in both chondrocytes and culture media. This integrated approach is expected to provide new insights into the beneficial effects of physiological loading and support the development of non-pharmacological treatments for OA.

A STRETCHABLE SCAFFOLD WITH ELECTROCHEMICAL SENSING FOR 3D CULTURE, MECHANICAL LOADING, AND REAL-TIME MONITORING OF CELLS.

DOI: 10.1002/advs.202003738 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:19:12
This study aimed to develop a novel platform that combines 3D cell culture, mechanical loading, and real-time monitoring to better understand how cells respond to mechanical forces. The researchers created a stretchable scaffold using elastic polymer material (PDMS) embedded with gold nanotubes and biomimetic peptides, allowing them to grow cartilage cells (chondrocytes) in 3D while simultaneously applying mechanical stretch and monitoring cellular responses through electrochemical sensors. The platform successfully demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, stretchability, and stable sensing performance for real-time detection of cell signaling molecules. The key finding revealed that mechanical loading rapidly activates nitric oxide signaling in chondrocytes within seconds, uncovering a previously unclear mechanotransduction pathway that could advance our understanding of how cartilage cells respond to mechanical forces.

ADIPOSE-DERIVED MESENCHYMAL STROMAL CELLS TREATED WITH INTERLEUKIN 1 BETA PRODUCED CHONDRO-PROTECTIVE VESICLES ABLE TO FAST PENETRATE IN CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.3390/cells10051180 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:19:00
This study investigated whether extracellular vesicles (EVs) from fat-derived stem cells treated with an inflammatory protein (IL-1β) could protect cartilage and penetrate cartilage tissue effectively. Researchers isolated stem cells from fat tissue, treated them with IL-1β, collected the EVs they released, analyzed their microRNA content using high-throughput sequencing, and tracked fluorescently-labeled EVs penetrating into osteoarthritic cartilage samples using advanced microscopy techniques. The IL-1β treatment caused significant changes in 65 different microRNAs within the EVs, with bioinformatics analysis showing these microRNAs target key pathways involved in cartilage health, inflammation, and tissue repair including Wnt, Notch, TGFβ, and Hedgehog signaling. The EVs successfully penetrated deep into cartilage tissue and reached maximum distribution within 16 hours, suggesting they could serve as an effective delivery system for cartilage-protective therapies in osteoarthritis treatment.

ROLE OF CILIARY PROTEIN INTRAFLAGELLAR TRANSPORT PROTEIN 88 IN THE REGULATION OF CARTILAGE THICKNESS AND OSTEOARTHRITIS DEVELOPMENT IN MICE.

DOI: 10.1002/art.41894 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:18:53
This study investigated how the ciliary protein IFT88 affects cartilage health and osteoarthritis development using mice with cartilage-specific deletion of the IFT88 gene. The researchers measured cartilage thickness and damage scores over time, induced osteoarthritis surgically, analyzed gene expression patterns, and tested the effects of wheel exercise. Key findings showed that IFT88 deletion led to progressive cartilage thinning (median thickness reduced from 104 μm in controls to 89 μm in knockout mice at 34 weeks) and increased osteoarthritis severity after surgical induction. The study revealed that IFT88 protects cartilage by regulating hedgehog signaling during normal joint loading, and importantly, wheel exercise could restore both cartilage thickness and normal signaling in IFT88-deficient mice.

EFFECTS OF IN VITRO LOW OXYGEN TENSION PRECONDITIONING OF BUCCAL FAT PAD STEM CELLS ON IN VIVO ARTICULAR CARTILAGE TISSUE REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119728 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:18:47
This study investigated whether preconditioning buccal fat pad stem cells (BFPSCs) under low oxygen conditions could improve cartilage repair when combined with a bilayer chitosan scaffold. The researchers cultured human BFPSCs on chitosan scaffolds under either normal or low oxygen conditions, then implanted the cell-scaffold constructs into knee cartilage defects in rabbits for 12 weeks before analyzing the repair tissue. The results showed that stem cells preconditioned under low oxygen (hypoxic) conditions produced better cartilage formation and improved integration with the underlying bone compared to cells grown under normal oxygen levels. This approach demonstrates that hypoxic preconditioning of stem cells could enhance the effectiveness of cell-based therapies for cartilage repair.

SQUEEZE-FILM PROPERTIES OF SYNOVIAL FLUID AND HYALURONATE-BASED VISCOSUPPLEMENTS.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-021-01485-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:18:39
This study aimed to evaluate the squeeze-film properties of synovial fluid and hyaluronate-based viscosupplements using testing methods that better mimic joint loading conditions. The researchers used squeeze-film tests (rather than traditional viscometry) to examine normal bovine synovial fluid and various HA solutions with different concentrations and molecular weights (500-1000 kDa), measuring fluid thickness, viscosity, and pressure relationships under compression. The main findings showed that synovial fluid and HA-based viscosupplements had similar rheological responses under squeeze-film conditions, with synovial fluid maintaining only slightly greater minimum film thickness. Interestingly, thicker initial HA solution layers resulted in greater minimum film thickness due to faster gel formation at lower strain levels, and neither HA concentration nor molecular weight significantly affected the squeeze-film performance.

CHONDROPROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF A HISTONE DEACETYLASE INHIBITOR, PANOBINOSTAT, ON PAIN BEHAVIOR AND CARTILAGE DEGRADATION IN ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT TRANSECTION-INDUCED EXPERIMENTAL OSTEOARTHRITIC RATS.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147290 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:18:33
This study investigated whether panobinostat, a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, could protect cartilage and reduce pain in osteoarthritis. Researchers used rats with surgically-induced knee osteoarthritis and administered panobinostat injections directly into the joint weekly for 12 weeks. The treatment significantly reduced pain behaviors and prevented cartilage breakdown, as confirmed by microscopic analysis and CT imaging. Panobinostat worked by modifying the activity of specific HDACs and related proteins involved in cartilage destruction, suggesting it could be a promising new treatment for osteoarthritis.

ATTACHMENT OF CARTILAGE WEAR PARTICLES TO THE SYNOVIUM NEGATIVELY IMPACTS FRICTION PROPERTIES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110668 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:18:27
This study investigated how cartilage wear particles that accumulate on the synovial membrane during osteoarthritis affect the normally low-friction properties of synovial tissue. The researchers used a custom loading device to measure friction coefficients of bovine synovium samples, both with and without attached cartilage wear particles, when sliding against various surfaces including glass, cartilage, and synovium itself. The key finding was that cartilage wear particles directly attached to synovium explants in culture and significantly increased friction coefficients when tested in dilute synovial fluid conditions that mimic osteoarthritis. These results suggest that wear particle accumulation creates a harmful cycle in osteoarthritis by impairing the synovium's natural lubricating function, potentially accelerating joint degradation and altering mechanical signals to cells within the tissue.

SULFORAPHANE-LOADED HYALURONIC ACID-POLOXAMER HYBRID HYDROGEL ENHANCES CARTILAGE PROTECTION IN OSTEOARTHRITIS MODELS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2021.112345 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:18:17
This study aimed to develop and evaluate a hybrid hydrogel delivery system combining poloxamers and hyaluronic acid to deliver sulforaphane (SFN) directly into joints for osteoarthritis treatment. The researchers created hydrogel formulations with viscoelastic properties and tested their drug loading capacity, release profiles, biocompatibility using cell cultures, and therapeutic effects on cartilage-related markers. The hybrid hydrogels successfully incorporated SFN in a concentration-dependent manner and showed controlled drug release through both diffusion and polymer chain relaxation mechanisms. Key findings demonstrated that the formulations were non-toxic to bone and cartilage cells, reduced harmful inflammatory signals (NF-κB and COX-2), increased beneficial type II collagen production, and prevented cartilage breakdown, indicating strong potential as an injectable treatment for osteoarthritis.

IN SITU BIOMIMETIC LYOTROPIC LIQUID CRYSTAL GEL FOR FULL-THICKNESS CARTILAGE DEFECT REGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.08.062 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:18:10
This study aimed to develop an injectable biomimetic scaffold for treating full-thickness cartilage defects that could provide mechanical support while delivering therapeutic agents for long-term cartilage regeneration. The researchers created an in situ self-assembling gel using glyceryl monooleate and hyaluronic acid composite lyotropic liquid crystal (HLC) loaded with kartogenin, and evaluated its mechanical properties, drug release profile, and regenerative effects using MRI, micro-CT, and histological analysis. The HLC gel demonstrated superior mechanical strength, elasticity, and lubrication compared to standard formulations, while successfully extending drug release and retention in joints for over 4 weeks. The treatment effectively promoted cartilage regeneration and protected subchondral bone, with imaging and tissue analysis showing restoration of damaged bone tissue to normal characteristics.

NA

DOI: 10.1039/d1bm00727k · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:18:04
This study aimed to develop a dual-purpose drug delivery system for osteoarthritis treatment that combines anti-inflammatory action with cartilage protection. The researchers created a lyotropic liquid crystal (LLC) gel system loaded with hyaluronic acid and celecoxib (HLC gel), which they tested using rheological analysis and evaluated in osteoarthritis-induced rats. The HLC gel demonstrated superior performance by reducing inflammation while providing significant mechanical protection to cartilage, including shock absorption and stress reduction of approximately 50% due to its cubic lattice structure. The treatment showed the best results for reducing inflammation and preventing cartilage degeneration compared to other formulations, while also proving to be biodegradable and biocompatible for intra-articular use.

INTRA-ARTICULAR ADENO-ASSOCIATED VIRUS-MEDIATED PROTEOGLYCAN 4 GENE THERAPY FOR PREVENTING POSTTRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1089/hum.2021.177 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:17:58
This study aimed to develop and test an adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy that delivers the PRG4 gene to restore lubricin protein in injured joints and prevent post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The researchers used AAV vectors to deliver a modified PRG4 gene (tagged with green fluorescent protein for tracking) via intra-articular injection, testing the approach in mouse meniscus injury models and rabbit ACL transection models. The gene therapy successfully produced lubricin with normal friction-reducing and cartilage-protective properties, and significantly enhanced lubricin expression while protecting cartilage from degeneration in the rabbit model. However, the protective effects were only observed when treatment was given immediately after injury, with efficacy lost when delayed by 2 weeks, indicating that early intervention is critical for success.

EVALUATION OF THE INFLUENCE OF PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP), PLATELET LYSATE (PL) AND MECHANICAL LOADING ON CHONDROGENESIS IN VITRO.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99614-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:17:47
This study investigated whether platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet lysate (PL) can enhance cartilage formation when combined with mechanical loading in a laboratory model of autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI). Researchers cultured human cartilage cells in scaffolds with different treatments (control fibrin, PRP-gel, or fibrin with PL) and exposed them to either static conditions or multi-directional mechanical forces using a specialized bioreactor for 2 weeks. The combination of mechanical loading with either PRP or PL significantly improved cartilage-specific gene expression and protein production compared to static conditions alone, with PL showing the highest levels of active TGF-β1, a key growth factor for cartilage development. The results suggest that combining PRP or PL supplementation with mechanical loading creates a synergistic effect that enhances cartilage regeneration and reduces inflammation, offering a promising approach for improving ACI outcomes.

INTEGRINS, CADHERINS AND CHANNELS IN CARTILAGE MECHANOTRANSDUCTION: PERSPECTIVES FOR FUTURE REGENERATION STRATEGIES.

DOI: 10.1017/erm.2021.16 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:17:40
This review examines how mechanical forces are converted into cellular signals in cartilage cells (mechanotransduction) to inform future osteoarthritis treatments and cartilage regeneration strategies. The authors analyzed the current literature on three key mechanosensory systems: integrins (cell-matrix adhesion proteins), cadherins (cell-cell adhesion proteins), and ion channels that detect and respond to mechanical stimuli in chondrocytes. The review identifies these mechanotransduction pathways as critical regulators of chondrocyte behavior and cartilage health, with integrins, cadherins, and mechanosensitive ion channels serving as key molecular sensors that translate physical forces into biochemical responses. The findings suggest that targeting these specific mechanotransduction mechanisms could lead to new therapeutic approaches for controlling chondrocyte function and developing effective cartilage regeneration treatments for osteoarthritis.

SUPRAMOLECULAR HYDROGEL-INFILTRATED CERAMICS COMPOSITE COATING WITH COMBINED ANTIBACTERIAL AND SELF-LUBRICATING PERFORMANCE.

DOI: 10.1039/d1tb01830b · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:17:31
This study aimed to develop a novel composite coating that mimics articular cartilage's structure and lubrication mechanism for artificial joint applications, combining antibacterial properties with self-lubrication capabilities. The researchers used a vacuum infiltration method to embed a supramolecular hydrogel containing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and α-cyclodextrins deep into porous yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) ceramic substrates. The resulting composite coating demonstrated excellent antibacterial activity, low cytotoxicity, and superior self-lubricating and wear-resistant properties under load-bearing conditions. The hard ceramic framework protected the hydrogel while preserving its responsive gel-sol transition behavior and drug-release capabilities, offering a promising approach for developing multifunctional coatings for artificial joints.

MARATHON RUNNING INCREASES SYNTHESIS AND DECREASES CATABOLISM OF JOINT CARTILAGE TYPE II COLLAGEN ACCOMPANIED BY HIGH-ENERGY DEMANDS AND AN INFLAMATORY REACTION.

DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.722718 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:17:24
This study investigated how marathon running affects cartilage metabolism by measuring blood biomarkers in 17 recreational male runners before, immediately after, and 48 hours after the 2017 Barcelona Marathon. The researchers used blood tests to measure inflammatory markers (CRP), muscle damage indicators (CK, LDH), and various cartilage-related proteins using specialized laboratory techniques.

The results showed that marathon running created significant metabolic stress, with muscle damage markers increasing 2-6 fold and inflammation peaking at 48 hours post-race. Importantly, the study found evidence of a protective cartilage response: levels of hyaluronan (a joint lubricant) increased 4-fold immediately after the race, collagen synthesis markers (PIINP) remained elevated for 48 hours, and collagen breakdown markers (C2C) actually decreased post-race.

These findings suggest that rather than damaging joint cartilage, marathon running may actually stimulate protective and repair mechanisms in cartilage, with increased synthesis and decreased breakdown of type II collagen occurring alongside the expected inflammatory response.

[EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF MAGNET THERAPY USING PORTABLE DEVICE FOR KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS. 55-WEEK DOUBLE-BLIND STUDY RESULTS].

DOI: 10.17116/kurort20219805153 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:17:16
This 55-week double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of a portable magnetic therapy device (ALMAG+) in 77 patients with knee osteoarthritis stages I-III. Patients underwent three courses of 18 daily home-based magnetic therapy sessions while maintaining stable drug therapy, with outcomes measured using pain scales, WOMAC scores, and ultrasound assessment of cartilage thickness. The active treatment group showed significantly greater improvements in resting pain and overall WOMAC scores at weeks 21 and 55 compared to placebo, and importantly, cartilage thickness was preserved in the treatment group while it decreased in the placebo group. The study found no adverse events related to the magnetic therapy device, suggesting that portable magnetic therapy may provide analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and structure-modifying benefits for knee osteoarthritis patients.

NA

DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.1c01063 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:17:09
This study aimed to develop mechanically robust hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels for cartilage tissue engineering by incorporating cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) to overcome the poor mechanical properties of traditional HA-based materials. The researchers created methacrylate-functionalized CNFs that could photo-crosslink with methacrylated HA to form nanocomposite hydrogels, then tested their mechanical properties and biological performance both in cell culture and in a rat cartilage defect model. The resulting HA/CNF hydrogels demonstrated significantly improved mechanical strength (compressive modulus of 0.46 MPa and compressive strength of 0.198 MPa) with good recovery properties, while maintaining biocompatibility and supporting stem cell growth and cartilage formation. The nanocomposite hydrogels successfully promoted cartilage repair in full-thickness defects in rats, suggesting they could serve as effective scaffolds for cartilage tissue engineering applications.

COMPARATIVE TRIBOLOGY II-MEASURABLE BIPHASIC TISSUE PROPERTIES HAVE PREDICTABLE IMPACTS ON CARTILAGE REHYDRATION AND LUBRICITY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.10.049 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:17:03
This study investigated how measurable cartilage tissue properties influence the tissue's ability to recover fluid and maintain lubrication during sliding motion. The researchers used tribological testing with a convergent stationary contact area configuration to examine cartilage from five mammalian species, measuring how sliding speed affects fluid recovery and correlating this with tissue geometry and biphasic properties (tensile/compressive moduli and permeability). The key finding was that tissue properties significantly influence cartilage fluid recovery and lubrication at slow sliding speeds, but have minimal impact at high sliding speeds where rehydration appears largely independent of permeability and stiffness. These results suggest that easily measurable tissue characteristics can predict cartilage function and may inform better prevention and rehabilitation strategies for joint conditions like osteoarthritis.

FABRICATION OF MSC-LADEN COMPOSITES OF HYALURONIC ACID HYDROGELS REINFORCED WITH MEW SCAFFOLDS FOR CARTILAGE REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ac3acb · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:16:57
This study aimed to develop mechanically robust, cell-laden implants for cartilage repair by combining soft hyaluronic acid hydrogels with reinforcing fiber scaffolds. The researchers encapsulated mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in norbornene-modified hyaluronic acid (NorHA) hydrogels of varying stiffness and reinforced the softer hydrogels with polycaprolactone microfibers created using melt-electrowriting (MEW) technology. The key findings showed that soft hydrogels (~2 kPa) promoted superior cartilage formation compared to stiffer versions, but reinforcing these soft hydrogels with MEW fiber meshes increased their mechanical strength by 50-fold while preserving the cells' ability to form cartilage tissue. After 56 days of culture, these composite implants achieved mechanical properties suitable for joint loading (~350 kPa) and demonstrated enhanced integration with native tissue when pre-cultured with cells before implantation.

EFFECTS OF SOLVENT OSMOLARITY AND VISCOSITY ON CARTILAGE ENERGY DISSIPATION UNDER HIGH-FREQUENCY LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2021.105014 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:16:49
This study investigated how the chemical environment affects cartilage's ability to absorb energy during mechanical loading by testing cartilage samples in solutions with different salt concentrations (osmolarity) and thickness (viscosity). The researchers measured the mechanical properties of cartilage under both low-frequency (1 Hz) and high-frequency (75-300 Hz) compression while varying the strain levels applied to the tissue. The key finding was that both higher osmolarity and higher viscosity solutions independently increased energy dissipation while decreasing the stiffness of cartilage across all tested frequencies. These results demonstrate that the fluid within cartilage plays a crucial role in the tissue's shock-absorbing properties, with implications for understanding how changes in joint fluid composition might influence cartilage damage and degeneration.

MECHANICAL CUES: BIDIRECTIONAL RECIPROCITY IN THE EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX DRIVES MECHANO-SIGNALLING IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413595 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:16:42
This review examines how the extracellular matrix (ECM) and pericellular matrix (PCM) in articular cartilage create a two-way communication system that controls cellular responses to mechanical forces. The authors synthesized findings from in vivo and in vitro studies to understand how different types and magnitudes of loading affect cartilage tissue. Key findings show that normal physiological loading maintains healthy cartilage by balancing tissue building and breakdown activities, while excessive or abnormal loading disrupts this balance and can lead to cartilage degradation and osteoarthritis. The study highlights that matrix breakdown products can act as signaling molecules that either promote or reduce inflammation, demonstrating how mechanical stress creates a cascade of molecular events that ultimately determine cartilage health or disease.

MENISCUS INJURY AND ITS SURGICAL TREATMENT DOES NOT INCREASE INITIAL WHOLE KNEE JOINT FRICTION.

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.779946 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:16:33
This study investigated how meniscus injuries affect friction within the knee joint, which may contribute to post-traumatic osteoarthritis development. The researchers used a pendulum testing device to measure whole joint friction in six sheep knees under three conditions: intact meniscus, posterior root tear, and complete meniscus removal, testing under both low-load swing phase (250 N) and high-load stance phase (1000 N) conditions. Surprisingly, meniscus injury and surgical removal did not increase knee joint friction initially - in fact, complete meniscus removal actually reduced friction during simulated swing phase conditions compared to the intact state. The findings suggest that increased joint friction may not be the immediate mechanism by which meniscus injuries lead to cartilage degeneration and osteoarthritis.

THERAPEUTIC EXERCISE AND CONSERVATIVE INJECTION TREATMENT FOR EARLY KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS IN ATHLETES: A SCOPING REVIEW.

DOI: 10.3390/medicina58010069 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:16:27
This scoping review examined conservative treatment options for early knee osteoarthritis (KOA) in athletes, focusing on therapeutic exercise and injection therapies to guide clinical practice. The authors searched MEDLINE and PEDro databases for studies published in the past 20 years, ultimately including four studies that met their criteria for clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, and longitudinal studies in athletic populations. The findings showed that therapeutic exercise provides benefits for preventing cartilage degeneration, reducing pain, and improving physical function, while injection therapies (hyaluronic acid viscosupplementation and platelet-rich plasma) demonstrated medium to long-term improvements in joint pain and function lasting up to 12 months. The authors conclude that a multimodal approach combining therapeutic exercise with moderate aerobic activity should be used for KOA prevention, with minimally invasive injection therapy added for symptomatic cases to enhance motor function and reduce symptoms.

CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING APPROACHES NEED TO ASSESS FIBROCARTILAGE WHEN HYDROGEL CONSTRUCTS ARE MECHANICALLY LOADED.

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.787538 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:16:21
This review examines how mechanical loading affects cartilage type formation in tissue engineering applications using hydrogel constructs containing chondrocytes. The authors analyzed studies focusing on compression loading and implantation experiments, specifically measuring the ratio of collagen type I (COL1) to collagen type II (COL2) expression, along with relevant mechanotransduction pathways. The key finding is that mechanical stimulation can shift the COL1/COL2 ratio too high, leading to undesired fibrocartilage formation instead of the intended hyaline cartilage in engineered constructs. The authors conclude that cartilage tissue engineering studies must systematically assess whether the resulting tissue is fibrocartilage or hyaline cartilage, and highlight emerging approaches like load-shielding and synchrotron radiation imaging for future applications.

EFFECTS OF MECHANICAL STIMULATION ON METABOLOMIC PROFILES OF SW1353 CHONDROCYTES: SHEAR AND COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1242/bio.058895 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:16:15
This study investigated how mechanical forces affect the metabolic responses of SW1353 chondrocytes (cartilage cells) to better understand cartilage mechanotransduction. The researchers exposed these cells to two types of cyclical mechanical stimulation—shear and compression—for 15 and 30 minutes, then analyzed the resulting metabolic changes using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The analysis identified 1457 metabolite features and revealed that mechanical stimulation significantly altered several key biological pathways, including inflammatory responses, lipid metabolism, energy production, and amino acid synthesis. These findings provide new insights into how cartilage cells respond metabolically to different types and durations of mechanical loading, which could inform approaches to maintaining cartilage health.

NA

DOI: 10.3390/cells11030337 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:16:10
This study aimed to evaluate adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) spheroids as a potential treatment for osteoarthritis by characterizing their properties and testing their response to synovial fluid from OA patients. The researchers used a novel rotating tube device called SpheRing to form human ADSC spheroids and analyzed their gene expression using DNA microarray and RT-PCR, while also measuring cytokine production and testing the effects of OA patient synovial fluid on both traditional 2D-cultured ADSCs and spheroids. The spheroids showed enhanced expression of genes related to blood vessel formation (COL15A1, ANGPTL2) and tissue repair (TNC), along with increased production of important cytokines like IL-6 and IL-10 that could promote healing and reduce inflammation. However, when exposed to synovial fluid from OA patients, both the spheroids and regular ADSCs experienced cell death, suggesting that while ADSC spheroids show promise for OA treatment, researchers need to carefully consider how to deliver them and protect them from the harmful effects of diseased joint fluid.

EXOSOMES DERIVED FROM HYPOXIA PRECONDITIONED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS LADEN IN A SILK HYDROGEL PROMOTE CARTILAGE REGENERATION VIA THE MIR-205-5P/PTEN/AKT PATHWAY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.02.026 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:16:02
This study investigated whether exosomes from bone marrow stem cells grown under low-oxygen conditions could enhance cartilage repair when delivered via an injectable hydrogel. The researchers compared exosomes from stem cells cultured under hypoxic (1-5% oxygen) versus normal (21% oxygen) conditions, testing their effects on cartilage cells in laboratory studies and in animal models of cartilage defects. They found that hypoxia-conditioned exosomes significantly improved cartilage cell growth, movement, and tissue-building functions while reducing inflammation through a specific molecular pathway (miR-205-5p/PTEN/AKT). When these enhanced exosomes were combined with cartilage cells in an injectable silk-based hydrogel and tested in animals, they effectively promoted cartilage regeneration in damaged joints.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN HYALURONIC ACID-BASED HYDROGELS FOR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING APPLICATIONS.

DOI: 10.3390/polym14040839 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:15:56
This review examines recent advances in hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogels for cartilage tissue engineering as alternatives to current surgical treatments like autologous chondrocyte implantation, which have poor patient compliance. The authors conducted a comprehensive literature review focusing on different types of HA-based hydrogels, including in situ forming hydrogels, cryogels, microgels, and 3D-bioprinted constructs, analyzing their preclinical and clinical performance data. The review highlights that HA-based hydrogels show promise for cartilage repair because HA is naturally present in cartilage, can be easily modified, and promotes chondrocyte growth and stem cell differentiation into cartilage cells. These biomaterials offer potential advantages over traditional surgical approaches by better mimicking the native cartilage environment and supporting tissue regeneration.

ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN SERUM BIOMARKERS OF CARTILAGE METABOLISM AND SERUM HYALURONIC ACID, WITH RISK FACTORS, PAIN CATEGORIES, AND DISEASE SEVERITY IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A PILOT STUDY.

DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05133-y · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:15:50
This pilot study investigated whether three serum biomarkers—cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (sCOMP), procollagen type II C-terminal propeptide (sPIICP), and hyaluronic acid (sHA)—could serve as indicators of knee osteoarthritis severity and associated risk factors. The researchers analyzed blood samples from 174 patients with early or late knee OA and 38 healthy overweight controls, measuring biomarker levels using ELISA and correlating them with radiographic severity (Kellgren-Lawrence grading), pain levels, and patient characteristics including age, gender, and obesity.

The study found that sPIICP levels were significantly decreased in patients with late-stage knee OA and showed the strongest correlations with disease severity, obesity, and knee pain compared to the other biomarkers. ROC analysis demonstrated that sPIICP had excellent diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.980), suggesting it could effectively distinguish between different stages of knee OA.

These findings indicate that sPIICP may be a promising serum biomarker for monitoring knee OA progression, though the authors emphasize that larger studies are needed to confirm its clinical utility.

TOWARD DEVELOPMENT OF A DIABETIC SYNOVIUM CULTURE MODEL.

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.825046 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:15:43
This study aimed to develop a laboratory model to understand how diabetes affects joint tissue by culturing healthy synovium (joint lining tissue) under diabetic conditions with high glucose levels. The researchers exposed synovial tissue to either normal (euglycemic) or high (hyperglycemic) glucose concentrations with and without insulin, then measured tissue composition, cellular responses to mechanical stress, and various molecular markers related to insulin signaling and glucose metabolism.

The key findings showed that high glucose conditions decreased important joint tissue components (collagen and glycosaminoglycans) and reduced the cells' ability to sense mechanical forces, while insulin treatment helped restore these properties. The study also found that high glucose reduced primary cilia (cellular structures important for sensing mechanical stress) and decreased AKT signaling, suggesting potential mechanisms linking diabetes, reduced joint tissue quality, and osteoarthritis development.

METABOLOMIC PROFILING AND MECHANOTRANSDUCTION OF SINGLE CHONDROCYTES ENCAPSULATED IN ALGINATE MICROGELS.

DOI: 10.3390/cells11050900 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:15:35
This study aimed to understand how mechanical loading affects individual chondrocytes by creating a more realistic laboratory model that includes the protective pericellular matrix (PCM) found around cartilage cells. The researchers used advanced microfluidics technology to encapsulate single chondrocytes in tiny alginate gel spheres, allowed them to form their own PCM over 10 days, then subjected them to mechanical compression using a custom bioreactor while analyzing their metabolic responses. The compressed single cells showed distinct metabolic profiles compared to uncompressed cells and cells grown in traditional flat culture dishes, demonstrating that mechanical forces significantly alter cellular behavior. This single-cell approach provides a new tool for studying cartilage cell biology and developing treatments for conditions like osteoarthritis where the PCM becomes damaged.

IMPROVING THE SYMPTOMS OF POST-TRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS BY Α2-MACROGLOBULIN-RICH SERUM.

DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2022.2051499 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:15:29
This study aimed to develop a cost-effective preparation of α2-macroglobulin (A2M) to treat post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA), as purified A2M is expensive despite showing therapeutic promise. The researchers used rat models with anterior cruciate ligament transection to induce PTOA, measured A2M levels in synovial fluid and serum, and prepared α2-macroglobulin-rich serum (A2MRS) using ultra-filtered centrifugation before testing its effects through various imaging and histological methods. They found that A2M levels increased in synovial fluid but decreased in serum following joint injury, and their A2MRS preparation contained significantly higher A2M concentrations and bioactivity than regular serum. Treatment with A2MRS effectively protected against PTOA by reducing harmful markers (cartilage ossification, type 10 collagen, MMP-13) while increasing beneficial components (type 2 collagen, aggrecan, chondrocyte numbers), suggesting this preparation could be a practical therapeutic approach for PTOA.

MATERIAL-ASSISTED STRATEGIES FOR OSTEOCHONDRAL DEFECT REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1002/advs.202200050 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:15:23
This systematic review aimed to analyze material-assisted strategies for repairing osteochondral defects, which are difficult to heal naturally and can lead to osteoarthritis. The authors conducted a comprehensive analysis of recent literature on tissue engineering approaches that combine biomaterials with or without cells and biological molecules, while also examining current methods for evaluating osteochondral regeneration. The review found that despite two decades of research into various tissue engineering strategies, there has been limited successful translation to clinical practice. The authors identified major challenges in the field and highlighted emerging key elements that may improve future treatment outcomes for osteochondral defect repair.

EXPRESSION OF MATRIX METALLOPROTEIN 13 IN INJURY MODEL OF ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTE IN RABBITS AND ANALYSIS OF NANO-DRUG-LOADING SYSTEM.

DOI: 10.1166/jbn.2022.3283 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:15:17
This study investigated whether a camptothecin-loaded nanoparticle drug delivery system (CPT-PEG-PCL) could promote cartilage repair and reduce harmful MMP13 expression in injured rabbit cartilage cells. The researchers created nanoparticles using nanoprecipitation methods and tested them on scratch-wounded cartilage cells, comparing four groups: CPT-loaded nanoparticles, empty nanoparticles, saline control, and healthy control cells. The CPT-loaded nanoparticles showed superior drug-loading capacity and significantly improved cartilage repair markers, including increased type II collagen and hyaluronic acid levels, reduced MMP13 expression, and enhanced cell proliferation compared to controls. The treatment effectively restored cartilage cell function to near-healthy levels, suggesting this nano-drug delivery system could be a promising therapeutic approach for cartilage injury.

DISCOVERING ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN ACOUSTIC EMISSION AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING BIOMARKERS FROM 10 OSTEOARTHRITIC KNEES.

DOI: 10.1109/TBME.2022.3171493 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:15:11
This exploratory study aimed to understand the relationship between acoustic emission (AE) signals from knee joints and specific anatomical damage visible on MRI in osteoarthritis patients. The researchers developed a novel framework to correlate static 3D MRI cartilage measurements with dynamic 1D acoustic signals recorded during sit-stand-sit movements in 10 osteoarthritis patients aged 55-79 years. The study found a strong inverse relationship between knee AE and cartilage thickness in the medial compartment during full weight-bearing, with thinner cartilage producing more intense acoustic signals (higher amplitude, energy, duration, and frequency). These findings suggest that acoustic emission could serve as a promising, low-cost, non-invasive biomarker for monitoring knee joint deterioration in osteoarthritis.

NA

DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094672 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:15:05
This review article aimed to examine the protective roles of two key molecules, proteoglycan 4 (PRG4)/lubricin and growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF5), in osteoarthritis (OA) development and potential treatment. The authors summarized findings from genetic studies in humans and mice, focusing on the transcriptional regulation and functional mechanisms of these molecules in articular cartilage maintenance. The review highlights that PRG4/lubricin, expressed in the superficial cartilage zone and synovium, functions protectively against OA, while GDF5, found on the cartilage surface layer, plays crucial roles in joint formation and OA pathogenesis. The authors conclude that molecular targeting of PRG4 and GDF5 pathways could offer new therapeutic approaches for OA treatment, addressing the current limitation of only symptom-alleviating treatments.

TOUGH ENGINEERING HYDROGELS BASED ON SWELLING-FREEZE-THAW METHOD FOR ARTIFICIAL CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c02990 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:14:59
This study aimed to develop a tough engineered hydrogel (TEHY) that could serve as artificial cartilage by addressing the limitations of current poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogels, particularly their poor performance under repeated mechanical loading. The researchers used a swelling-freeze-thaw method to create hydrogels and tested their mechanical properties, including compressive strength, toughness, friction, and fatigue resistance under cyclic loading. The resulting TEHY demonstrated exceptional properties including high compressive strength (31 MPa), very low friction (0.01), and remarkable durability—surviving 100,000 compression cycles and even compression by a 1600 kg automobile while maintaining structural integrity. The hydrogel also showed excellent resistance to water swelling and good biocompatibility with muscle cells, suggesting strong potential as a biomaterial for cartilage replacement applications.

SWELLING AND MECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF POLYELECTROLYTE HYDROGELS AS POTENTIAL SYNTHETIC CARTILAGE SUBSTITUTE MATERIALS.

DOI: 10.3390/gels8050296 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:14:53
This study aimed to evaluate synthetic polyelectrolyte hydrogels as potential alternatives to natural materials for cartilage tissue engineering applications. The researchers characterized the swelling properties, mechanical stiffness, stress response, stress-relaxation, and cyclic loading behavior of these synthetic hydrogels, comparing them to Chondrofiller Liquid, a commercially available biomaterial used clinically for cartilage repair. The synthetic hydrogels demonstrated excellent reproducibility and high mechanical strength, with tunable compressive moduli ranging from 2.5 to 1708.7 kPa, which spans the mechanical properties of human articular cartilage. These findings suggest that synthetic polyelectrolyte hydrogels could offer advantages over natural hydrogels by providing better mechanical stability, reproducibility, and cost-effectiveness while maintaining appropriate biomechanical properties for cartilage applications.

THE HOMEOSTASIS OF CARTILAGE MATRIX REMODELING AND THE REGULATION OF VOLUME-SENSITIVE ION CHANNEL.

DOI: 10.14336/AD.2021.1122 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:14:48
This review examines how volume-sensitive ion channels regulate cartilage matrix remodeling and their potential role in osteoarthritis development. The authors analyze the current literature on ion channels expressed in chondrocytes, focusing on their functions in volume regulation, pain, inflammation, and cell survival processes. Key findings indicate that these ion channels play crucial roles in maintaining cartilage homeostasis and that disruption of normal volume regulation contributes to the cartilage breakdown characteristic of osteoarthritis. The review particularly highlights the volume-sensitive anion channel LRRC8A as a potential mechanism underlying early osteoarthritis development, suggesting it could represent a therapeutic target for joint disease.

PREDICTING SEVERITY OF CARTILAGE DAMAGE IN A POST-TRAUMATIC PORCINE MODEL: SYNOVIAL FLUID AND GAIT IN A SUPPORT VECTOR MACHINE.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268198 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:14:43
This study aimed to determine whether inflammatory markers in synovial fluid and altered gait patterns could predict cartilage damage severity following ACL injury in a porcine model. Thirty-six minipigs underwent ACL transection with three different treatment approaches, and researchers collected synovial fluid samples and gait data at multiple time points over 52 weeks, using general estimating equations and support vector machine analysis to assess relationships with cartilage outcomes. Contrary to expectations, the presence of various inflammatory cytokines (IL-1α, IL-1RA, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-12, MMP-13) in synovial fluid was associated with better cartilage outcomes, while higher peak pressures during walking predicted worse cartilage damage. The findings suggest that the absence of detectable cytokines in synovial fluid, rather than their presence, may indicate higher risk for cartilage deterioration after joint injury.

A FRICTION TESTING-BIOREACTOR DEVICE FOR STUDY OF SYNOVIAL JOINT BIOMECHANICS, MECHANOBIOLOGY, AND PHYSICAL REGULATION.

DOI: 10.3791/63880 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:14:36
This study developed a specialized friction testing device designed to replicate joint motion and investigate the mechanical interactions between synovial tissue and cartilage in osteoarthritis research. The device applies controlled reciprocal sliding motion and normal loads to biological tissue samples while measuring friction coefficients, and was tested using synovium-on-cartilage configurations in both phosphate-buffered saline and synovial fluid environments. Testing across different contact stress levels demonstrated that synovial fluid provides superior lubrication properties, particularly under high loads compared to saline solution. This biomimetic bioreactor enables researchers to study how mechanical loading affects joint tissue behavior and cellular responses, providing a valuable tool for understanding joint degeneration and homeostasis in osteoarthritis.

BIOINSPIRED HYDROXYAPATITE COATING INFILTRATED WITH A GRAPHENE OXIDE HYBRID SUPRAMOLECULAR HYDROGEL ORCHESTRATES ANTIBACTERIAL AND SELF-LUBRICATING PERFORMANCE.

DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c07869 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:14:30
This study aimed to develop an improved hydroxyapatite (HA) coating for metallic implants that addresses the common problems of high friction, wear, and bacterial infection that limit current HA coatings in joint replacements. The researchers created a composite coating by infiltrating textured HA with a vancomycin-loaded graphene oxide (GO) hydrogel using vacuum infiltration followed by self-assembly, where the HA holes act as containers for the hydrogel. The key finding was that this hybrid coating dramatically improved performance, reducing friction by nearly 5-fold and wear by three orders of magnitude compared to standard HA coating, while also providing antibacterial properties through controlled drug release. The hydrogel mimics natural synovial fluid by transitioning from gel to liquid state when exposed to shear forces or frictional heat during joint movement, enabling self-lubrication and sustained antibiotic delivery.

IMMUNOHISTOCHEMICAL EVALUATION OF AUTOTAXIN AND LUBRICIN IN MILD OSTEOARTHRITIC RAT MODEL PERFORMING MODERATE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2022.151936 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:14:23
This study investigated how moderate exercise affects the expression of two key molecules—autotaxin (ATX) and lubricin—in rat knee cartilage during early osteoarthritis (OA). Researchers used a mild OA rat model created by cutting the anterior cruciate ligament, then had some rats exercise on treadmills for 12 weeks before analyzing protein expression in femur, tibia, and patella cartilage using immunohistochemical staining. The results showed that ATX levels were elevated in the femur and tibia of OA rats, supporting its potential role as a disease progression marker, while moderate exercise successfully reduced ATX expression in the femur. However, lubricin expression remained unchanged across all joint surfaces regardless of exercise, suggesting that while physical activity may help slow OA progression by reducing harmful ATX levels, it doesn't significantly boost the protective lubricin protein.

WALKING ON WATER: REVISITING THE ROLE OF WATER IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE BIOMECHANICS IN RELATION TO TISSUE ENGINEERING AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE.

DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2022.0364 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:14:16
This review paper challenges the conventional understanding of water's role in articular cartilage mechanics for tissue engineering applications. The authors propose a paradigm shift from viewing water as a passive filler to recognizing it as the primary load-bearing component, structured by macromolecules like collagen, aggrecan, and hyaluronan through polyelectrolyte interactions. The key finding suggests that water, comprising 70-80% of cartilage with a bulk modulus greater than the tissue itself, actively supports mechanical loads when properly organized by the extracellular matrix. This reconceptualization could inform cartilage tissue engineering strategies by focusing on how developing tissues can guide cells to produce the appropriate macromolecular composition needed to structure water for optimal mechanical properties.

PHYSICAL, MECHANICAL, AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF FIBRIN SCAFFOLDS FOR CARTILAGE REPAIR.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179879 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:14:10
This review examines fibrin scaffolds as a biomaterial for cartilage tissue engineering applications. The authors systematically analyzed the biological, physical, and mechanical properties of fibrin when used alone or in combination with other materials for cartilage repair. The review highlights that fibrin demonstrates good biocompatibility and supports cell growth and differentiation, making it suitable for addressing cartilage's limited natural healing capacity due to its avascular nature. The findings suggest that fibrin's properties can be further enhanced through combination with other biomaterials, positioning it as a promising scaffold option for repairing cartilage defects in tissue engineering approaches.

A ROBUST, LOW SWELLING, AND LIPID-LUBRICATED HYDROGEL FOR BIONIC ARTICULAR CARTILAGE SUBSTITUTE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.08.146 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:14:04
This study aimed to develop a biomimetic hydrogel that could replicate the load-bearing and lubrication properties of natural articular cartilage for potential use as a cartilage substitute. The researchers created a lipid-lubricated hydrogel by incorporating liposomes into the hydrogel structure and tested its mechanical properties (strength, stiffness, recovery) and friction characteristics. The results showed impressive mechanical performance with a compressive strength of 5.8 MPa and modulus of 4.7 MPa at 50% strain, plus over 98% recovery of properties after loading cycles. The lipid lubrication dramatically reduced friction to a coefficient of just 0.026 - more than 5 times lower than standard hydrogels without liposomes, suggesting this material could serve as an effective load-bearing cartilage replacement.

ACTIVATING EGFR SIGNALING ATTENUATES OSTEOARTHRITIS DEVELOPMENT FOLLOWING LOADING INJURY IN MICE.

DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.4717 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:13:59
This study investigated whether activating EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) signaling could protect against post-traumatic osteoarthritis development in mice. Researchers used a non-surgical loading model where controlled cyclic forces were applied to mouse tibias to induce cartilage injury, then tested the effects of overexpressing EGFR ligands in cartilage or delivering them via nanoparticle injections.

Overactivating EGFR signaling significantly reduced cartilage damage, inflammation, and pain by protecting cartilage cells from injury-induced cell death and maintaining their ability to proliferate and produce lubricants. As a potential treatment approach, injecting EGFR ligand-loaded nanoparticles into joints every 3 weeks for 12 weeks partially reduced osteoarthritis symptoms, suggesting EGFR activation could be developed as a novel therapeutic strategy for post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

INTRA-ARTICULAR KINETICS OF A CARTILAGE TARGETING CATIONIC PEGYLATED PROTEIN FOR APPLICATIONS IN DRUG DELIVERY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2022.09.010 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:13:52
This study investigated the biodistribution and retention of a novel cartilage-targeting drug delivery system called multi-arm avidin (MAV) following injection into rat knee joints. The researchers used fluorescence microscopy and immunohistochemistry to track MAV movement through joint tissues over 7 days, comparing uptake between young and old rats while assessing safety through cytotoxicity and immune response tests. MAV successfully penetrated the full thickness of cartilage and other joint tissues within 6 hours and remained detectable for 7 days, with uptake strongly correlating with tissue GAG concentration due to electrostatic interactions between the positively-charged MAV and negatively-charged cartilage proteoglycans. The system showed no cytotoxicity up to 300 μM and demonstrated versatile targeting of multiple joint tissues including chondrocytes and bone cells, making it a promising platform for delivering drugs to treat various musculoskeletal diseases.

INFLUENCE OF HYALURONIC ACID ON INTRA-ARTICULAR FRICTION - A BIOMECHANICAL STUDY IN WHOLE ANIMAL JOINTS.

DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05867-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:13:46
This study investigated how hyaluronic acid (HA) affects joint friction compared to other lubricants in damaged cartilage. The researchers tested nine sheep carpo-metacarpal joints using a mechanical testing machine that simulated physiological movement with 10° rotation under increasing loads (100-400 N), measuring dissipated energy as a friction indicator across three conditions: native joints, artificially damaged cartilage (dried out), and relubricated joints with three different solutions (saline, fetal calf serum, and HA). The study found that cartilage damage dramatically increased joint friction compared to native joints, and this friction increased even more significantly under higher loads in damaged joints. Among the three lubricants tested, HA provided the greatest reduction in joint friction, achieving the lowest dissipated energy values and demonstrating superior lubricating properties compared to saline or fetal calf serum.

BILAYER HYDROGELS WITH LOW FRICTION AND HIGH LOAD-BEARING CAPACITY BY MIMICKING THE ORIENTED HIERARCHICAL STRUCTURE OF CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c13641 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:13:39
This study aimed to develop cartilage replacement materials by creating bilayer hydrogels that mimic the natural oriented hierarchical structure of articular cartilage. The researchers constructed anisotropic hydrogels with horizontal and vertical orientations, bonding them layer-by-layer to create a bilayer system with a load-bearing bottom layer and lubricating surface layer. The bilayer hydrogel achieved impressive mechanical properties, including high compressive strength (5.21 ± 0.45 MPa) and modulus (4.06 ± 0.31 MPa), while maintaining excellent lubrication with friction coefficients of 0.032 (hard/soft contact) and 0.028 (soft/soft contact) that closely match natural cartilage performance. The material also demonstrated exceptional fatigue resistance, withstanding repeated loading without crack formation, suggesting strong potential as a cartilage replacement material.

METABOLOMIC PROFILING TO UNDERSTAND CHONDROCYTE METABOLISM.

DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2839-3_11 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:13:33
This study aimed to develop a metabolomic profiling protocol for analyzing chondrocyte metabolism and understanding metabolic changes in joint disease and mechanical loading responses. The researchers describe methodological procedures for quantitatively measuring thousands of small molecule metabolites in chondrocytes and other synovial joint tissues and fluids using metabolomics techniques. The protocol enables comprehensive analysis of cellular biochemistry by detecting both metabolic products and reactants involved in chondrocyte function. This approach provides a new tool for investigating how metabolic alterations contribute to joint disease and how chondrocytes adapt metabolically to physiological stimuli like mechanical loading.

LOSS OF RAP2A AGGRAVATES CARTILAGE DEGRADATION IN TMJOA VIA YAP SIGNALING.

DOI: 10.1177/00220345221132213 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:13:28
This study investigated how the protein RAP2A functions as a mechanotransduction molecule in temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA), converting mechanical stress into cellular signaling in cartilage cells. The researchers used mouse models of TMJOA induced by abnormal bite patterns and genetically modified mice lacking RAP2A to examine cartilage degradation and cellular pathways. They found that RAP2A levels decreased as cartilage degraded, and mice without RAP2A developed severe cartilage degeneration and TMJOA through disrupted Hippo/YAP signaling pathways. The findings suggest that RAP2A is essential for maintaining healthy cartilage by regulating how chondrocytes respond to mechanical forces, potentially offering new targets for early TMJOA treatment.

ASSOCIATIONS OF HUMAN FEMORAL CONDYLE CARTILAGE STRUCTURE AND COMPOSITION WITH VISCOELASTIC AND CONSTITUENT-SPECIFIC MATERIAL PROPERTIES AT DIFFERENT STAGES OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2022.111390 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:13:22
This study investigated how structural changes in knee cartilage relate to mechanical function across different stages of osteoarthritis. The researchers analyzed 47 human femoral condyle cartilage samples, measuring proteoglycan content, collagen organization, and collagen content at different tissue depths, then correlated these with mechanical properties obtained through dynamic testing and mathematical modeling.

The key findings showed that in superficial cartilage, both proteoglycan loss and collagen network disorganization reduced the initial tension (pretension) of the collagen network, while proteoglycan loss specifically increased the nonlinear mechanical behavior of cartilage. Additionally, both structural changes increased cartilage viscosity, but proteoglycan loss affected viscosity during slow loading (0.005 Hz) while collagen disorganization affected viscosity during fast loading (1 Hz).

These results provide important insights into how the progressive breakdown of cartilage structure in osteoarthritis leads to altered mechanical function, with different components contributing to mechanical changes under different loading conditions.

EMPIRICAL JOINT CONTACT MECHANICS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW.

DOI: 10.1177/09544119221137397 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:13:15
This review examined empirical joint contact mechanics (EJCM) measurement techniques used to understand how joint pathology and aging affect cartilage interactions and osteoarthritis risk. The authors comprehensively reviewed various measurement approaches including classical methods (radiography, dye staining, casting, pressure measurement), advanced imaging techniques (CT, MRI), stereophotogrammetry, and high-speed videoradiography. The review found that multiple complementary techniques are available to measure contact area, forces, and surface velocities in articulating joints, each with specific advantages for different research questions. The authors concluded that EJCM measurements provide valuable insights into cartilage health and degeneration, offering potential to guide and assess surgical, biological, and rehabilitative interventions for optimizing long-term joint function.

THE ACETABULAR LABRUM TISSUE SHOWS UNIQUE TRANSCRIPTOME SIGNATURES COMPARED TO CARTILAGE AND RESPONDS TO COMBINED CYCLIC COMPRESSION AND SURFACE SHEARING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.147140 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:13:10
This study aimed to characterize the unique molecular profile of acetabular labrum tissue and understand how it responds to mechanical forces, which is crucial for developing effective labrum restoration treatments. The researchers used RNA sequencing to compare gene expression between bovine labrum and articular cartilage tissues, and tested how labrum tissue responds to combined compression and shearing forces over 5 days in culture.

The analysis revealed that labrum tissue has a distinct molecular signature with over 6,000 genes expressed differently compared to cartilage, particularly genes involved in extracellular matrix organization. When subjected to mechanical loading, the labrum tissue responded by increasing expression of key structural proteins (aggrecan, COMP, fibronectin, and PRG4), similar to how cartilage responds to mechanical stress, suggesting preserved tissue adaptation mechanisms despite the molecular differences between these tissues.

TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT OSTEOARTHRITIS: PATHOGENIC MECHANISMS INVOLVING THE CARTILAGE AND SUBCHONDRAL BONE, AND POTENTIAL THERAPEUTIC STRATEGIES FOR JOINT REGENERATION.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010171 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:13:03
This review aimed to examine the disease mechanisms affecting cartilage and bone in temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ OA) and evaluate potential regenerative treatments. The authors conducted a literature review focusing on pathological changes in joint structures and therapeutic interventions tested in animal models. The study found that TMJ OA involves complex interactions between cartilage loss, bone remodeling, and multiple joint structures, with subchondral bone initially losing mass before becoming thick and stiff during repair attempts. Among regenerative therapies, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and mesenchymal stem cells showed more promise for cartilage and bone repair than hyaluronic acid alone, though combining treatments may enhance therapeutic outcomes.

RIBOSOMAL RNA-BASED EPITRANSCRIPTOMIC REGULATION OF CHONDROCYTE TRANSLATION AND PROTEOME IN OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2022.12.010 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:12:57
This exploratory study investigated how chemical modifications of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) regulate protein production in cartilage cells during osteoarthritis development. The researchers used sequencing techniques to analyze rRNA modifications in human cartilage cells exposed to osteoarthritic joint fluid, and then experimentally manipulated specific modification sites using gene editing and protein analysis methods. They discovered that osteoarthritic joint fluid causes specific changes in rRNA chemical modifications at five distinct sites, and when they reduced one particular modification (at site 5.8S-U14), it altered how ribosomes translate messenger RNA and specifically increased production of collagen type I protein. These findings reveal a previously unknown mechanism by which cartilage cells may contribute to osteoarthritis progression through ribosome-mediated changes in protein production.

BIOMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF PORCINE MENISCUS AS DETERMINED VIA AFM: EFFECT OF REGION, COMPARTMENT AND ANISOTROPY.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280616 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:12:50
This study aimed to measure the compressive stiffness of porcine meniscus tissue and determine how it varies based on testing direction, knee compartment location, and tissue region. Researchers used atomic force microscopy (AFM) to perform microscale compression tests on 72 meniscus samples organized into 8 groups, testing both circumferential and axial directions from medial/lateral compartments and inner/outer regions. The compressive modulus ranged from 0.75 to 4.00 MPa across all samples, with only testing direction showing a significant effect - the circumferential direction was stiffer than the axial direction. This directional difference reflects the meniscus's anisotropic structure, where circumferentially-oriented collagen fibers provide greater resistance to compression in that direction, supporting the tissue's role in load transmission within the knee joint.

SYNOVIAL FLUID DERIVED FROM HUMAN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS INCREASES THE VIABILITY OF HUMAN ADIPOSE-DERIVED STEM CELLS THROUGH UPREGULATION OF FOSL1.

DOI: 10.3390/cells12020330 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:12:44
This study investigated how synovial fluid from knee osteoarthritis patients affects adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) used in therapeutic treatments. The researchers treated cultured ADSCs with osteoarthritic synovial fluid and used DNA microarrays, RT-PCR, and Western blot analysis to examine gene expression changes, with specific focus on the FOSL1 gene through knockdown experiments using siRNA. The key finding was that synovial fluid significantly increased ADSC viability by upregulating the FOSL1 gene, and when FOSL1 was knocked down, both baseline cell viability and the protective effect of synovial fluid were reduced. These results suggest that creating conditions that enhance FOSL1 expression in ADSCs could improve the therapeutic effectiveness of stem cell treatments for knee osteoarthritis.

A BIOMIMETIC LUBRICATING NANOSYSTEM WITH RESPONSIVE DRUG RELEASE FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS SYNERGISTIC THERAPY.

DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202203245 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:12:38
This study aimed to develop a dual-function nanosystem that simultaneously provides joint lubrication and controlled anti-inflammatory drug delivery for osteoarthritis treatment. The researchers created biomimetic nanoparticles by grafting hyaluronic acid onto fluorinated graphene using dopamine chemistry, then loaded them with the anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac sodium (29.2% loading capacity) for near-infrared light-triggered release. The nanosystem reduced friction coefficients by 75% compared to water and demonstrated sustained lubrication under various conditions, while cell studies showed the particles were taken up by endocytosis and effectively reduced inflammation by promoting cartilage-building genes and suppressing cartilage-degrading enzymes. This biomimetic approach offers a promising strategy for synergistic osteoarthritis therapy by combining enhanced joint lubrication with controllable anti-inflammatory drug delivery.

LOW-FRICTION HYBRID HYDROGEL WITH EXCELLENT MECHANICAL PROPERTIES FOR SIMULATING ARTICULAR CARTILAGE MOVEMENT.

DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c03109 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:12:32
This study aimed to develop a hybrid hydrogel that could overcome the mechanical and tribological limitations of current hydrogel materials for cartilage repair applications. The researchers synthesized the hydrogel using chemical cross-linking and transesterification of glycerol ethoxylate (GE) and zwitterionic polysulfobetaine methacrylate (PSBMA), then tested its mechanical properties, friction characteristics, and biocompatibility through compression testing, tribological analysis, and cytotoxicity assays. The hybrid hydrogel demonstrated excellent compressive strength (3.50 MPa), remarkably low friction coefficient (μ ≈ 0.028) in soft-soft contact testing, and good biocompatibility with no cytotoxic effects. These findings suggest the GE-PSBMA hybrid hydrogel represents a promising biomaterial for cartilage replacement, combining the mechanical durability and low-friction properties essential for joint applications.

INCIDENCE OF COMPRESSION-INDUCED MICROINJURIES IN THE CARTILAGE ENDPLATE OF THE SPINE.

DOI: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000004521 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:12:19
This study investigated how repetitive compression loading causes microscopic injuries in spinal cartilage endplates by testing different joint positions, loading durations, and compression forces. Researchers subjected 114 porcine cervical spine segments to cyclic compression testing under various conditions (flexed vs. neutral posture, 1000-5000 loading cycles, and different peak compression levels), then used specialized staining to identify four types of microinjuries in the cartilage and bone. The results showed that spinal posture influenced the type of microinjury that occurred—with avulsion and node injuries predominantly occurring in flexed positions while cartilage injuries were more common in neutral positions—and that longer loading duration significantly increased both the likelihood and size of microinjuries. These findings suggest that repetitive spinal loading, particularly over extended periods, can cause cumulative microscopic damage to the cartilage endplate, with the pattern of injury depending on spinal positioning during loading.

EVALUATION OF THE EFFECT OF INTRA-ARTICULAR PLATELET-RICH PLASMA AND HYALURONIC ACID INJECTIONS ON FEMORAL CARTILAGE THICKNESS IN CHRONIC KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.52628/88.4.10243 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:12:11
This study compared the effects of intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections on femoral cartilage thickness in 40 patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis. The researchers used a randomized controlled design, measuring cartilage thickness with ultrasonography and assessing clinical outcomes (pain, stiffness, function) using VAS and WOMAC scores over 6 months. Both treatments significantly improved pain and functional outcomes with no difference between groups, but only HA injections led to increased femoral cartilage thickness starting at 1 month and continuing through 6 months. The key finding suggests HA may have structural benefits for cartilage preservation that PRP does not provide, despite similar symptomatic improvements from both treatments.

NETWORK-BASED MODELLING OF MECHANO-INFLAMMATORY CHONDROCYTE REGULATION IN EARLY OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1006066 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:12:05
This study aimed to develop a computational model that captures how mechanical forces and inflammation interact to regulate chondrocyte (cartilage cell) behavior in early osteoarthritis. The researchers created a network-based model incorporating 118 cellular components (receptors, signaling molecules, proteins) connected through 358 interactions, then tested how different mechanical loading and inflammatory conditions affect cell responses.

The model successfully predicted that normal physiological conditions promote healthy cartilage maintenance (anabolic state), while inflammatory signals and excessive mechanical loading drive cartilage breakdown (catabolic state), with 94% accuracy when compared to existing experimental data. Key findings revealed that inflammation has the strongest negative effect on chondrocyte health, followed by static compression, while anti-inflammatory treatments showed the most promise for intervention.

However, the model also indicated that restoring normal cartilage protein production remains challenging even with beneficial treatments, highlighting the complexity of cartilage repair in osteoarthritis.

RECENT PROGRESS IN HYDROGEL-BASED SYNTHETIC CARTILAGE: FOCUS ON LUBRICATION AND LOAD-BEARING CAPACITIES.

DOI: 10.3390/gels9020144 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:11:57
This review examines recent developments in hydrogel-based synthetic cartilage designed to replace damaged articular cartilage in osteoarthritis patients. The authors conducted a comprehensive literature review focusing specifically on the lubrication and load-bearing properties of cartilage-like hydrogels, analyzing different formulations and their current limitations. The review highlights that hydrogels show promise as cartilage replacements due to their similar physical and chemical properties to natural articular cartilage, particularly their highly hydrated polymer chain structure. The authors conclude by discussing ongoing challenges and future research directions needed to develop effective hydrogel-based treatments for cartilage repair and regeneration.

INHIBITION OF HISTONE LYSINE DEMETHYLASE 6A PROMOTES CHONDROCYTIC ACTIVITY AND ATTENUATES OSTEOARTHRITIS DEVELOPMENT THROUGH REPRESSING H3K27ME3 ENHANCEMENT OF WNT10A.

DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2023.106394 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:11:52
This study investigated whether inhibiting the histone demethylase enzyme KDM6A could protect against osteoarthritis development by altering gene expression in cartilage cells. The researchers used genetically modified mice lacking KDM6A in cartilage cells, performed RNA and chromatin sequencing to analyze gene expression changes, and tested a KDM6A inhibitor drug (GSK-J4) in an osteoarthritis model. They found that removing or blocking KDM6A activity preserved cartilage-producing cell function, reduced osteoarthritis symptoms (including cartilage loss and bone changes), and improved joint mobility by increasing histone methylation marks that suppress harmful WNT10A signaling. The findings suggest that KDM6A inhibitors could be a potential therapeutic approach for treating osteoarthritis by maintaining healthy cartilage cell activity.

THE ROLE OF LUBRICIN, IRISIN AND EXERCISE IN THE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065126 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:11:46
This study aimed to critically analyze the research on two key proteins—lubricin and irisin—and their relationship to joint health and osteoarthritis, with a focus on exercise-based interventions. The researchers conducted a comprehensive literature review using multiple databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scopus) to identify recent research on these proteins and their roles in cartilage homeostasis. The analysis revealed that lubricin, a joint-lubricating protein whose production increases with movement, is crucial for protecting cartilage surfaces, while irisin, an exercise-induced "sports hormone" released by muscle tissue, appears to have beneficial effects on joint tissue. The findings support the molecular basis for why exercise is consistently recommended for osteoarthritis treatment and provide new insights for developing targeted therapeutic approaches based on these exercise-responsive proteins.

SECRETIVE DERIVED FROM HYPOXIA PRECONDITIONED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS PROMOTE CARTILAGE REGENERATION AND MITIGATE JOINT INFLAMMATION VIA EXTRACELLULAR VESICLES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.03.017 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:11:39
This study investigated whether hypoxia preconditioning of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) enhances their therapeutic potential for cartilage repair compared to normal oxygen conditions. The researchers compared secreted factors and extracellular vesicles (EVs) from MSCs grown under hypoxic versus normal oxygen conditions using laboratory cell studies and a rat cartilage defect model. They found that hypoxia-conditioned MSC secretome and EVs were more effective at promoting cartilage repair and reducing joint inflammation, even at lower doses, through enhanced chondrocyte growth, migration, and matrix production while reducing inflammatory responses. The improved therapeutic effects were linked to changes in functional proteins, EV size, and specific microRNAs, suggesting that hypoxia preconditioning activates multiple beneficial molecular pathways for cartilage regeneration.

AGGRECAN AND HYALURONAN: THE INFAMOUS CARTILAGE POLYELECTROLYTES - THEN AND NOW.

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-25588-5_1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:11:32
This review article examines the structure, function, and regulation of aggrecan and hyaluronan, two critical molecules in cartilage tissue. The authors synthesized current knowledge from biochemical and genetic studies to understand how these polyelectrolytes contribute to cartilage biomechanics and are regulated during development and disease. The key findings highlight that aggrecan's negatively charged glycosaminoglycans create osmotic swelling pressure that enables cartilage to absorb mechanical stress, while hyaluronan acts as a "metabolic rheostat" controlling chondrocyte responses during cartilage remodeling. The authors conclude that future therapeutic advances for osteoarthritis and cartilage engineering will require big data approaches to uncover novel regulatory mechanisms controlling these essential cartilage components.

MULTISCALE IN SILICO MODELING OF CARTILAGE INJURIES.

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-25588-5_3 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:11:27
This study aimed to develop computational models to understand and predict cartilage degradation mechanisms following joint injury, with the goal of enabling personalized prognosis for post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The researchers used multiscale in silico (computer-based) modeling combined with experimental validation to test two proposed degradation mechanisms: biomechanically-driven degradation (caused by excessive mechanical stress/strain) and biochemically-driven degradation (caused by inflammatory cytokines). The modeling revealed that biomechanical degradation occurs locally around the injury site, while biochemical degradation from inflammation affects all exposed cartilage surfaces through synovial fluid. The authors propose this computational approach could be applied clinically for personalized treatment planning and prognosis prediction in patients with joint injuries.

NA

DOI: 10.7150/thno.77597 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:11:21
This study aimed to optimize the production of therapeutic extracellular vesicles (EVs) from bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) for osteoarthritis treatment by testing different culture conditions. The researchers compared xeno-free supplement (XFS) medium versus fetal bovine serum (FBS) medium, and normal oxygen versus low oxygen (hypoxic) conditions, then tested the anti-inflammatory effects of the resulting EVs on cartilage cells and analyzed their microRNA content.

EVs produced using XFS medium showed significantly stronger anti-inflammatory effects compared to FBS-derived EVs, with hypoxic preconditioning enhancing therapeutic effectiveness in both cases. The XFS-derived EVs contained higher levels of protective microRNAs (including miR-145 and miR-214) that were shown to protect cartilage cells from inflammation and reduce production of harmful inflammatory molecules.

INJECTABLE AND DEGRADABLE POSS-POLYPHOSPHATE-POLYSACCHARIDE HYBRID HYDROGEL SCAFFOLD FOR CARTILAGE REGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c22947 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:11:14
This study aimed to develop an injectable hydrogel scaffold that mimics cartilage's extracellular matrix to support stem cell-based cartilage repair. The researchers created a hybrid hydrogel by cross-linking a silicon-containing polymer (POSS-PEEP) with modified hyaluronic acid, then tested its mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and ability to support human mesenchymal stem cell growth and differentiation into cartilage cells. The hydrogel demonstrated strong adhesion to cartilage tissue, resistance to repeated compression, and successfully supported stem cell survival and cartilage formation, with enhanced results when loaded with TGF-β growth factor. In rat studies, the scaffold significantly improved cartilage regeneration compared to controls, suggesting this injectable, biodegradable material could be a promising treatment for cartilage defects.

DOWNREGULATION OF HAS‑2 REGULATES THE CHONDROCYTE CYTOSKELETON AND INDUCES CARTILAGE DEGENERATION BY ACTIVATING THE RHOA/ROCK SIGNALING PATHWAY.

DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2023.5260 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:11:08
This study investigated how hyaluronan synthase-2 (HAS-2), an enzyme that produces hyaluronic acid, affects cartilage cell structure and osteoarthritis development. The researchers used chemical inhibition (4-methylumbelliferone) and genetic knockdown techniques to reduce HAS-2 expression in cartilage cells, then analyzed the effects using various molecular and imaging methods including PCR, microscopy, and tissue scoring. They found that reducing HAS-2 levels activated a cellular signaling pathway (RhoA/ROCK) that disrupted the internal skeleton of cartilage cells, caused abnormal cell shapes, promoted cell death, and led to cartilage breakdown. The findings suggest that maintaining adequate HAS-2 levels is crucial for healthy cartilage, and targeting this enzyme could offer new therapeutic approaches for preventing osteoarthritis.

HYALURONIC ACID-BASED M1 MACROPHAGE TARGETING AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIVE DRUG RELEASING NANOPARTICLE FOR ENHANCED TREATMENT OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121018 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:11:01
This study aimed to develop a targeted nanoparticle system for delivering dexamethasone specifically to inflammatory M1 macrophages in rheumatoid arthritis joints. The researchers created nanoparticles using hyaluronic acid and β-cyclodextrin with carbon dots as cross-linkers, taking advantage of hyaluronic acid's ability to target M1 macrophages and respond to the acidic, reactive oxygen species-rich environment of inflamed joints. The nanoparticles showed 3.7-fold higher uptake by M1 macrophages compared to normal macrophages and released dexamethasone within 24 hours in response to inflammatory conditions. In vivo testing demonstrated that the treatment accumulated in arthritic joints within 24 hours, reduced inflammation, and increased cartilage thickness to 0.45 mm, indicating effective therapeutic outcomes for rheumatoid arthritis.

REINFORCEMENT OF HYDROGELS WITH A 3D-PRINTED POLYCAPROLACTONE (PCL) STRUCTURE ENHANCES CELL NUMBERS AND CARTILAGE ECM PRODUCTION UNDER COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.3390/jfb14060313 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:10:55
This study investigated whether reinforcing hydrogels with 3D-printed polycaprolactone (PCL) structures could improve cartilage tissue engineering outcomes under mechanical compression. The researchers tested chondrocyte-laden hydrogels with and without PCL reinforcement under different compression durations, measuring cell numbers and extracellular matrix (ECM) production including glycosaminoglycans and collagen types.

The results showed that while longer compression periods reduced cell numbers and ECM production in regular hydrogels, PCL reinforcement helped maintain higher cell numbers under mechanical loading. However, the reinforced constructs produced more fibrocartilage-like tissue (characterized by collagen type 1) rather than the desired hyaline cartilage (collagen type 2), suggesting that while structural integrity was improved, the quality of cartilage formed was compromised.

IMMATURE BOVINE CARTILAGE WEAR IS DUE TO FATIGUE FAILURE FROM REPETITIVE COMPRESSIVE FORCES AND NOT RECIPROCATING FRICTIONAL FORCES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2023.08.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:10:49
This study investigated whether cartilage wear is primarily caused by friction or by repetitive compression forces. Researchers tested immature bovine cartilage samples using two configurations: one with stationary contact (high friction, static compression) and another with migrating contact (low friction, repetitive compression), while controlling for contact pressure and sliding parameters. The key finding was that samples subjected to repetitive compression showed significantly greater surface damage and delamination between cartilage layers, despite experiencing much lower friction forces than the stationary contact group. These results suggest that cartilage wear is primarily driven by fatigue failure from cyclical compression rather than frictional forces, challenging conventional understanding of cartilage degradation mechanisms.

ENGINEERING CRITICAL RESIDUES OF SOX9 DISCOVERS A VARIANT WITH POTENT CAPACITY TO INDUCE CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxad066 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:10:43
This study aimed to engineer an improved version of the SOX9 transcription factor to enhance the efficiency of converting other cell types into chondrocytes (cartilage cells) for potential therapeutic applications. The researchers used alanine-scanning mutagenesis to systematically modify critical amino acid residues in SOX9's DNA-binding domain and post-translational modification sites, then tested the variants' ability to reprogram mouse embryonic fibroblasts into chondrocytes. They discovered that a SOX9 variant with two specific mutations (H131A/K398A) significantly outperformed wild-type SOX9, showing enhanced DNA-binding activity, resistance to cellular modification processes that normally inhibit SOX9, and much stronger induction of cartilage-specific genes. This engineered SOX9 variant represents a promising tool for more efficient cartilage cell generation in regenerative medicine approaches.

EFFECT OF CHOLESTEROL ON THE MECHANICAL STABILITY OF GEL-PHASE PHOSPHOLIPID BILAYERS STUDIED BY AFM FORCE SPECTROSCOPY.

DOI: 10.1140/epje/s10189-023-00338-y · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:10:37
This study investigated how cholesterol affects the mechanical strength of phospholipid bilayers that provide lubrication at cartilage surfaces in joints. The researchers used atomic force microscopy (AFM) to measure the force required to puncture bilayers made from two saturated phospholipids (DSPC and DPPC) with varying cholesterol concentrations (10% and 40%) in both water and salt solution. The key finding was that cholesterol significantly weakened the mechanical stability of both types of phospholipid bilayers in their solid-ordered phase, contrary to what might be expected for joint lubrication. This weakening effect was consistent across different experimental conditions, suggesting that cholesterol may compromise the protective function of these lipid layers under the high pressures experienced in joints.

PIEZO1 IS DOWNREGULATED IN GLENOHUMERAL CHONDROCYTES IN EARLY CUFF TEAR ARTHROPATHY FOLLOWING A MASSIVE ROTATOR CUFF TEAR IN A MOUSE MODEL.

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1244975 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:10:31
This study investigated how massive rotator cuff tears affect PIEZO1 mechanosensitive ion channels in shoulder cartilage cells, aiming to identify potential therapeutic targets to prevent cartilage degeneration after rotator cuff repair. The researchers used a mouse model of massive rotator cuff tear and assessed chondrocyte responses to mechanical stress, PIEZO1 expression, and calcium signaling at 14 weeks post-injury, representing early cuff tear arthropathy. The study found that while PIEZO1 activation normally increases chondrocyte susceptibility to mechanical damage, massive rotator cuff tears actually caused significant downregulation of PIEZO1 expression and activity in shoulder cartilage cells. The authors suggest this unexpected decrease in PIEZO1 may result from reduced mechanical loading on the shoulder joint following rotator cuff tear, rather than the anticipated upregulation from altered biomechanics.

IMPACT OF HYALURONIC ACID INJECTION ON THE KNEE JOINT FRICTION.

DOI: 10.1007/s00167-023-07602-w · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:10:25
This in vitro study investigated whether hyaluronic acid injections reduce knee joint friction in osteoarthritic joints under conditions that mimic normal walking. The researchers tested 12 human cadaveric knee joints (6 with mild and 6 with moderate osteoarthritis) using a pendulum setup that simulates gait conditions, as well as individual cartilage and meniscus samples in a specialized friction-testing device, comparing friction before and after hyaluronic acid treatment. Surprisingly, the study found that moderate osteoarthritis joints actually showed lower friction than mild osteoarthritis joints under certain loading conditions, contradicting the common assumption that joint degeneration increases friction. Most importantly, hyaluronic acid supplementation did not significantly reduce friction in either the whole joint or individual tissue tests, suggesting that the clinical benefits of these injections may not be due to improved joint lubrication as commonly believed.

IMPACT OF DEGENERATION AND MATERIAL PAIRINGS ON CARTILAGE FRICTION: CARTILAGE VERSUS GLASS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.25738 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:10:19
This study investigated how cartilage degeneration affects friction properties under realistic walking conditions, addressing gaps in previous research that used non-physiological loading. The researchers used a dynamic tribometer to test friction between cartilage-cartilage and cartilage-glass pairings under stance and swing phase conditions, comparing mildly versus severely degenerated human cartilage samples classified using international standards. The key finding was that severely degenerated cartilage showed significantly higher friction than mildly degenerated cartilage only when tested against glass, while cartilage-cartilage pairings showed minimal differences between degeneration levels. The authors conclude that cartilage-glass testing may not accurately represent in vivo conditions and recommend using physiological material pairings and gait-like loading for more clinically relevant cartilage friction studies.

MENISCUS-INSPIRED SELF-LUBRICATING AND FRICTION-RESPONSIVE HYDROGELS FOR PROTECTING ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND IMPROVING EXERCISE.

DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c10139 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:10:12
This study aimed to develop a biomimetic hydrogel treatment for meniscus injuries that could protect cartilage and maintain joint function during movement. The researchers created a friction-responsive hydrogel containing drug-loaded nanoliposomes with diclofenac sodium (anti-inflammatory) and kartogenin (cartilage regeneration promoter) that could be injected into injured meniscus tissue. The hydrogel's key innovation was its ability to release nanoliposomes in response to joint friction during movement, which then formed lubricating layers while simultaneously delivering therapeutic drugs to reduce inflammation and promote cartilage repair. In rat studies, the hydrogel injection effectively improved exercise performance and protected articular cartilage, demonstrating its potential as a clinical treatment for meniscal injuries.

DUAL-FUNCTIONAL INJECTABLE HYDROGEL FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS TREATMENTS.

DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302551 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:10:07
This study aimed to develop an injectable hydrogel with dual therapeutic functions for osteoarthritis treatment, specifically targeting both inflammation and joint lubrication problems. The researchers synthesized a hydrogel (HPP) by modifying hyaluronic acid with 3-aminophenylboronic acid and crosslinking it with polyvinyl alcohol to create a dynamic covalent network. The resulting hydrogel demonstrated the ability to scavenge harmful reactive oxygen species (which cause inflammation and cartilage damage) while simultaneously providing lubrication to reduce joint wear and tear. The dual dynamic crosslinked structure gave the hydrogel injectable, self-healing, and lubricating properties, offering a promising new approach for osteoarthritis therapy that addresses multiple disease mechanisms simultaneously.

CHARACTERIZATION OF THE AGE-RELATED DIFFERENCES IN PORCINE ACETABULUM AND FEMORAL HEAD ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1177/19476035231214724 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:10:01
This study aimed to characterize the mechanical and biochemical properties of porcine hip cartilage across different ages and weight-bearing regions to improve preclinical models for cartilage research. The researchers harvested cartilage samples from the femoral head and acetabulum of pigs at three developmental stages (fetal, juvenile, and adult), then performed mechanical stress-relaxation testing and analyzed collagen and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content through biochemical assays and histological staining. The key finding was that juvenile pigs had the strongest mechanical properties, with 2-8 times higher stiffness and up to 14 times higher viscosity compared to fetal cartilage, while collagen content was highest in non-weight-bearing regions and GAG content varied by location and age. These results provide important baseline data for researchers using porcine models to study hip cartilage injuries and diseases.

NEW CONCEPT OF ORTHOSIS TREATMENT FOR KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: CLINICAL AND RADIOLOGICAL OUTCOMES.

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230953 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:09:54
This pilot study evaluated whether a custom-made knee-unloading orthosis could improve symptoms and slow disease progression in younger patients with knee osteoarthritis as an alternative to more invasive treatments. Ten patients (median age 57) wore the orthosis for 60 days during weight-bearing activities, with clinical outcomes assessed using WOMAC and VAS pain scores up to 24 months, and structural changes measured via joint space width and MRI cartilage volume at 12 and 24 months. The orthosis significantly improved function (18-31 point WOMAC improvement) and reduced pain (41-56 point VAS improvement) at most follow-up timepoints compared to baseline. However, no improvements in joint space width or cartilage volume were detected, indicating the orthosis provided symptomatic relief without slowing structural disease progression.

THE ACTIN CYTOSKELETON AS A REGULATOR OF PROTEOGLYCAN 4.

DOI: 10.1177/19476035231223455 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:09:48
This literature review examined how the actin cytoskeleton regulates proteoglycan 4 (PRG4) production in superficial zone chondrocytes of articular cartilage. The researchers conducted a comprehensive literature search focusing on PRG4 regulation and how actin organization controls the superficial zone chondrocyte phenotype. The review found that PRG4, which is crucial for joint lubrication and cartilage protection, is strongly regulated by the actin cytoskeleton in isolated superficial zone chondrocytes, with both biochemical and mechanical stimuli potentially influencing this process through actin signaling pathways. The authors concluded that while actin-based regulation of PRG4 shows therapeutic potential for treating post-traumatic osteoarthritis, the mechanisms in native cartilage cells remain poorly understood and require further research.

CALCIUM IONS HAVE A DETRIMENTAL IMPACT ON THE BOUNDARY LUBRICATION PROPERTY OF HYALURONIC ACID AND LUBRICIN (PRG-4) BOTH ALONE AND IN COMBINATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2023.113741 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:09:43
This study investigated how elevated calcium ion levels in osteoarthritic joints affect the lubricating properties of key synovial fluid components. The researchers used atomic force microscopy (AFM) to measure friction, imaging, and force interactions of hyaluronic acid (HA), lubricin, and their combination in the presence of varying calcium concentrations (5-30 mM). The results showed that calcium ions significantly impaired the lubrication ability of both HA alone and HA-lubricin combinations, particularly under low loading conditions. The mechanism appears to involve changes in the hydration properties of these lubricating molecules rather than structural damage or altered binding interactions, providing new insights into how bone demineralization in osteoarthritis may contribute to cartilage degradation through compromised joint lubrication.

IN VITRO DRUG RELEASE AND CARTILAGE INTERFACE LUBRICATION PROPERTIES OF BIOMIMETIC POLYMERS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2024.106439 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:09:37
This study aimed to develop a biomimetic polymer that could simultaneously provide joint lubrication and deliver anti-inflammatory drugs for osteoarthritis treatment. The researchers created a brush-like lubricant by grafting poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) branches onto hyaluronic acid backbone through ring-opening and graft polymerization, then loaded it with drugs using its multi-branched structure for self-assembly. The biomimetic lubricant demonstrated excellent lubrication properties with a friction coefficient of 0.036 (comparable to natural synovial fluid) due to hydration layer formation at the cartilage interface, and achieved effective drug release with up to 77.8% release rate over 72 hours. This dual-function approach offers a promising new strategy for osteoarthritis treatment by addressing both the mechanical lubrication deficit and targeted drug delivery challenges in joint therapy.

APOPTOTIC EXTRACELLULAR VESICLES DERIVED FROM HYPOXIA-PRECONDITIONED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS WITHIN A MODIFIED GELATINE HYDROGEL PROMOTE OSTEOCHONDRAL REGENERATION BY ENHANCING STEM CELL ACTIVITY AND REGULATING IMMUNITY.

DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02333-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:09:31
This study investigated whether apoptotic extracellular vesicles (apoEVs) from mesenchymal stem cells grown under low-oxygen conditions could enhance cartilage repair compared to those from normal oxygen conditions. The researchers tested these hypoxic apoEVs (H-apoEVs) in laboratory experiments measuring cell growth and movement, then delivered them using a 3D-printed scaffold and modified gelatin carrier into joint cavities of animal models. H-apoEVs showed superior ability to promote stem cell proliferation and migration, and to favorably modify immune cell responses compared to regular apoEVs. When delivered via the scaffold system, H-apoEVs significantly enhanced cartilage regeneration by boosting endogenous stem cell activity and creating a better healing environment in the joint.

ENZYMATIC DIGESTION DOES NOT COMPROMISE SLIDING-MEDIATED CARTILAGE LUBRICATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.02.040 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:09:24
This study investigated whether osteoarthritis-like cartilage damage affects the tissue's natural lubrication mechanisms during realistic sliding conditions. The researchers used enzymatic digestion to simulate OA-related changes in bovine cartilage samples, then tested their tribological behavior using a convergent stationary contact area (CSCA) configuration that mimics in vivo joint sliding. Surprisingly, they found that damaged cartilage maintained the same low friction coefficients and fluid recovery capabilities as healthy cartilage during sliding, suggesting that cartilage's natural lubrication system remains functional even after OA-like degradation. However, the damaged cartilage experienced significantly greater tissue strains during initial loading, indicating that excessive deformation rather than friction-related wear may be the primary mechanical factor driving OA progression.

AN INJECTABLE CARTILAGE-COATING COMPOSITE WITH LONG-TERM PROTECTION, EFFECTIVE LUBRICATION AND CHONDROCYTE NOURISHMENT FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS TREATMENT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.03.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:09:17
This study aimed to develop an injectable cartilage-coating composite that could provide sustained protection and treatment for osteoarthritis, addressing the limitation of current therapies that only offer temporary pain relief without halting disease progression. The researchers created a composite material (HDC) combining hyaluronic acid, decellularized cartilage matrix, and specialized linker polymers, which was tested in a rat osteoarthritis model. The composite demonstrated the ability to coat and adhere to cartilage surfaces, forming a protective barrier that reduces friction during joint movement while gradually releasing nutrients to support cartilage cell function. The treatment showed promise as an effective cell-free approach for osteoarthritis by promoting cartilage matrix production and slowing disease progression in the animal model.

INTRA-ARTICULAR INJECTION OF INTERLEUKIN-8 NEUTRALIZING MONOCLONAL ANTIBODY EFFECTIVELY ATTENUATES OSTEOARTHRITIS PROGRESSION IN RABBITS.

DOI: 10.1177/19476035241240361 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:09:12
This study investigated whether blocking interleukin-8 (IL-8), an inflammatory protein, could slow osteoarthritis progression in a rabbit model. Researchers surgically induced osteoarthritis in rabbits by cutting the anterior cruciate ligament, then treated the animals with injections of an IL-8-blocking antibody directly into the joint, comparing results to hyaluronic acid treatment. The IL-8-blocking antibody was more effective than hyaluronic acid at reducing cartilage damage, joint inflammation, swelling, and bone marrow changes, while also improving limb function and lowering IL-8 levels in joint tissues. These findings suggest that targeting IL-8 with antibody therapy may offer a promising new treatment approach for osteoarthritis, though further research is needed to optimize the treatment and confirm long-term safety.

QUANTIFICATION OF CARTILAGE POROELASTIC MATERIAL PROPERTIES VIA ANALYSIS OF LOADING-INDUCED CELL DEATH.

DOI: 10.1115/1.4065194 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:09:06
This study aimed to develop a novel method for measuring the poroelastic mechanical properties of mouse articular cartilage by using cell death patterns as an indicator of tissue strain. The researchers subjected mouse cartilage-bone samples to constant loading using a custom device and measured cell death areas over time, then used inverse finite element modeling to calculate mechanical properties from the inferred strain values. They found that cell death area increased linearly with tissue strain over time due to poroelastic creep, allowing them to accurately infer strain from cell death measurements. The method successfully determined poroelastic material properties consistent with previous studies, providing a valuable new approach for studying cartilage mechanics in transgenic mouse models where traditional mechanical testing is challenging due to the tissue's small size.

ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT OF GONARTHROSIS: PROXIMAL FIBULAR OSTEOTOMY.

DOI: 10.2478/prilozi-2024-0002 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:09:00
This study aimed to evaluate proximal fibular osteotomy (PFO) as an alternative treatment for reducing knee pain in patients with severe medial compartment knee osteoarthritis. The researchers treated 14 patients (aged 62-82 years) with severe gonarthrosis by surgically removing a 1 cm bone fragment from the fibula, located 7 cm below the fibular head, in a 30-minute procedure. All patients showed excellent results at 6-month follow-up, with significant pain reduction and improved knee movement and quality of life. The authors conclude that PFO may be a viable treatment option for medial knee osteoarthritis, but emphasize that larger studies are needed before it can be recommended for routine clinical use.

BIOMECHANICS OF THE HUMAN OSTEOCHONDRAL UNIT: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW.

DOI: 10.3390/ma17071698 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:08:56
This systematic review aimed to comprehensively evaluate the current state of knowledge regarding the mechanical behavior of human osteochondral (OC) units, which include articular cartilage and underlying bone layers that work together to absorb forces and enable smooth joint motion. The authors conducted a PRISMA-compliant systematic search focusing on experimental studies of human lower-limb joint tissues, using a multi-criteria decision-making method to assess study quality and highlight findings from robust research approaches.

The review found that current research predominantly focuses on knee joints and articular cartilage, with limited studies on hip, ankle, and bone components, particularly subchondral bone. Compression and indentation testing are the most commonly used experimental methods, though no standardized testing protocols exist for OC tissues, and most studies examine individual tissue layers rather than the integrated OC unit response.

The authors conclude that future research should prioritize integrated approaches that simultaneously evaluate how multiple OC tissues work together, combining techniques like imaging, mechanical testing, and computational modeling, with the ultimate goal of developing non-invasive methods for clinical diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

OSTEOCHONDRAL FLUID TRANSPORT IN AN EX VIVO SYSTEM.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2024.02.946 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:08:47
This study investigated fluid transport between bone and cartilage, which may be disrupted in osteoarthritis development. Using bovine osteochondral cores in a two-chamber bioreactor system, researchers tested whether 3 kDa dextran tracers could move from bone to cartilage under different loading conditions (no load, preload only, or cyclic compression at 5% or 10% strain). The study successfully demonstrated that 3 kDa molecules can transport from bone to cartilage, representing larger molecules than previously shown to cross this tissue interface. Additionally, the magnitude of cyclic compression influenced the amount of tracer that reached the cartilage compartment, suggesting that mechanical loading affects osteochondral fluid transport.

THE CURRENT INSIGHTS OF MITOCHONDRIAL HORMESIS IN THE OCCURRENCE AND TREATMENT OF BONE AND CARTILAGE DEGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1186/s40659-024-00494-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:08:42
This review examines how mitochondrial hormesis (mitohormesis) could be leveraged to prevent and treat bone and cartilage degeneration in conditions like osteoarthritis, disc degeneration, and osteoporosis. The authors conducted a comprehensive literature review analyzing the molecular mechanisms of mitohormesis, which is a protective cellular response where low-dose stressors trigger mitochondrial adaptations through ROS generation, protein stress responses, mitochondrial dynamics, and cellular cleanup processes. The review identifies that mitochondrial dysfunction contributes significantly to musculoskeletal tissue degeneration through oxidative damage, but strategic activation of mitohormesis pathways can restore cellular health. The authors highlight promising therapeutic approaches including mechanical stimulation, dietary interventions, controlled hypoxia, and low-dose compounds that can trigger beneficial mitochondrial stress responses to protect bone and cartilage tissues.

CYCLIC COMPRESSIVE LOADING INDUCES A MATURE MENISCAL CELL PHENOTYPE IN MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS WITH AN ATELOCOLLAGEN-BASED SCAFFOLD.

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1394093 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:08:35
This study investigated how cyclic compressive loading (CCL) affects the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into meniscal cells when grown in a 3D atelocollagen-based scaffold. The researchers extracted MSCs from meniscus, synovium, and cartilage tissues, cultured them in the scaffold, applied mechanical compression for 7 days, and analyzed gene expression changes using RNA sequencing. The results showed that mechanical loading significantly altered gene expression patterns, upregulating key cartilage-related genes (SOX9, TGFB1, PRG4) and promoting MSC differentiation toward mature meniscal cells. These findings demonstrate that mechanical stimulation enhances meniscal tissue regeneration and provides important insights for developing scaffold-based treatments for meniscal repair.

A BIOMIMETIC LUBRICATING NANOSYSTEM FOR SYNERGISTIC THERAPY OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.06.009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:08:30
This study aimed to develop a biomimetic nanosystem that could simultaneously provide joint lubrication and anti-inflammatory effects for osteoarthritis treatment. The researchers created a core-shell nanostructure by grafting hyaluronic acid onto a metal organic framework using a dopamine-mediated strategy, inspired by both human synovial fluid and mussel adhesion mechanisms. The nanosystem demonstrated excellent performance, reducing friction coefficients by 75% over 7,200 cycles while maintaining stability, achieving 99% drug loading capacity, and responding to near-infrared light by heating to 55°C for controlled drug release. Cell experiments confirmed the system's anti-inflammatory effects, showing downregulation of cartilage-degrading enzymes and pain-related genes while promoting cartilage-building gene expression, suggesting this approach could offer a promising synergistic therapy for osteoarthritis.

PRG4-EXPRESSING CHONDROPROGENITOR CELLS IN THE SUPERFICIAL ZONE OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115605 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:08:23
This review examines PRG4-expressing chondroprogenitor cells located in the superficial zone of articular cartilage, which are important for joint health because they produce lubricin (a lubricating protein) and help maintain cartilage structure. The authors compiled findings from studies using genetic labeling technologies to track these cells and their descendants during joint development and cartilage injury. Key findings show that these PRG4-positive progenitor cells are essential for cartilage formation and maintenance, and their loss leads to cartilage degeneration, bone abnormalities, and abnormal bone formation. The review highlights the therapeutic potential of these cells for treating cartilage damage, given that cartilage has limited natural healing capacity.

METABOLOMIC PROFILING AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A NOVEL 3D CULTURE SYSTEM FOR STUDYING CHONDROCYTE MECHANOTRANSDUCTION.

DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.10.598340 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:08:18
This study aimed to develop an improved 3D culture system for investigating how cartilage cells (chondrocytes) respond to mechanical forces, specifically focusing on whether chondrocytes could develop their protective surrounding matrix (pericellular matrix or PCM) in culture. The researchers cultured human and bovine chondrocytes in alginate beads with vitamin C, then transferred them to stiff agarose gels for mechanical testing, using immunofluorescence, Western blots, and metabolomic profiling to analyze the results. They found that chondrocytes cultured in alginate beads for 7 days successfully developed a robust PCM containing key proteins (collagen VI and II) and maintained their cartilage cell characteristics. When these PCM-equipped cells were mechanically compressed in agarose, they showed distinct metabolic responses compared to cells without PCM, demonstrating that this new culture system better mimics natural cartilage conditions for studying how mechanical forces affect cartilage cell behavior.

MECHANICAL LOADING AND ORTHOBIOLOGIC THERAPIES IN THE TREATMENT OF POST-TRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS (PTOA): A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW.

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1401207 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:08:10
This comprehensive review examined how mechanical loading and orthobiologic therapies could work together to treat post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). The authors analyzed existing preclinical animal studies and human clinical trials focusing on orthobiologic treatments including platelet-rich plasma (PRP), bone marrow aspirate, and mesenchymal stem cells. The review found that dynamic mechanical loading (such as running) plays a crucial role in maintaining cartilage health by influencing how cartilage cells behave, and may enhance the effectiveness of orthobiologic treatments. The authors propose that combining mechanical loading with orthobiologic therapies could potentially slow or reverse PTOA progression, though optimal loading patterns for clinical use after joint injury still need to be determined.

METABOLIC PROFILES OF ENCAPSULATED CHONDROCYTES EXPOSED TO SHORT-TERM SIMULATED MICROGRAVITY.

DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.01.601604 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:08:04
This study investigated how reduced mechanical loading affects cartilage cells by examining the metabolic changes in human chondrocytes exposed to simulated microgravity conditions. The researchers encapsulated chondrocytes in agarose gel to mimic the natural cartilage environment and used a rotating wall vessel bioreactor to simulate microgravity conditions experienced during spaceflight. Metabolomic analysis identified 497 significantly altered metabolites, revealing changes in protein synthesis, energy metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, and oxidative processes in response to simulated microgravity. Importantly, these metabolic changes resembled patterns found in early osteoarthritis, suggesting that even short-term exposure to reduced mechanical loading (such as during spaceflight) may initiate processes that could lead to joint degeneration.

EFFECTIVENESS OF GELLAN GUM SCAFFOLDS LOADED WITH BOSWELLIA SERRATA EXTRACT FOR IN-SITU MODULATION OF PRO-INFLAMMATORY PATHWAYS AFFECTING CARTILAGE HEALING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134079 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:07:59
This study aimed to develop and test a gellan gum hydrogel scaffold loaded with Boswellia serrata extract (BSE) as a cartilage substitute that could reduce inflammation while promoting cartilage repair. The researchers incorporated BSE either directly into the hydrogel or loaded it into clay particles (LDH) to improve drug delivery and mechanical properties, then tested the materials using various analytical techniques and cultured human mesenchymal stem cells on the scaffolds. The BSE-loaded scaffolds successfully reduced key inflammatory markers (COX2, PGE2, IL1β) while enhancing cartilage-forming genes (collagen type 2 and aggrecan), with proteomics analysis confirming these anti-inflammatory effects. The results suggest these composite scaffolds could effectively control inflammation at the injury site while supporting cartilage healing, making them promising candidates for cartilage repair applications.

DEGRADATION OF LUBRICATING MOLECULES IN SYNOVIAL FLUID ALTERS CHONDROCYTE SENSITIVITY TO SHEAR STRAIN.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.25960 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:07:52
This study investigated how the degradation of lubricating molecules in synovial fluid affects cartilage cell responses to mechanical loading after injury. The researchers used an ex vivo model where cartilage explants were subjected to impact injury followed by continuous articulation in different lubricating baths: healthy synovial fluid, saline, or synovial fluid with degraded hyaluronic acid or lubricin (key lubricating molecules). They then measured cell death, cellular stress markers, and local shear strain patterns using fluorescent staining and confocal elastography. The results demonstrated that when hyaluronic acid or lubricin were degraded in synovial fluid, middle-zone cartilage cells experienced significantly more damage and higher shear strain loads, while also becoming more sensitive to mechanical loading, suggesting a direct link between synovial fluid quality and cartilage cell vulnerability to post-traumatic osteoarthritis development.

PLASTICITY COMPARISON OF TWO STEM CELL SOURCES WITH DIFFERENT HOX GENE EXPRESSION PROFILES IN RESPONSE TO COBALT CHLORIDE TREATMENT DURING CHONDROGENIC DIFFERENTIATION.

DOI: 10.3390/biology13080560 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:07:46
This study compared the chondrogenic (cartilage-forming) potential of two different stem cell sources with distinct HOX gene expression patterns: dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs, HOX-negative) and bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs, HOX-positive). The researchers differentiated both cell types into cartilage using 3D pellet cultures with a two-step protocol, testing the effects of cobalt chloride preconditioning (which mimics low oxygen conditions) through morphological, biochemical, and immunohistochemical analyses.

DPSCs showed superior chondrogenic differentiation after cobalt chloride treatment, producing significantly more collagen II and glycosaminoglycans (key cartilage components) while expressing less collagen X (a marker of undesirable hypertrophic cartilage). In contrast, BMSCs showed increased collagen II but also elevated collagen X levels, with no improvement in glycosaminoglycan production. The findings suggest that DPSCs' unique HOX-negative expression pattern contributes to better cartilage differentiation potential, making them promising candidates for cartilage regeneration therapies.

CARTILAGE INTEGRITY: A REVIEW OF MECHANICAL AND FRICTIONAL PROPERTIES AND REPAIR APPROACHES IN OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12161648 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:07:38
This review examines the mechanical and frictional properties of articular cartilage in osteoarthritis and evaluates cartilage repair approaches from a biomechanical perspective. The authors conducted a literature review focusing on how osteoarthritis affects cartilage structure and mechanical function, and analyzed the mechanical outcomes of various cartilage repair techniques as alternatives to total joint replacement. The study found that osteoarthritis causes significant changes to cartilage's macro- and microstructure, leading to increased friction and reduced load-bearing capacity that accelerates further tissue degradation. The review concludes that while numerous cartilage repair techniques have been developed, none have successfully restored the mechanical properties of native hyaline cartilage, highlighting the critical need to address biomechanical factors in addition to biological aspects of cartilage repair.

A MAJOR FUNCTIONAL ROLE OF SYNOVIAL FLUID IS TO REDUCE THE RATE OF CARTILAGE FATIGUE FAILURE UNDER CYCLICAL COMPRESSIVE LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2024.08.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:07:33
This study investigated whether synovial fluid protects articular cartilage from fatigue failure caused by repetitive compressive forces during joint movement. The researchers used a sliding contact test where a glass lens moved against bovine cartilage samples immersed in different concentrations of synovial fluid, PBS control solution, or diluted mixtures, measuring damage rates over 24-72 hours of cyclic loading (up to 16,200 cycles). The results showed that pure synovial fluid provided the best protection, with no samples damaged at 24 hours and only 2 of 8 samples damaged at 72 hours, while all PBS control samples failed within 24 hours. The findings demonstrate that synovial fluid concentration directly correlates with cartilage protection, with lower concentrations leading to progressively higher failure rates and surface roughness, supporting the hypothesis that a major function of synovial fluid is preventing cartilage fatigue damage from repetitive joint loading.

HYALURONIC ACID-BASED MICROPARTICLES WITH LUBRICATION AND ANTI-INFLAMMATION FOR ALLEVIATING TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.34133/bmr.0073 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:07:25
This study aimed to develop hyaluronic acid-based microparticles that could provide both lubrication and anti-inflammatory drug delivery for treating temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA). The researchers created these microparticles by chemically modifying hyaluronic acid with 3-aminophenylboronic acid, allowing the particles to self-assemble and encapsulate drugs through special chemical bonds. Laboratory testing showed the microparticles had excellent lubrication properties, could scavenge harmful free radicals, and protected cartilage cells from oxidative damage. In animal studies, injection of the drug-loaded microparticles into the joint effectively reduced bone damage, decreased inflammation, and promoted cartilage matrix regeneration, suggesting this approach could be a promising treatment for TMJOA.

ENGINEERING EXOSOMES DERIVED FROM TNF-Α PRECONDITIONED IPFP-MSCS ENHANCE BOTH YIELD AND THERAPEUTIC EFFICACY FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02795-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:07:20
This study investigated whether preconditioning mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from knee fat pads with TNF-α could improve exosome production and therapeutic effectiveness for osteoarthritis treatment. The researchers exposed infrapatellar fat pad MSCs to TNF-α, harvested the resulting exosomes, and tested them in an osteoarthritis mouse model using intra-articular injections, while analyzing molecular pathways through gene sequencing, protein analysis, and proteomics. TNF-α preconditioning significantly increased exosome production from MSCs by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway and upregulating autophagy proteins, and these enhanced exosomes showed superior joint protection in mice compared to regular MSC exosomes. The improved therapeutic effects were linked to increased levels of LRP1 protein in the preconditioned exosomes, which provided better cartilage protection.

HEAT CONDUCTION SIMULATION OF CHONDROCYTE-EMBEDDED AGAROSE GELS SUGGESTS NEGLIGIBLE IMPACT OF VISCOELASTIC DISSIPATION ON TEMPERATURE CHANGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.112307 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:07:13
This study aimed to determine the thermal properties of agarose hydrogels used in chondrocyte culture and assess whether mechanical loading could cause significant temperature changes that might affect cell behavior. The researchers measured thermal conductivity using a custom device based on ASTM C177 standards, determined specific heat capacity through differential scanning calorimetry, and calculated the free convection coefficient of phosphate-buffered saline using computational modeling combined with experimental data. They found that 4.5% agarose hydrogels have thermal properties (specific heat capacity: 2.85 J/g°C, thermal conductivity: 0.121 W/mK) similar to articular cartilage, and demonstrated that cyclical mechanical loading produces negligible temperature increases in these samples. These findings confirm that agarose hydrogels not only mimic the mechanical stiffness of cartilage but also its thermal behavior, making them suitable biomimetic materials for in vitro cartilage research without concerns about heat-induced artifacts from mechanical testing.

COLLAGEN-BASED 3D PRINTED POLY (GLYCEROL SEBACATE) COMPOSITE SCAFFOLD WITH BIOMIMICKING MECHANICAL PROPERTIES FOR ENHANCED CARTILAGE DEFECT REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.135827 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:07:06
This study aimed to develop an improved scaffold for cartilage repair by combining 3D-printed poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) with a collagen-hyaluronic acid matrix to mimic natural cartilage properties. The researchers created composite scaffolds with hierarchical pores and tested their mechanical properties, degradation rates, and biological performance using rat mesenchymal stem cells over 28 days. The composite scaffold achieved mechanical properties similar to native cartilage (167.0 kPa compressive modulus) with excellent fatigue resistance, while maintaining structural stability for 4 weeks before degrading in a controlled manner. Cell studies showed the scaffold enhanced cell attachment and viability, promoted effective conversion of stem cells into cartilage-producing cells, and stimulated abundant cartilage-like tissue formation, suggesting strong potential for clinical cartilage repair applications.

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES AND BIOCOMPATIBILITY CHARACTERIZATION OF 3D PRINTED COLLAGEN TYPE II/SILK FIBROIN/HYALURONIC ACID SCAFFOLD.

DOI: 10.1080/09205063.2024.2411797 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:07:00
This study evaluated a 3D printed scaffold made from collagen type II, silk fibroin, and hyaluronic acid (CSH) as a potential biomaterial for cartilage tissue engineering. The researchers characterized the scaffold's physical properties (porosity, pore structure, hydrophilicity), mechanical behavior (compressive strength and viscoelastic properties), and biological compatibility using chondrocyte cell cultures. The CSH scaffold demonstrated favorable characteristics including 85% porosity, good pore connectivity, appropriate mechanical properties (36.5 kPa compressive modulus), and excellent support for chondrocyte attachment and growth, particularly under dynamic loading conditions. The findings suggest this 3D printed CSH scaffold could serve as an effective biomaterial platform for articular cartilage regeneration applications.

CHANGES AND ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN SYNOVIAL FLUID AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING MARKERS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS AFTER HIGH TIBIAL OSTEOTOMY.

DOI: 10.1186/s13075-024-03409-3 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:06:54
This study investigated how high tibial osteotomy (HTO) surgery affects knee joint biology in patients with osteoarthritis by examining changes in synovial fluid biomarkers and MRI findings one year after surgery. The researchers analyzed synovial fluid samples and 3T MRI scans from 26 patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis before and after HTO, measuring multiple cytokines and growth factors while assessing joint inflammation and cartilage quality on imaging. One year after HTO surgery, patients showed reduced inflammatory signaling pathways (including decreased IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β), decreased joint effusion and inflammation on MRI, and improved cartilage T2 relaxation times indicating better cartilage composition. The findings suggest that correcting abnormal knee loading through HTO surgery leads to sustained improvements in joint inflammation and cartilage health, supporting the concept that mechanical factors play a crucial role in osteoarthritis progression and treatment.

POSITIVE IMPACT OF PYROCARBON AND MECHANICAL LOADING ON CARTILAGE-LIKE TISSUE SYNTHESIS IN A SCAFFOLD-FREE PROCESS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2024.09.005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:06:47
This study investigated whether combining pyrocarbon (PYC) biomaterial with mechanical loading could improve scaffold-free cartilage tissue engineering using mouse chondrocytes. The researchers cultured chondrocyte droplets between PYC surfaces and applied cyclic compression (0.5 Hz frequency, 100 μm amplitude) for 17 days using a custom bioreactor. The combination of PYC biomaterial and mechanical stimulation produced the best results, generating tissue constructs with cartilage-like matrix components (glycosaminoglycans, type II collagen, aggrecan) and mechanical properties similar to natural cartilage (low elasticity, high viscosity). Importantly, the engineered tissues showed no signs of unwanted calcium deposits or hypertrophic maturation, suggesting successful maintenance of the healthy chondrocyte phenotype.

COMPARISON OF SITE-SPECIFIC TENSILE, COMPRESSIVE, AND FRICTION PROPERTIES OF HUMAN TIBIOFEMORAL JOINT CARTILAGE AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO DEGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.112386 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:06:41
This study aimed to comprehensively characterize the tensile, compressive, and frictional properties of human knee cartilage across different joint surfaces and examine how these properties relate to cartilage degeneration. The researchers tested 155 tensile samples and 40 osteochondral plugs from 5 human tibiofemoral joints, measuring mechanical properties and grading cartilage health using the OARSI classification system. Key findings revealed distinct site-specific differences: the medial femur was more compliant in tension compared to the lateral femur, the lateral tibia had lower compressive stiffness than femoral surfaces, and the medial tibia showed higher initial friction than femoral condyles. While compressive properties worsened with increasing cartilage degeneration, tensile and friction properties showed no significant correlation with degeneration grade, suggesting these mechanical changes occur at different stages of cartilage breakdown.

WEIGHTLESSNESS DAMAGED THE ULTRASTRUCTURE OF KNEE CARTILAGE AND QUADRICEPS MUSCLE, AGGRAVATED THE DEGENERATION OF CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.21037/aoj-24-6 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:06:35
This study investigated how simulated weightlessness affects knee cartilage and quadriceps muscle structure in rats using a tail suspension model that mimics conditions in bedridden patients. The researchers used 30 rats (20 suspended, 10 controls) and employed multiple techniques including transmission electron microscopy, MRI T2 mapping, ELISA testing, and nanoindentation to examine changes at 14 and 28 days. The findings revealed progressive damage with weightlessness exposure: early mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum damage in both cartilage and muscle (day 14), followed by severe structural deterioration, increased joint inflammation, reduced cartilage elasticity and hardness, and decreased type II collagen-positive cells by day 28. The study demonstrates that weightlessness causes significant musculoskeletal deterioration through cellular damage mechanisms, leading to accelerated cartilage degeneration that worsens over time.

METABOLIC PROFILES OF ENCAPSULATED CHONDROCYTES EXPOSED TO SHORT-TERM SIMULATED MICROGRAVITY.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-024-03667-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:06:29
This study investigated how reduced mechanical loading from microgravity affects cartilage cell metabolism and osteoarthritis risk in astronauts. The researchers encapsulated human chondrocytes (cartilage cells) in agarose gel to mimic the natural cartilage environment, then exposed these constructs to simulated microgravity for four days using a rotating wall vessel bioreactor before analyzing metabolic changes with mass spectrometry. The analysis identified 497 significant metabolic changes out of 1,205 detected features, with key alterations in glutathione, nitrogen, histidine, vitamin B6, and sugar metabolism pathways related to protein synthesis, energy production, and oxidative stress. Importantly, these microgravity-induced metabolic changes closely resembled patterns previously observed in early osteoarthritis, suggesting that even short-term exposure to reduced mechanical loading may initiate osteoarthritic processes and could potentially be detected through synovial fluid analysis in astronauts.

MORPHOLOGY OF THE CALCANEOFIBULAR LIGAMENT REFLECTS DEGENERATION OF THE TALONAVICULAR ARTICULAR SURFACE: A CADAVER STUDY.

DOI: 10.3390/jcm13247565 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:06:22
This cadaver study investigated whether ankle ligament dimensions could predict cartilage degeneration in nearby joints. The researchers measured six different ankle ligaments in 50 feet from 45 Japanese cadavers and assessed whether talonavicular joint surfaces showed signs of degeneration through visual inspection. Only the width of the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) was significantly different between feet with and without talonavicular joint degeneration, with wider ligaments associated with cartilage damage. A CFL width greater than 8.7 mm could predict talonavicular joint degeneration with 75% sensitivity and 83% specificity, suggesting that ligament widening may occur as a compensatory response to joint deterioration.

A SHEAR-RESPONSIVE AND LUBRICATING HYALURONIC ACID-CHONDROITIN SULFATE-DECELLULARIZED MATRIX HYDROGEL FOR ARTICULAR CARTILAGE REGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.123171 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:06:17
This study aimed to develop an injectable hydrogel that could withstand the demanding mechanical environment of joints while promoting cartilage regeneration. The researchers created a dual-crosslinked hydrogel combining oxidized hyaluronic acid, modified hyaluronic acid, oxidized chondroitin sulfate, and decellularized cartilage matrix that forms through both dynamic and covalent crosslinking mechanisms. The hydrogel demonstrated excellent mechanical properties including self-healing ability, responsiveness to shear forces, and lubrication characteristics that mimic natural cartilage behavior. Animal testing showed the material successfully promoted cartilage repair with lubrication properties nearly equivalent to healthy cartilage, while also showing good biocompatibility and ability to support cell migration and stem cell differentiation.

IMPLANTATION OF HEPARIN-CONJUGATED FIBRIN HYDROGEL FOR LOCAL DEFECTS OF CARTILAGE IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A CASE REPORT.

DOI: 10.2147/IMCRJ.S483485 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:06:11
This case report evaluated the effectiveness of heparin-conjugated fibrin hydrogel implantation for treating localized cartilage defects in knee osteoarthritis. The researchers followed a 46-year-old male patient for one year after hydrogel implantation, monitoring outcomes through functional tests, MRI imaging, and adverse event assessment. The study found that the hydrogel successfully integrated into the defect site and promoted formation of hyaline-like cartilage tissue, leading to improved knee cartilage condition. MRI comparisons between pre-treatment and one-year post-surgery confirmed the effectiveness of this regenerative treatment approach.

FRICTION OF OSTEOARTHRITIC CARTILAGE WITH PATIENT-SPECIFIC SYNOVIAL FLUID: EFFECT OF DIFFERENT LOADING CONDITIONS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ocarto.2025.100568 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:06:06
This study aimed to measure friction coefficients in osteoarthritic cartilage using patient-specific synovial fluid under different loading conditions to identify which conditions produce the highest friction. The researchers tested cartilage samples from six knee replacement patients using a specialized friction testing device, applying four different loading patterns that mimic daily activities like walking. The key finding was that stance phase loading (when weight is on the leg during walking) initially produced the lowest friction but showed the largest increase over time (+276%), while swing phase loading (when the leg moves forward) maintained consistently low friction. Despite the diseased state of the cartilage and synovial fluid, the lubrication system still provided effective friction reduction, suggesting that osteoarthritic synovial fluid retains some protective properties.

DYNAMIC COMPRESSION MODULATES ANABOLIC AND CATABOLIC ACTIVITY IN CHONDROCYTE SEEDED AGAROSE CONSTRUCTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2025.112598 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:06:00
This study investigated how different levels of mechanical compression affect both tissue-building (anabolic) and tissue-breakdown (catabolic) processes in cartilage cells grown in laboratory constructs. The researchers embedded bovine cartilage cells in agarose gel and applied varying levels of dynamic compression (0-15% strain) for different durations, then measured anabolic activity using radioactive tracers and catabolic activity through enzyme levels. The key finding was that low-to-moderate compression (2.5-5% strain) promoted beneficial tissue growth with minimal breakdown, while high compression (15% strain) caused harmful effects by reducing tissue synthesis and increasing destructive enzyme activity. This research highlights the importance of optimizing mechanical loading parameters in cartilage tissue engineering, as the amount of compression can determine whether the response helps or hinders cartilage development.

CORRECTION: INTENSITY-DEPENDENT EFFECT OF TREADMILL RUNNING ON LUBRICIN METABOLISM OF RAT ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1186/s13075-025-03521-y · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:05:53
I'm unable to provide a summary of this research as the abstract is not available (marked as "NA"). The title indicates this is a correction to a study that examined how different intensities of treadmill running affect lubricin metabolism in rat knee cartilage. Lubricin is an important protein that helps lubricate joints during movement. To provide an accurate summary of the study's objectives, methods, and findings, I would need access to the actual abstract or full correction text. If you can provide the abstract content, I'd be happy to create the requested summary for clinicians and researchers.

EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF INTRA-ARTICULAR THERAPY WITH CROSS-LINKED HYALURONIC ACID IN PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.3390/ph18030302 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:05:48
This study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of a single injection of cross-linked high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (90 mg) for treating knee osteoarthritis. The researchers conducted a prospective observational study with 50 patients aged 18-65, measuring various clinical outcomes including knee function, pain, mobility, and psychological well-being at 3, 6, and 12 months post-injection. Results showed statistically significant improvements in clinical scores at 3 and 6 months, with benefits declining by 12 months, while functional and psychological improvements remained significant throughout the entire follow-up period. The treatment was well-tolerated with only injection site pain reported as a side effect, supporting its use as an effective option for managing mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis.

CROSSLINKING SUBSTRATE REGULATES FRICTIONAL PROPERTIES OF TISSUE-ENGINEERED CARTILAGE AND CHONDROCYTE RESPONSE TO LOADING.

DOI: 10.1038/s43246-025-00781-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:05:42
This study investigated how the substrate used during hydrogel formation affects the frictional properties of tissue-engineered cartilage and chondrocyte behavior under mechanical loading. The researchers photocrosslinked gelatin methacryloyl and hyaluronic acid methacrylate hydrogels on different substrates (hydrophobic polytetrafluoroethylene versus glass) and tested their tribological properties and cellular responses to biaxial loading that mimics joint movement. Hydrogels formed on hydrophobic substrates showed significantly lower friction coefficients, better self-lubrication through water exudation, and reduced crosslinking density compared to those formed on glass. When chondrocyte-laden low-friction hydrogels were subjected to mechanical loading, they developed superior hyaline cartilage tissue, demonstrating that substrate choice during hydrogel crosslinking is crucial for optimizing cartilage regeneration outcomes.

EXPRESSION OF MIR-92A IN GREEN TEA EGCG PRECONDITIONED ADIPOSEDERIVED STEM CELLS AMELIORATES INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE AND INCREASES CARTILAGE REGENERATION IN RA RATS THROUGH KLF4/IL-17/MMP-2 AXIS MODULATION.

DOI: 10.2174/0115665232339721250313075146 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:05:36
This study investigated whether preconditioning adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) with green tea compound EGCG or microRNA-92a could enhance their therapeutic effectiveness for treating rheumatoid arthritis compared to standard ADSCs.

Researchers used both laboratory cell studies and a rat model of arthritis, testing different treatment groups including untreated rats, arthritis-only rats, and rats receiving various types of preconditioned or standard ADSCs.

The results showed that preconditioning ADSCs with either EGCG or microRNA-92a significantly improved joint swelling, bone health, immune infiltration, and cartilage damage compared to standard ADSC treatment, with these benefits working through a specific molecular pathway (KLF4/IL-17/MMP-2). These preconditioned stem cells demonstrated superior anti-inflammatory and cartilage repair effects, suggesting they could offer a promising enhanced stem cell therapy approach for rheumatoid arthritis treatment.

THREE-DIMENSIONAL BIOPRINTING OF GROWTH DIFFERENTIATION FACTOR 5-PRECONDITIONED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELL-DERIVED EXOSOMES FACILITATES ARTICULAR CARTILAGE ENDOGENOUS REGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c13492 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:05:29
This study aimed to develop a cell-free approach for articular cartilage repair using engineered exosomes delivered via 3D bioprinted scaffolds. The researchers preconditioned synovial mesenchymal stem cells with growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF-5) to produce enhanced exosomes (G-exos), which were then incorporated into glycyrrhizic acid/hyaluronic acid scaffolds using digital light processing bioprinting. The GDF-5 preconditioning enriched the exosomes with miR-383-3p, which promoted cartilage formation by activating the KDM2A/SOX2 signaling pathway in target cells. In rat studies, the bioprinted scaffolds containing G-exos significantly enhanced cartilage regeneration and improved the joint cavity microenvironment compared to controls, offering a promising cell-free therapeutic strategy for cartilage defect repair.

GLUCOSAMINE SULPHATE ENDORSED IBUPROFEN NANOCRYSTALS BURDENED POLYMERIC GEL DEMONSTRATED MULTIDIMENSIONAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND CARTILAGE PROTECTIVE POTENTIAL IN EXPERIMENTAL KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: IN VITRO AND IN VIVO STUDIES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2025.125660 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:05:23
This study investigated whether a topical gel containing ibuprofen nanocrystals combined with glucosamine sulfate could provide anti-inflammatory and cartilage-protective effects in knee osteoarthritis. Researchers developed the nanocrystal gel formulation and tested it using skin permeation studies, followed by evaluation in a rat model of osteoarthritis through X-rays, tissue analysis, and molecular markers. The nanocrystal gel showed 1.87-fold better skin penetration compared to regular ibuprofen gel and demonstrated significant improvements in cartilage regeneration, reduced osteophyte formation, and restoration of cartilage thickness and glycosaminoglycan levels. Additionally, the treatment substantially reduced key inflammatory markers (COX-2, TNF-α, IL-1β) and collagen degradation markers, suggesting this combination approach could offer a promising topical treatment for knee osteoarthritis.

ELEVATED CONTACT STRESSES COMPROMISE ACTIVITY-MEDIATED CARTILAGE REHYDRATION BUT NOT LUBRICATION.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-025-03708-z · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:05:17
This study investigated how elevated contact stresses (simulating obesity-related joint loading) affect cartilage's ability to recover fluid during movement and maintain proper lubrication. The researchers used a specialized testing system (CSCA) to apply different contact stress levels (0.2-0.8 MPa) to sheep knee cartilage samples while measuring fluid recovery during sliding motion and friction coefficients.

The key findings showed that higher contact stresses significantly impaired the cartilage's ability to rehydrate (recover fluid) during movement, leading to greater tissue compression over time. However, surprisingly, the elevated contact stresses did not affect cartilage's excellent lubricating properties within the tested range.

These results suggest that obesity likely compromises cartilage function primarily through increased tissue compression and strain rather than through poor lubrication, providing new insights into how excess body weight may contribute to osteoarthritis development.

FROM FLUCTUATIONS TO STABILITY: IN-SITU CHONDROCYTE RESPONSE TO CYCLIC COMPRESSIVE LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2025.112734 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:05:09
This study investigated how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) respond in real-time to repeated mechanical compression, addressing a gap in understanding due to previous technical limitations in capturing live cellular responses during loading. The researchers used high-speed imaging to measure changes in cell volume, shape, and surface area at peak stress and relaxation points during cyclic compression of cartilage tissue. Key findings showed that chondrocyte volume initially fluctuated dramatically during the first 20 loading cycles (increasing up to 4% under load, decreasing up to 8% during unloading), but these fluctuations stabilized and returned to baseline after approximately 100 cycles. The study revealed that cells primarily changed in width and depth rather than height, with surface area changes being smaller than volume changes, suggesting protective mechanisms against cell membrane damage during mechanical stress.

LOAD ACTIVATED FGFR AND BETA1 INTEGRINS TARGET DISTINCT CHONDROCYTE MECHANO-RESPONSE GENES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2025.05.002 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:05:03
This study investigated whether different cell surface receptors activated during mechanical loading of cartilage cells (chondrocytes) control the same or distinct sets of genes in response to mechanical stimuli. The researchers used tissue-engineered cartilage made from mouse and human chondrocytes, applied dynamic compression, and tested the effects of blocking FGFR signaling or using cells lacking β1 integrins. They found that load-activated FGFR and β1 integrin receptors target distinct subsets of mechano-response genes—FGFR signaling controlled genes like FOSL1, ITGA5, NGF, TIMP1, BMP2, PTGS2, and DUSP5 (depending on species and developmental stage), while β1 integrins specifically regulated INHBA expression. This discovery that different mechanical sensors control unique gene programs could enable targeted pharmacological approaches to modify how cartilage cells respond to loading, with potential applications for osteoarthritis treatment and cartilage repair strategies.

AN OSTEOCHONDRAL TISSUE-MIMICKING HYDROGEL-SCAFFOLD DI-BLOCK PATCH FOR RAPID REPAIR OF FOCAL LOAD-BEARING CARTILAGE LESIONS.

DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202500253 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:04:56
This study aimed to develop a synthetic patch that could rapidly repair focal cartilage lesions in load-bearing joints to prevent progressive cartilage degeneration. The researchers created a two-layer (di-block) patch combining a hydrogel layer that mimics cartilage mechanical properties with a porous titanium scaffold layer that integrates with underlying bone, then tested it in rabbit and canine models compared to a control patch made of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The hydrogel-titanium (Gel-Ti) patch successfully restored load-bearing function and promoted cartilage repair, while the UHMWPE control patch caused progressive cartilage destruction. The Gel-Ti patch demonstrated protective effects on surrounding cartilage, maintained its mechanical properties over time, and showed good long-term safety, offering a promising approach for treating focal cartilage defects before they progress to widespread joint damage.

DESIGN AND EVALUATION OF A CROSSLINKED CHITOSAN-BASED SCAFFOLD CONTAINING HYALURONIC ACID FOR ARTICULAR CARTILAGE RECONSTRUCTION.

DOI: 10.3390/molecules30102202 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:04:50
This study aimed to develop and evaluate crosslinked chitosan-based scaffolds containing hyaluronic acid for articular cartilage reconstruction applications. The researchers created freeze-dried, porous scaffolds by crosslinking chitosan and hyaluronic acid with oxidized maltodextrin, then comprehensively tested their physical, mechanical, and biological properties using techniques including swelling studies, degradation tests, mechanical analysis, and cytotoxicity assays. The crosslinked scaffolds demonstrated improved mechanical stiffness, reduced swelling, and slower degradation rates compared to non-crosslinked versions, confirming that oxidized maltodextrin was an effective crosslinking agent. The scaffolds also showed promising drug delivery capabilities, no cytotoxicity, and overall enhanced stability and functionality, making them potentially suitable candidates for cartilage tissue engineering applications.

AN ORGAN-ON-CHIP PLATFORM FOR STRAIN-CONTROLLED, TISSUE-SPECIFIC COMPRESSION OF CARTILAGE AND MINERALIZED OSTEOCHONDRAL INTERFACE TO STUDY MECHANICAL OVERLOADING IN OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202501588 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:04:44
This study developed an organ-on-chip platform to investigate how excessive mechanical loading contributes to osteoarthritis by recreating the natural strain gradients across cartilage and underlying bone tissue. The researchers engineered composite microtissues containing both cartilage and mineralized subchondral layers, then applied controlled compression forces that mimic tissue-specific loading patterns found in human joints, followed by single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze cellular responses.

Key findings showed that excessive loading increased calcium crystal release (similar to what occurs in osteoarthritis patients) and revealed how the mineralized layer supports specific cartilage cell populations involved in disease progression. The platform successfully captured clinically relevant changes in cellular pathways related to protein production and cell death, demonstrating its potential as a human model for studying early osteoarthritis mechanisms and identifying new therapeutic targets.

THE EFFICACY OF MICROFRACTURE COMBINED WITH EXTRACORPOREAL SHOCK WAVE THERAPY AND HYALURONIC ACID INJECTIONS FOR TREATING OSTEOCHONDRAL LESION OF THE TALUS AND ITS IMPACT ON EARLY REHABILITATION: A RETROSPECTIVE CASE STUDY.

DOI: 10.1053/j.jfas.2025.05.020 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:04:37
This retrospective study examined whether combining extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) with hyaluronic acid (HA) injections could improve outcomes for patients experiencing pain after microfracture surgery for small osteochondral lesions of the ankle bone (talus). The researchers treated 42 patients who developed walking pain 4-8 weeks post-surgery with five weekly sessions of ESWT followed by HA injections, then assessed pain (VAS scores) and ankle function (AOFAS scores) before treatment, six weeks after completion, and at final follow-up. Results showed significant improvements in both pain (from 7.16 to 2.11 on the VAS scale) and ankle function scores (from 67.78 to 93.54 on the AOFAS scale), with similar benefits regardless of when post-surgical pain began. The combination therapy appears to effectively reduce post-microfracture pain and accelerate recovery of ankle function.

JUST A BREATH AWAY: CONSIDERATIONS FOR OXYGEN IMBALANCES IN OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2025.2530013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:04:30
This mini-review examines how oxygen imbalances contribute to osteoarthritis (OA) progression and explores potential therapeutic strategies targeting joint oxygen environments. The authors synthesized current literature on oxygen dynamics in cartilage, focusing on the mechanisms by which disrupted oxygen gradients affect chondrocyte function and cartilage health in both age-related and post-traumatic OA. The review identifies that oxygen dysregulation impairs chondrocyte metabolism, increases harmful reactive oxygen species production, and disrupts key cellular signaling pathways (HIF-1α), all contributing to cartilage breakdown. The authors highlight promising therapeutic approaches including oxygen-sensing nanoparticles, ROS-responsive scaffolds, and oxygen-generating biomaterials that could enable stage-specific treatments by restoring proper oxygen balance in joint tissues.

COMPARATIVE EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF TWO DIFFERENT FORMULATIONS OF LINEAR HYALURONIC ACID IN PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.3390/ph18071065 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:04:24
This prospective observational study compared two different linear hyaluronic acid (HA) formulations for treating knee osteoarthritis in 70 patients over a 6-month follow-up period. Patients received three intra-articular injections and were assessed using multiple outcome measures including knee function (KOOS), pain scores (VAS), mobility tests, and quality of life questionnaires at 3 and 6 months post-treatment. Both HA formulations (Hyalubrix 30 mg/2 mL and Diart 1.8%/2 mL) showed statistically significant improvements in clinical scores at 3 months compared to controls, with no significant side effects reported. The study concluded that both HA formulations are safe and effective treatment options for knee osteoarthritis, providing benefits for pain relief, functional improvement, and emotional well-being.

INSIGHTS INTO THE DYSFUNCTIONAL COMMUNICATION SWITCHES TARGETING OSTEOCYTE MECHANOTRANSDUCTION AND LACUNAR-CANALICULAR GENE NETWORK IN PATHOGENESIS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1002/jgm.70031 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:04:19
This review examines how dysfunction in osteocytes (bone cells) and their communication networks contributes to osteoarthritis development and progression. The authors analyzed current literature on osteocyte mechanotransduction (how cells sense and respond to mechanical forces) and the lacunar-canalicular system - the tiny channels through which osteocytes communicate within subchondral bone. Key findings reveal that disrupted osteocyte communication impairs the bone's ability to adapt to mechanical loading, potentially initiating or worsening osteoarthritis, with specific genes like KINDLIN-2, PIEZO1, and NETRIN-1 identified as promising therapeutic targets. The review proposes that targeting these osteocyte communication pathways using advanced approaches combining mechanobiology, RNA-based therapies, and nanotechnology could lead to more effective osteoarthritis treatments.

LUBRICATING NANO/MICRO PARTICLES FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS THERAPY.

DOI: 10.1039/d5mh01105a · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:04:13
This review examined the development of lubricating nano/micro particles as a potential therapy for osteoarthritis (OA), focusing on how to restore the lubrication function that fails when cartilage degenerates. The authors analyzed the pathological mechanisms behind lubrication failure in OA and reviewed current clinical interventions, with particular emphasis on natural biological lubricants and recent advances in particle-based treatments. Key findings highlight that OA involves a cycle where cartilage damage leads to inflammatory changes in synovial fluid composition, which reduces lubrication and increases joint friction, further accelerating cartilage breakdown. The review concludes that rational design of lubricating nano/micro particles—considering factors like material selection, particle characteristics, surface modifications, and drug delivery integration—offers promising new approaches for OA treatment by directly addressing the underlying lubrication failure.

Β-SITOSTEROL PRECONDITIONING ENHANCES THE RESISTANCE OF BMSCS AND CHONDROCYTE TO OXIDATIVE STRESS AND PROMOTES CARTILAGE REPAIR IN OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1186/s13287-025-04613-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:04:07
This study investigated whether β-sitosterol preconditioning could improve the therapeutic potential of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) for osteoarthritis treatment by enhancing their resistance to oxidative stress. The researchers tested β-sitosterol's effects on BMSCs and chondrocytes in laboratory conditions, measuring cell survival, gene expression, oxidative stress markers, and mitochondrial function, then evaluated cartilage repair in a rabbit osteoarthritis model using histological analysis. β-sitosterol significantly improved BMSC survival, increased expression of cartilage-building genes (COL2A1 and aggrecan) while reducing cartilage-degrading enzyme (MMP13), and protected against oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction. BMSCs pretreated with β-sitosterol showed enhanced ability to promote cartilage regeneration in the animal model, suggesting this compound could improve stem cell-based therapies for osteoarthritis.

PLATELET-RICH PLASMA ENHANCES LOCAL HOMING OF UMBILICAL CORD-DERIVED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS TO ARTICULAR CARTILAGE BY INCREASING THE QUANTITY AND ACTIVATION OF INTEGRIN Ꞵ1.

DOI: 10.1186/s13287-025-04593-y · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:04:00
This study investigated whether platelet-rich plasma (PRP) pre-conditioning could improve the ability of umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) to adhere to damaged cartilage and enhance cartilage repair. The researchers used in vitro adhesion assays to test MSC binding to cartilage components, analyzed integrin β1 expression and activation, and evaluated cartilage healing in a rat osteochondral defect model over 4 weeks. PRP pre-conditioning significantly increased MSC adhesion to cartilage matrix components by 4.1-fold compared to controls, primarily through increased quantity and activation of integrin β1, a key cell adhesion protein. In the animal model, combining UC-MSCs with PRP resulted in superior cartilage repair scores compared to MSCs alone, suggesting that PRP enhances the therapeutic potential of stem cell therapy by improving cell engraftment at the injury site.

MXENE-MEDIATED NANOCARRIER DELIVERY ENHANCES THE CHONDROPROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF QUERCETIN IN EXPERIMENTAL OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.2147/IJN.S540035 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:03:54
This study investigated whether MXene nanosheets could improve the delivery and therapeutic effects of quercetin, a natural compound with cartilage-protective properties, for osteoarthritis treatment. The researchers loaded quercetin onto porous Ti₃C₂Tₓ MXene nanosheets and tested the system both in IL-1β-stimulated mouse cartilage cells and in a surgical mouse model of osteoarthritis using intra-articular injections. The MXene-delivered quercetin showed significantly enhanced protective effects compared to free quercetin, including better cell survival, reduced cell death, decreased oxidative stress, and prevention of ferroptosis (a type of cell death) in cultured cells. In the mouse osteoarthritis model, the MXene-quercetin treatment more effectively preserved cartilage structure and prevented cartilage cell death than quercetin alone, suggesting this nanotechnology approach could improve osteoarthritis therapy.

CYTOKINE-ACTIVATED MESENCHYMAL-STEM-CELL-DERIVED EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX FACILITATES CARTILAGE REPAIR BY ENHANCING CHONDROCYTE HOMEOSTASIS AND CHONDROGENESIS OF RECRUITED STEM CELLS.

DOI: 10.34133/research.0700 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:03:47
This study aimed to develop an improved extracellular matrix (ECM) for cartilage repair by preconditioning mesenchymal stem cells with inflammatory cytokines before harvesting their ECM. The researchers tested three inflammatory factors (interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interferon gamma) and evaluated the resulting ECM materials in laboratory experiments. The key finding was that interferon gamma-preconditioned ECM (IFN-γ-ECM) was most effective, supporting cartilage cell survival by restoring their energy metabolism and promoting the recruitment and conversion of stem cells into cartilage cells through specific molecular pathways. This cytokine-activated ECM approach offers a promising new strategy for cartilage repair that could avoid complications associated with current treatment methods.

TIME-DEPENDENT COMPUTATIONAL MODEL OF POST-TRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS TO ESTIMATE HOW MECHANOINFLAMMATORY MECHANISMS IMPACT CARTILAGE AGGRECAN CONTENT.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1013641 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:03:41
This study aimed to understand how mechanical and inflammatory mechanisms drive cartilage degradation after joint injury by developing computational models to predict aggrecan loss in post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The researchers created computer models of cartilage that incorporated strain-induced cell damage, enzyme release, fluid flow effects, and aggrecan production, then validated these models against experiments using bovine knee cartilage subjected to injurious overloading followed by physiological cyclic loading. The models successfully matched experimental data and revealed that areas near cartilage lesions experienced 14% greater aggrecan loss after 12 days of normal loading compared to unloaded conditions, with this loss driven primarily by fluid flow and destructive enzyme activity. Importantly, the models also showed protective responses in deeper cartilage layers, where increased aggrecan production occurred despite damage at the surface, providing new insights that could guide personalized rehabilitation and treatment strategies.

NMN-PRIMED EXOSOMES DERIVED FROM INFRAPATELLAR FAT PAD MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS EXERT SYNERGISTIC ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND CARTILAGE-PROTECTIVE EFFECTS VIA MERTK PATHWAY ACTIVATION IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2025.126367 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:03:34
This study investigated whether exosomes from infrapatellar fat pad stem cells could be enhanced with nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) priming to create a more effective treatment for knee osteoarthritis. The researchers tested these enhanced exosomes (called EXO^NMN) in laboratory cultures of human cartilage cells and in a mouse model of osteoarthritis, using various molecular and imaging techniques to assess their effects.

The NMN-primed exosomes significantly improved cartilage cell survival and function while reducing harmful inflammatory factors and oxidative stress by approximately 50-60%. In mice with induced osteoarthritis, the enhanced exosomes preserved cartilage structure, reduced joint inflammation, and decreased key inflammatory markers without causing side effects.

The therapeutic effects worked through activation of a specific cellular pathway (GAS6-MERTK-PI3K/AKT), suggesting these enhanced exosomes could serve as a targeted, disease-modifying treatment for osteoarthritis.

PASSIVE HYDROTHERAPY PRESERVES CARTILAGE AND MUSCLE INTEGRITY IN A MURINE OSTEOARTHRITIS MODEL: POTENTIAL ROLE OF INTEGRIN ΑV/TGF-Β MECHANOTRANSDUCTION.

DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2025.1633618 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:03:26
This study investigated whether passive hydrotherapy (water-based therapy without active swimming) could protect joints as effectively as swimming in a mouse model of osteoarthritis. Researchers induced osteoarthritis in mice using knee surgery, then compared groups receiving hydrotherapy, swimming, or no treatment over 4-8 weeks, analyzing joint tissues and protein expression patterns. Both hydrotherapy and swimming successfully preserved cartilage structure and prevented muscle wasting, though neither intervention prevented bone deterioration beneath the cartilage. The protective effects appeared to involve reduced mechanical stress on joints during water exposure and changes in cellular signaling pathways (integrin αV and TGF-β), suggesting hydrotherapy could be a valuable low-impact treatment option for osteoarthritis patients who cannot perform traditional exercise.

POTENTIAL OF HUMAN AMNIOTIC MEMBRANE APPLICATION FOR ARTICULAR CARTILAGE REGENERATION: A REVIEW.

DOI: 10.1007/s10561-025-10202-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:03:20
This review examined the potential of human amniotic membrane as a therapeutic option for articular cartilage regeneration, addressing a critical challenge in musculoskeletal medicine. The authors analyzed the structure and properties of amniotic membrane, its processing methods (including decellularization), and various application forms such as sheets, injectable preparations, and 3D scaffolds. The review identified key beneficial properties of amniotic membrane including low immune rejection, anti-inflammatory effects, ability to carry cells, growth factor expression, and cartilage-protective qualities. The findings suggest that amniotic membrane represents a promising natural biomaterial for tissue engineering approaches to cartilage repair, supported by evidence from clinical trials.

METABOLOMIC PROFILING AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A NOVEL 3D CULTURE SYSTEM FOR STUDYING CHONDROCYTE MECHANOTRANSDUCTION.

DOI: 10.1007/s12195-025-00872-z · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:03:15
This study aimed to develop an improved 3D culture system for studying how cartilage cells (chondrocytes) respond to mechanical forces, specifically by creating conditions where cells develop their natural protective matrix layer. The researchers cultured human and bovine chondrocytes in alginate beads with vitamin C for 7 days to promote pericellular matrix (PCM) formation, then transferred them to physiologically stiff agarose gels and applied mechanical compression while analyzing metabolic changes. The key finding was that chondrocytes pre-cultured in alginate successfully developed a robust PCM containing key proteins (collagen VI and II) and maintained their cartilage cell characteristics, unlike standard monolayer cultures. This novel two-step culture approach provides a more physiologically relevant model for studying mechanotransduction in cartilage, as evidenced by distinct metabolic responses to compression that better mimic in vivo conditions.

EXERCISE-DEPENDENT EFFECTS OF SUBSTANCE P DEFICIENCY ON JOINT DEGENERATION AND INFLAMMATION IN A SURGICAL MOUSE MODEL OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1186/s13075-025-03693-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:03:07
This study investigated how substance P (SP) deficiency and exercise intensity interact to influence osteoarthritis progression in mice with surgically induced joint damage. Researchers compared wild-type and SP-deficient mice subjected to moderate or intense treadmill exercise for eight weeks after destabilization of the medial meniscus surgery, using histological scoring, atomic force microscopy, high-resolution imaging, and serum analysis to assess joint changes.

The key finding was that SP-deficient mice undergoing intense exercise maintained normal cartilage stiffness and structure, unlike other groups that developed cartilage degeneration. However, SP deficiency also caused unwanted effects including meniscal ossification, subchondral bone thickening, and elevated inflammatory markers in blood.

The results suggest SP has dual roles in osteoarthritis - its absence may protect cartilage from mechanical stress but promotes harmful bone changes and systemic inflammation, positioning SP as a potential therapeutic target that requires careful consideration of these competing effects.

AN MRNA MICROSPHERE VACCINE INHIBITING OVERACTIVATION OF DNA SENSING MECHANISMS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2025.11.016 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:03:00
This study aimed to develop a novel mRNA microsphere vaccine to treat elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis by reducing excessive DNA sensing that drives inflammatory aging. The researchers created a dual-component delivery system using microfluidic technology, combining TREX1 mRNA-loaded lipid nanoparticles with DNase I-loaded polydopamine nanoparticles, all encapsulated within hyaluronic acid microspheres for sustained release. The vaccine successfully increased TREX1 enzyme expression, reduced harmful cytoplasmic DNA accumulation, and suppressed overactive DNA-sensing pathways that trigger inflammation. In aged rats with rheumatoid arthritis, the treatment significantly reduced joint swelling, inflammation, and cartilage/bone damage, suggesting this approach could offer a promising new strategy for managing age-related inflammatory joint disease.

GAIT ALTERATIONS INCREASE FRICTION OF DEGENERATED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: A TRIBOLOGICAL STUDY.

DOI: 10.1002/ksa.70225 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:02:53
This study investigated how gait changes in osteoarthritis (OA) affect friction in articular cartilage. The researchers tested 48 porcine cartilage samples across four groups (healthy controls and two OA models with different types of cartilage damage) using a tribometer that applied four different gait patterns: normal gait, reduced walking speed, altered loading, and OA-specific gait combining both alterations.

In healthy cartilage, all gait patterns produced similar friction levels, but in degenerated cartilage, the OA-specific gait pattern significantly increased friction coefficients compared to normal gait. The findings suggest that the combination of altered loading and slower walking speed characteristic of OA gait disrupts normal cartilage lubrication mechanisms, potentially contributing to disease progression and supporting the potential value of gait retraining in OA management.

INTERVERTEBRAL DISC PROTEOGLYCANS: MULTIFUNCTIONAL TISSUE STABILIZING AND INSTRUCTIONAL CELL REGULATORY PROTEINS THAT CONTROL TISSUE HOMEOSTASIS.

DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.70145 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:02:47
This review examines the diverse roles of proteoglycans (PGs) in intervertebral disc structure and function, with particular focus on three recently identified PGs and their potential therapeutic applications. The authors conducted a comprehensive analysis of 19 identified IVD proteoglycans, examining their structural properties, cellular regulatory functions, and contributions to tissue homeostasis. The study highlights that while aggrecan provides weight-bearing properties and small leucine-rich PGs organize collagen assembly, three PGs have especially important functions: perlecan stabilizes tissue and promotes cell communication during development and repair, bikunin protects tissue and aids hyaluronan stabilization, and lubricin likely lubricates collagen fibers during spinal movement while potentially regulating inflammation. The research suggests that PG fragments generated during normal tissue breakdown may have bioactive properties useful for developing new disc repair and regenerative therapies.

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DOI: 10.1039/d5tb02142a · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:02:40
This study aimed to develop a novel delivery system to improve stem cell-based cartilage repair by preventing the common problems of hypertrophy and fibrosis that limit therapeutic outcomes. The researchers created ETK, a dual-factor delivery system using elastin-like protein (ELP) to co-deliver TGF-β1 and kartogenin (KGN), and tested its effects on stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) both in laboratory cultures and in vivo experiments. The system successfully formed nanoparticles that enhanced stem cell proliferation and cartilage formation while significantly reducing expression of type X collagen, a marker of unwanted cartilage hypertrophy. When combined with a biocompatible hydrogel scaffold, the ETK system effectively promoted new cartilage formation and prevented hypertrophy in animal models, demonstrating its potential as an improved approach for cartilage tissue engineering.

INNOVATIONS IN COLLAGEN-NETWORK REMODELING AND EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX MECHANICS: TOWARD A NEW ERA IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE REPAIR.

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2025.1740135 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:02:33
This review examines recent advances in understanding articular cartilage structure and developing new repair strategies, focusing on the extracellular matrix (ECM) and collagen organization that enable cartilage to withstand joint stresses. The authors synthesized current literature on cartilage biomechanics, collagen remodeling processes, and emerging biomaterial technologies designed to mimic native cartilage properties. Key findings include the identification of type III collagen as an important regulator of early cartilage remodeling and potential biomarker for osteoarthritis progression, along with new insights into how mechanical loading and enzyme activity together affect collagen breakdown in disease. The review highlights promising next-generation biomaterials such as viscoelastic hydrogels and anisotropic scaffolds that better replicate the complex mechanical properties of natural cartilage for improved repair outcomes.

MESOPOROUS SILICA NANOPARTICLES WITH DUAL FUNCTION OF ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND LUBRICATION FOR RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS TREATMENT.

DOI: 10.2174/0115672018387431251127045211 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:02:26
This study aimed to develop a dual-function nanosystem combining anti-inflammatory and joint lubrication properties for rheumatoid arthritis treatment. The researchers created mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with the anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac and coated with hyaluronic acid for lubrication (MSN@DCF-HA), then tested the system's drug release properties, biocompatibility, and therapeutic effects in a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis. The nanoparticles showed sustained drug release in acidic conditions and demonstrated excellent biocompatibility with no significant toxicity. In the rat study, the dual-function system significantly reduced paw swelling, inflammatory markers, and bone damage compared to controls, suggesting that combining anti-inflammatory medication with joint lubrication in a single treatment offers a promising new approach for rheumatoid arthritis therapy.

PULSED ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD THERAPY FOR MILD-TO-MODERATE KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A DOUBLE-BLIND, RANDOMIZED, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED CLINICAL TRIAL.

DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.70199 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 18:02:21
This randomized controlled trial investigated whether pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy could improve muscle strength, cartilage structure, and physical function in 60 patients with refractory mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis. Participants received either active PEMF or sham treatment for 30 minutes, three times weekly over 8 weeks, with outcomes measured at baseline, immediately post-treatment, and at 6 and 12 months follow-up. The study found that PEMF therapy significantly improved knee extension strength compared to placebo at 6 months (72% vs 25% increase from baseline), but showed no benefits for knee flexion strength, muscle mass, cartilage thickness, joint space width, or patient-reported outcomes. These results suggest PEMF may help address quadriceps weakness in knee osteoarthritis patients, though it does not appear to influence cartilage structure or broader functional outcomes.

OXIDANT CONDITIONING PROTECTS CARTILAGE FROM MECHANICALLY INDUCED DAMAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.21072 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 16:19:49
This study investigated whether pre-exposing cartilage to mild oxidative stress could protect it from damage caused by abnormal mechanical loading, which is implicated in osteoarthritis development. The researchers treated porcine cartilage explants with varying concentrations of tert-butyl hydrogen peroxide (TBHP) at different frequencies, then subjected them to damaging compression cycles while measuring cell death, metabolic activity, and gene expression changes. Pre-treatment with 100 μM TBHP applied four times provided the best protection, significantly improving cell survival, reducing harmful proteoglycan loss, and upregulating protective genes like catalase while downregulating the cartilage-degrading enzyme MMP-3. These findings suggest that controlled oxidative conditioning can strengthen cartilage's natural defenses against mechanical injury, potentially offering insights for developing protective therapies for joint degeneration.

BENEFICIAL THERAPEUTIC APPROACH OF ACELLULAR PLGA IMPLANTS COUPLED WITH REHABILITATION EXERCISE FOR OSTEOCHONDRAL REPAIR: A PROOF OF CONCEPT STUDY IN A MINIPIG MODEL.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546520940306 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 16:19:42
This study investigated whether combining acellular PLGA scaffolds with treadmill exercise could improve osteochondral repair in a minipig model. Researchers created cartilage defects in both high and low weight-bearing regions of 18 minipig knees, treating half with PLGA scaffolds and comparing outcomes between exercised (30-minute daily treadmill sessions) and sedentary groups over 6 months. The combination of PLGA scaffolds plus exercise produced the best results, generating smooth articular surfaces with hyaline-like cartilage tissue, high-quality cellular organization, and superior histological scores compared to exercise alone, scaffold alone, or untreated defects. Importantly, this beneficial effect was observed in both high and low weight-bearing joint regions, suggesting that combining biomaterial scaffolds with controlled exercise rehabilitation could be an effective treatment strategy for cartilage repair.

EFFECTS OF STATIC AND CYCLIC COMPRESSIVE LOADING ON ARTICULAR CARTILAGE PLUGS IN VITRO.

DOI: 10.1002/art.1780270611 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:47:21
This study investigated how different mechanical loading patterns affect cartilage metabolism by examining glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and protein synthesis in dog cartilage samples. Researchers applied static or cyclic compression to cartilage plugs for 2 hours, then measured synthesis rates using radioactive tracers, comparing results to unloaded controls from the same joints. The key finding was that loading pattern dramatically influenced cartilage metabolism: static stress and slow cyclic loading (60 seconds on/off) suppressed GAG synthesis to 30-60% of control levels, while faster cyclic loading (4 seconds on/11 seconds off) actually increased GAG synthesis by 34%. These metabolic changes were not due to altered nutrient diffusion, suggesting that cartilage cells respond differently to various mechanical loading frequencies, with implications for understanding how joint activity affects cartilage health and repair.

BIOSYNTHETIC RESPONSE OF CARTILAGE EXPLANTS TO DYNAMIC COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100070502 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:47:15
This study investigated how dynamic compression affects the biological activity of cartilage tissue by testing calf cartilage samples under various compression patterns with different strengths, speeds, and frequencies. The researchers used specialized chambers to compress small cartilage disks while measuring their mechanical properties and tracked cartilage cell activity by monitoring the uptake of radioactive markers for protein and glycosaminoglycan (cartilage matrix component) production. The study identified a critical frequency (0.001 Hz) that separates two distinct mechanical behaviors: at higher frequencies, even small compressions (1-5%) stimulated cartilage biosynthesis by 20-40%, while at lower frequencies, larger compressions were needed to achieve similar stimulation. These findings provide important insights into how mechanical loading can promote cartilage health and repair, with potential applications for optimizing rehabilitation therapies like continuous passive motion treatment.

TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR ALPHA AND EPIDERMAL GROWTH FACTOR REGULATION OF COLLAGENASE AND STROMELYSIN IN ADULT PORCINE ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1002/jcp.1041490117 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:47:07
This study investigated how tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) regulate cartilage-degrading enzymes (collagenase and stromelysin) in adult pig joint cartilage cells. The researchers used cell culture techniques and molecular analyses to measure enzyme production, gene expression, and transcription rates in response to these growth factors. The key finding was that TNF-α, an inflammatory molecule found in arthritic joints, strongly stimulated the production of both cartilage-degrading enzymes, while EGF had minimal effect despite being effective in other cell types. These results suggest that TNF-α may contribute to cartilage breakdown in arthritis by promoting the release of matrix-degrading enzymes from cartilage cells themselves.

RABBIT ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES (RAC) EXPRESS DISTINCT TRANSFORMING GROWTH FACTOR-BETA RECEPTOR PHENOTYPES AS A FUNCTION OF CELL CYCLE PHASES.

DOI: 10.1006/excr.1993.1071 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:47:02
This study investigated how rabbit articular chondrocytes (RAC) express different transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) receptors depending on their cell cycle phase. The researchers used varying serum concentrations (2% vs 10% fetal calf serum) to create different proliferation states and performed receptor binding assays on both mixed and synchronized cell populations. They found that slowly dividing cells (enriched in G0/G1 phase) had 60% more high-affinity TGF-β receptors compared to rapidly dividing cells, with synchronized G0/G1 cells showing a single high-affinity receptor type while S-phase cells expressed only lower-affinity receptors. These findings demonstrate that chondrocytes dynamically regulate their TGF-β receptor expression throughout the cell cycle, which may explain the dual growth-promoting and growth-inhibiting effects of TGF-β on cartilage cells.

THE EFFECTS OF INTRAARTICULAR ADMINISTRATION OF HYALURONAN IN A MODEL OF EARLY OSTEOARTHRITIS IN SHEEP. II. CARTILAGE COMPOSITION AND PROTEOGLYCAN METABOLISM.

DOI: 10.1016/s0049-0172(10)80017-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:46:56
This study investigated whether intra-articular hyaluronan injections could improve cartilage health in sheep with early osteoarthritis induced by meniscus removal. Researchers compared two hyaluronan preparations with different molecular weights (high MW: DHA vs lower MW: AHA) given weekly for 5 weeks, then analyzed cartilage composition and proteoglycan metabolism using tissue culture and biochemical assays. The high molecular weight hyaluronan (DHA) showed some beneficial effects, including reduced proteoglycan loss from femoral cartilage and altered proteoglycan metabolism, though both treatments reduced proteoglycan synthesis compared to saline controls. The authors concluded that the observed metabolic changes likely resulted from increased joint loading in treated animals rather than direct cellular effects of hyaluronan.

EFFECT OF COMPRESSIVE LOADING AND UNLOADING ON THE SYNTHESIS OF TOTAL PROTEIN, PROTEOGLYCAN, AND FIBRONECTIN BY CANINE CARTILAGE EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100110514 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:46:50
This study investigated how compressive loading affects the production of key cartilage components (proteins, proteoglycans, and fibronectin) in dog cartilage samples. The researchers applied various compression levels (0.025-1.2 MPa) to cartilage explants using both single 18-hour cycles and intermittent loading over multiple days, then measured synthesis rates and tissue composition.

The main findings showed that a single compression cycle temporarily suppressed the synthesis of all measured components, with greater suppression at higher loads, but synthesis rates recovered or even exceeded normal levels within 24 hours after load removal. Importantly, while single loading cycles were inhibitory, intermittent compression over longer periods helped maintain normal cartilage water content compared to unloaded samples, which became increasingly hydrated over time in culture.

These results suggest that while acute compression temporarily reduces cartilage biosynthesis, intermittent loading may be beneficial for maintaining normal cartilage structure and composition.

CHARACTERIZATION OF ZYMOSAN-INDUCED ARTHRITIS IN THE RAT: EFFECTS ON JOINT INFLAMMATION AND CARTILAGE METABOLISM.

DOI: 10.1016/0024-3205(94)00771-3 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:46:42
This study aimed to characterize zymosan-induced arthritis in rats as a model for evaluating joint inflammation and cartilage damage. Researchers injected 2 mg of zymosan into rat joints and monitored inflammation markers, cartilage metabolism, and proteoglycan synthesis over 20 days, comparing results with IL-1β injections. The zymosan injection produced acute inflammation (swelling, pain, fever) followed by chronic joint damage, including decreased cartilage proteoglycan synthesis initially and significant cartilage proteoglycan depletion by day 20. The model successfully combined early inflammatory processes with longer-term cartilage destruction, making it suitable for testing drugs that protect cartilage from damage.

EFFECTS OF FLUID-INDUCED SHEAR ON ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTE MORPHOLOGY AND METABOLISM IN VITRO.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100130604 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:46:37
This study investigated how fluid-induced mechanical forces affect cartilage cells (chondrocytes) grown in laboratory cultures. The researchers applied controlled shear stress (1.6 Pa) using a cone viscometer to human and bovine chondrocytes for 24-72 hours, then measured changes in cell shape and metabolic activity.

The mechanical stimulation caused chondrocytes to elongate and align with the direction of fluid flow after 48-72 hours, while also doubling the production of glycosaminoglycans (key cartilage matrix components) and increasing the size of newly formed proteoglycans. Additionally, shear stress dramatically increased prostaglandin E2 release (10-20 fold) and boosted levels of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (9-fold), while having minimal effects on cartilage-degrading enzymes.

These findings demonstrate that cartilage cells directly respond to mechanical forces by altering their shape and increasing production of cartilage-building molecules, suggesting that physical loading plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy cartilage in living joints.

BIOMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF THIRD CARPAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN EXERCISED AND NONEXERCISED HORSES.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100130608 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:46:29
This study investigated how anatomical location and exercise affect the biomechanical properties of cartilage in horses' third carpal bones. Researchers compared 6 exercised horses (30 minutes, 3x weekly) with 6 non-exercised horses using creep indentation testing at 12 cartilage sites to measure material properties including aggregate modulus, permeability, and Poisson's ratio. The results showed that cartilage stiffness (aggregate modulus) varied significantly by location within the joint but was not affected by exercise, while exercise increased cartilage permeability at all sites and increased Poisson's ratio specifically at high-load bearing areas. These findings suggest that both anatomical location and exercise influence cartilage biomechanics, with site-specific property differences potentially explaining why cartilage lesions develop at particular locations within the horse's midcarpal joint.

EXPRESSION OF INTERLEUKIN-6 IN OSTEOARTHRITIC CHONDROCYTES AND EFFECTS OF FLUID-INDUCED SHEAR ON THIS EXPRESSION IN NORMAL HUMAN CHONDROCYTES IN VITRO.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100140112 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:46:23
This study investigated how mechanical forces affect interleukin-6 (IL-6) production in cartilage cells, comparing normal and osteoarthritic conditions. The researchers used Northern blot analysis to measure IL-6 gene expression and applied fluid-induced shear stress to cultured human chondrocytes to simulate mechanical loading. They found that while normal chondrocytes don't naturally produce IL-6, osteoarthritic chondrocytes do, and applying mechanical shear stress to normal chondrocytes dramatically increased IL-6 production by 4-fold at 1 hour and 10-15 fold at 48 hours. The findings suggest that abnormal mechanical loading in joints may contribute to the elevated IL-6 levels seen in osteoarthritic cartilage, providing insight into how mechanical factors influence inflammation in joint disease.

ALTERED AGGRECAN SYNTHESIS CORRELATES WITH CELL AND NUCLEUS STRUCTURE IN STATICALLY COMPRESSED CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1242/jcs.109.2.499 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:46:18
This study investigated how static compression affects cartilage cell structure and their production of aggrecan, a key cartilage protein. The researchers applied continuous compression to cartilage tissue samples and used radioactive labeling to track aggrecan synthesis, while measuring changes in cell and nucleus dimensions using specialized microscopy techniques.

The main findings showed that compression reduced overall aggrecan production and created uneven patterns of synthesis throughout the tissue that weren't present in uncompressed samples. Additionally, cells and their nuclei became flattened in the direction of compression (matching the tissue deformation) while maintaining their width, and these structural changes strongly correlated with the reduced aggrecan synthesis, suggesting that cell deformation may directly influence the cell's ability to produce this important cartilage component.

SWELLING AND FIBRONECTIN ACCUMULATION IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPLANTS AFTER CYCLICAL IMPACT.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100140312 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:46:11
This study investigated whether repeated mechanical impact could cause damage to living cartilage that resembles changes seen in osteoarthritis. The researchers subjected canine cartilage explants to cyclical impacts of varying intensities (0-50 MPa) for 30 minutes, then monitored the tissue in culture for up to 10 days using multiple assessment methods including radiosulfate incorporation, swelling tests, and magnetic resonance imaging. The results showed that even relatively low impact forces (5-10 MPa) caused subtle but measurable damage to the cartilage matrix, while higher forces caused visible damage, and by 10 days post-impact, the cartilage exhibited osteoarthritis-like changes including increased water content, fibronectin accumulation, and compromised structural integrity. The findings suggest that normal cartilage has limited ability to withstand repeated mechanical impacts, which may contribute to the development of osteoarthritis.

TOPOGRAPHIC VARIATION IN BIGLYCAN AND DECORIN SYNTHESIS BY ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN THE EARLY STAGES OF OSTEOARTHRITIS: AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY IN SHEEP.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100140314 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:46:06
This study investigated how mechanical stress affects the production of different cartilage proteins (proteoglycans) in normal sheep knee joints and in early osteoarthritis following meniscus removal. The researchers used radioactive labeling to track the synthesis of aggrecan, biglycan, and decorin in cartilage samples from eight different weight-bearing regions, comparing normal joints to joints 6 months after meniscectomy. In normal joints, high-stress cartilage areas produced less total proteoglycan but more decorin compared to low-stress regions, and also released more breakdown products. After meniscus removal, the newly high-stress cartilage areas showed increased production of biglycan and decorin alongside increased breakdown of aggrecan, suggesting that abnormal mechanical loading triggers early osteoarthritic changes in cartilage protein metabolism.

WINNER OF THE 1996 CABAUD AWARD. THE EFFECT OF LIFELONG EXERCISE ON CANINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1177/036354659702500302 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:46:00
This study investigated whether lifelong intense exercise damages articular cartilage by comparing dogs that exercised on treadmills while carrying heavy loads (130% body weight) for over 10 years against sedentary controls. The researchers used comprehensive assessment methods including visual joint inspection, microscopic examination, cartilage thickness measurements, and mechanical testing of the knee cartilage. The results showed no differences between exercised and control dogs in joint structure, cartilage appearance, thickness, or mechanical properties, with no evidence of injury or degeneration in either group. These findings suggest that regular weight-bearing exercise throughout life does not harm healthy articular cartilage or predispose joints to degeneration.

IN VITRO MODEL OF CHARACTERIZING THE EFFECTS OF COMPRESSIVE LOADING ON PROTEOGLYCANS IN ANATOMICALLY INTACT ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-972661 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:45:54
This study developed an in vitro model to investigate how mechanical loading affects proteoglycan metabolism in intact articular cartilage from dog humeral heads. The researchers used a condom barrier to maintain tissue hydration and applied intermittent compressive stresses (2.1, 3.3, and 6.4 MPa) for 2 hours, followed by an 18-hour recovery period, measuring proteoglycan synthesis using radioactive sulfate incorporation. The key finding was a biphasic response to loading: moderate stress (2.1 MPa) increased proteoglycan synthesis by 40%, intermediate stress (3.3 MPa) had no effect, while high stress (6.4 MPa) decreased synthesis by 45%, with no significant changes in proteoglycan degradation at any load level. This demonstrates that cartilage response to mechanical loading is dose-dependent, with beneficial effects at physiological loads but detrimental effects at excessive loads.

EFFECT OF STATIC COMPRESSION ON PROTEOGLYCAN BIOSYNTHESIS BY CHONDROCYTES TRANSPLANTED TO ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN VITRO.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100160504 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:45:48
This study investigated how mechanical compression affects chondrocytes (cartilage cells) that have been transplanted onto cartilage surfaces, which is relevant for cartilage repair therapies. The researchers transplanted bovine chondrocytes onto prepared cartilage disks, allowed them to attach for either 1 hour or 4 days, then applied compressive loads and measured proteoglycan synthesis (a key indicator of cartilage formation) and cell retention. The key findings showed that compression significantly inhibited proteoglycan synthesis by 68% in newly attached cells (1-hour) and 45% in well-attached cells (4-day), while also causing substantial cell loss in the newly attached group but not in the well-attached group. Importantly, the inhibitory effects were reversible, with cells showing enhanced synthesis after load removal, suggesting that while immediate compression may be detrimental to transplanted chondrocytes, the effects are temporary and proper cell attachment time is crucial for success.

QUANTITATIVE MEASUREMENT OF THE BIOLOGICAL RESPONSE OF CARTILAGE TO MECHANICAL DEFORMATION.

DOI: 10.1385/0-89603-516-6:521 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:45:41
This study aimed to develop methods for quantitatively measuring how cartilage cells (chondrocytes) respond biologically to mechanical loading. The researchers used cultured cartilage tissue explants as experimental models, which allowed them to precisely control both mechanical forces and biological conditions that might affect cellular behavior. The work established foundational methods for assessing cartilage's biological response to controlled mechanical stimuli. This approach creates a platform for future research investigating how cartilage responds to mechanical loading in combination with other biological factors like inflammatory molecules and growth factors.

CONTINUOUS CYCLIC LOAD REDUCES PROTEOGLYCAN RELEASE FROM ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1053/joca.1998.0119 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:45:36
This study investigated how continuous cyclic mechanical loading affects the release of newly synthesized proteoglycans (PGs) from mature bovine cartilage. The researchers applied 1 MPa cyclic compression at 1 Hz for 24 hours to cartilage explants and measured the release of radioactively labeled PGs, comparing live explants with and without protease inhibitors to explants with killed cells. The key finding was that continuous cyclic loading reduced PG release by up to 50% in live explants, with similar reductions observed even in killed explants, indicating the effect was independent of cellular activity. The authors concluded that mechanical loading primarily reduces PG release by decreasing interstitial porosity in the cartilage matrix, thereby limiting the pathways through which PGs can escape, rather than through changes in cellular metabolism.

STIMULATION OF AGGRECAN SYNTHESIS IN CARTILAGE EXPLANTS BY CYCLIC LOADING IS LOCALIZED TO REGIONS OF HIGH INTERSTITIAL FLUID FLOW.

DOI: 10.1006/abbi.1999.1197 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:45:30
This study investigated which mechanical factors stimulate cartilage cells to produce aggrecan, a key protein that maintains cartilage structure and function. The researchers applied cyclic compression to cartilage disk samples at different frequencies (0.01 Hz and 0.1 Hz) and used radioactive labeling to precisely map where aggrecan production increased, then compared these patterns to computer predictions of mechanical forces within the tissue. At low frequency loading, aggrecan production increased uniformly throughout the cartilage, while at higher frequency loading, increases occurred only at the outer edges of the disk samples. The study found that areas with high interstitial fluid flow consistently matched the regions where aggrecan production was stimulated, supporting the theory that fluid movement within cartilage tissue is a key mechanism by which mechanical loading promotes cartilage health and repair.

DETECTION OF COLLAGENASE-INDUCED DAMAGE OF COLLAGEN BY 9A4, A MONOCLONAL C-TERMINAL NEOEPITOPE ANTIBODY.

DOI: 10.1016/s0945-053x(99)00026-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:45:23
This study aimed to investigate whether collagenase damages the collagen network during acute joint inflammation and how this affects cartilage's response to mechanical stress. The researchers developed a monoclonal antibody (9A4) that specifically detects collagen fragments produced when collagenase cuts type II collagen, then tested it in hamsters with LPS-induced joint inflammation followed by 6 months of wheel running exercise. The antibody successfully identified collagenase-induced collagen damage in inflamed joints, while healthy cartilage showed no staining. Importantly, while normal cartilage remained unaffected by prolonged exercise, all animals with prior collagen damage developed cartilage breakdown, with half progressing to complete cartilage failure and bone-on-bone contact.

NONLINEAR ANALYSIS OF CARTILAGE IN UNCONFINED RAMP COMPRESSION USING A FIBRIL REINFORCED POROELASTIC MODEL.

DOI: 10.1016/s0268-0033(99)00013-3 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:45:17
This study aimed to develop a biomechanical model that could capture the nonlinear mechanical behaviors of cartilage that previous biphasic models failed to explain in unconfined compression tests. The researchers created a fibril-reinforced poroelastic model that treats cartilage as having three distinct components: collagen fibrils (modeled as springs that only resist tension), a proteoglycan matrix, and fluid with mobile ions, then used finite element analysis to simulate step-wise compression and relaxation cycles on cartilage disks. The model successfully reproduced key experimental observations including strong stress relaxation and compression-dependent stiffening that occurs when cartilage is compressed to different levels. This advancement allows researchers to better understand how individual cartilage components respond to mechanical loading, which could improve knowledge of cartilage remodeling and disease processes.

IMAGING OF ACUTE INJURIES OF THE ARTICULAR SURFACES (CHONDRAL, OSTEOCHONDRAL AND SUBCHONDRAL FRACTURES).

DOI: 10.1007/s002560050618 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:45:10
This study aimed to review and classify acute injuries affecting joint cartilage and underlying bone surfaces, which are common causes of long-term joint problems. The authors used a combination of arthroscopic examination and MRI imaging techniques (including specialized sequences like short tau inversion recovery and gradient-echo) to evaluate different types of articular surface injuries. They found that these injuries typically occur parallel to the joint surface and can be classified into two main categories: those with intact cartilage (bone bruises and subchondral impaction) versus those with disrupted cartilage (chondral and osteochondral fractures). The study emphasizes that MRI, when used with appropriate imaging sequences, can accurately distinguish between these injury types and guide treatment decisions for what should be considered as damage to a single anatomical unit comprising cartilage, subchondral bone plate, and underlying cancellous bone.

COMPOSITIONAL AND METABOLIC CHANGES IN DAMAGED CARTILAGE ARE PEAK-STRESS, STRESS-RATE, AND LOADING-DURATION DEPENDENT.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100170612 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:45:03
This study investigated how different loading conditions damage cartilage and the subsequent biological responses that may lead to osteoarthritis. Researchers subjected canine cartilage samples to either repeated impacts or smooth compression at various stress levels, rates, and durations, then monitored compositional and metabolic changes over 10 days in culture.

The study found that cartilage damage required specific threshold conditions: repeated impacts with at least 2.5 MPa peak stress, 30 MPa/sec stress rate, and 2+ minutes duration, while smooth compression caused no damage even at much higher stresses (20 MPa). Impact-damaged cartilage showed persistent increases in water content (indicating matrix breakdown) and elevated synthesis of fibronectin (22-47%) and proteoglycans (41-104%), along with substantial collagen denaturation (11-70%) particularly near the surface and deep zones.

These findings demonstrate that cartilage damage is critically dependent on the rate and nature of loading rather than just peak stress levels, and that impact damage triggers biological responses characteristic of early osteoarthritis that persist well beyond the initial injury.

ATP RELEASE BY MECHANICALLY LOADED PORCINE CHONDRONS IN PELLET CULTURE.

DOI: 10.1002/1529-0131(200007)43:73.0.CO;2-L · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:44:56
This study investigated whether chondrocytes (cartilage cells) release ATP in response to mechanical loading and whether this ATP contributes to pyrophosphate formation in cartilage. The researchers used porcine chondrocyte pellet cultures and applied cyclic compression while measuring ATP levels in the culture medium using biochemical assays and chromatography.

The key findings showed that mechanical loading caused a 5-12 fold increase in ATP release from chondrocytes, though cells became desensitized to continued loading within 60 minutes. The released ATP was rapidly broken down into pyrophosphate, and the ATP release appeared to be a regulated cellular process rather than simply cell damage. The authors suggest this mechanically-stimulated ATP release may serve as a signaling mechanism for chondrocytes and could contribute to calcium pyrophosphate crystal formation in joint diseases.

COMPARISON OF KNEE JOINT CARTILAGE THICKNESS IN TRIATHLETES AND PHYSICALLY INACTIVE VOLUNTEERS BASED ON MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS.

DOI: 10.1177/03635465000280041601 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:44:49
This study aimed to compare knee cartilage thickness between highly trained triathletes and sedentary individuals using advanced MRI imaging techniques. The researchers used quantitative MRI with 3D reconstruction to measure cartilage thickness across different knee joint surfaces in 9 male triathletes (training 10+ hours weekly for 3+ years) and 9 inactive male controls. The results showed high individual variation in cartilage thickness in both groups, with triathletes having slightly thicker cartilage in some areas (patella, femoral trochlea, lateral femoral condyle) but thinner cartilage in others (medial femoral condyle and tibial plateaus), though none of these differences reached statistical significance. These findings were surprising given that other tissues like muscle and bone show clear adaptive responses to mechanical loading, suggesting cartilage may respond differently to exercise stress than previously expected.

FUNCTIONAL TISSUE ENGINEERING OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE THROUGH DYNAMIC LOADING OF CHONDROCYTE-SEEDED AGAROSE GELS.

DOI: 10.1115/1.429656 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:44:44
This study investigated whether applying mechanical loading to tissue-engineered cartilage could improve its mechanical properties to better match natural cartilage. The researchers used a custom bioreactor to apply cyclic compression (10% strain at 1 Hz) to chondrocyte-seeded agarose gels for 3 hours daily over 4 weeks, comparing results to unloaded control samples. Dynamic loading produced dramatically superior mechanical properties, with a 6-fold increase in stiffness (aggregate modulus) compared to controls and a 21-fold increase from baseline values. The loaded samples also contained significantly more cartilage matrix components (glycosaminoglycans and collagen) than controls, demonstrating that physiological mechanical stimulation enhances cartilage tissue engineering outcomes.

MECHANICAL COMPRESSION MODULATES PROLIFERATION OF TRANSPLANTED CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100180308 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:44:37
This study investigated how mechanical compression affects the growth of transplanted cartilage cells (chondrocytes) that are used to repair joint cartilage defects. The researchers transplanted bovine chondrocytes onto cartilage surfaces and applied static compressive stress (0.06-0.4 MPa) for 24 hours at different time points, then measured cell proliferation using DNA synthesis markers. Without compression, transplanted chondrocytes proliferated rapidly, increasing 4-fold over 5 days, but applying compression dramatically inhibited cell division by 70-87% compared to unloaded controls, with this suppressive effect persisting even after load removal. These findings suggest that mechanical forces during cartilage repair procedures may significantly control transplanted cell growth, potentially explaining why some cartilage transplantation treatments result in tissue overgrowth.

BIOLOGICAL TREATMENT OF JOINT CARTILAGE DAMAGE.

DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0838.2000.010005249.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:44:31
This review examines biological treatment approaches for damaged joint cartilage, motivated by cartilage's poor natural healing capacity and the risk of progression to osteoarthritis. The authors analyzed existing treatment methods that aim to restore joint function and prevent further cartilage deterioration. While some biological treatments showed promising results in clinical studies, the review found no controlled comparative studies between different methods available at the time. The authors concluded that further research is needed to establish the effectiveness and appropriate clinical indications for these cartilage repair treatments.

[DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING OF ACUTE AND CHRONIC OSTEOCHONDRAL LESIONS OF THE TALUS].

DOI: 10.1007/s001320050568 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:44:26
This review article examines the diagnostic imaging approaches for both acute and chronic osteochondral lesions affecting the talus (ankle bone). The authors focus on conventional radiography and MRI as the primary imaging modalities, proposing an MRI classification system that distinguishes between lesions with intact versus disrupted cartilage. For acute injuries, the study identifies three main types of impaction-related damage: subchondral microfractures (bone bruises), osteochondral fractures, and isolated cartilage fractures. For chronic lesions like osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), the authors present a two-stage MRI classification system where Stage I lesions show intact cartilage and contrast enhancement, while Stage II lesions demonstrate cartilage defects, fluid accumulation, large cysts, or displaced fragments that typically require surgical intervention.

IMPACT OF MECHANICAL TRAUMA ON MATRIX AND CELLS.

DOI: 10.1097/00003086-200110001-00009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:44:20
This study investigated how mechanical trauma leads to cartilage damage and cell death, which contributes to post-traumatic arthritis. The researchers used bovine and human cartilage samples subjected to mechanical loading in laboratory experiments, along with an in vivo rabbit model where patellar cartilage was impacted, to measure cell death (apoptosis) and matrix breakdown (glycosaminoglycan release). The key finding was that mechanical injury significantly increased chondrocyte apoptosis from 1% in controls to 15% in impacted tissue, and this cell death was associated with increased matrix degradation. Importantly, treatment with a caspase inhibitor (Z-VAD.FMK) reduced both cell death and matrix breakdown, suggesting that preventing chondrocyte apoptosis could be a therapeutic target for limiting cartilage damage after joint trauma.

GROWTH RESPONSES OF CARTILAGE TO STATIC AND DYNAMIC COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1097/00003086-200110001-00005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:44:14
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects cartilage growth and metabolism at different developmental stages by comparing glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis and cell proliferation in fetal, calf, and adult bovine cartilage samples from various tissue depths. The researchers applied controlled static compression (84 kPa) and dynamic compression (200 kPa at 0.01 Hz) to cartilage explants for 24 hours, then measured glycosaminoglycan synthesis and DNA synthesis as indicators of cartilage growth. Static loading inhibited both glycosaminoglycan and DNA synthesis across all cartilage samples, while adding dynamic loading provided some beneficial effects—specifically increasing glycosaminoglycan synthesis by 20% in calf cartilage from middle-deep zones compared to static loading alone. The findings demonstrate that cartilage responds differently to static versus dynamic mechanical forces depending on developmental stage and tissue depth, with glycosaminoglycan synthesis and cell proliferation being regulated independently by mechanical stimuli.

TISSUE SHEAR DEFORMATION STIMULATES PROTEOGLYCAN AND PROTEIN BIOSYNTHESIS IN BOVINE CARTILAGE EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1006/abbi.2001.2543 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:44:08
This study investigated how mechanical deformation of cartilage tissue affects the production of key cartilage components by chondrocytes (cartilage cells). The researchers used a specialized shear loading technique on bovine cartilage samples that allowed them to isolate the effects of cell and matrix deformation from fluid flow, applying controlled shear strains of 1-3% at frequencies ranging from 0.01-1.0 Hz while measuring biosynthesis using radiolabeled tracers. The results showed that shear loading significantly stimulated chondrocyte activity, increasing protein synthesis by approximately 50% and proteoglycan synthesis by approximately 25% across all tested frequencies. These findings demonstrate that mechanical deformation of cells and their surrounding matrix alone—without the fluid flow typically associated with cartilage compression—is sufficient to trigger chondrocyte responses that promote cartilage maintenance and repair.

CARTILAGE VIABILITY AFTER REPETITIVE LOADING: A PRELIMINARY REPORT.

DOI: 10.1053/joca.2001.0483 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:44:01
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects cartilage cell survival and tissue structure in bovine cartilage samples subjected to static or repetitive (cyclic) loading at physiological stress levels (1 MPa) for 1-72 hours. The researchers used fluorescent staining, electron microscopy, and histological analysis to assess cell death, tissue morphology, and matrix integrity across different cartilage zones.

The key findings showed that prolonged mechanical loading selectively damaged cells in the superficial cartilage layer, with static loading causing cell death faster (3 hours) than cyclic loading (6 hours), while deeper cartilage cells remained viable throughout the experiment. Cell death occurred through necrosis rather than programmed cell death (apoptosis), and was accompanied by matrix damage in the uppermost cartilage layer that resembled early osteoarthritis changes.

These results demonstrate that excessive mechanical loading can cause cartilage damage similar to degenerative joint disease, with the superficial zone being most vulnerable to mechanical overload.

PRESERVATION AND ANALYSIS OF NONEQUILIBRIUM SOLUTE CONCENTRATION DISTRIBUTIONS WITHIN MECHANICALLY COMPRESSED CARTILAGE EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1016/s0165-022x(02)00051-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:43:54
This study aimed to develop a method for preserving and analyzing how solutes move through cartilage tissue under different mechanical loading conditions. The researchers used a freeze-substitution technique to fix cartilage samples that had been compressed while fluorescent dextran molecules moved through them, then analyzed the solute distribution patterns using laser confocal microscopy and theoretical modeling.

The key findings showed that static compression (0-46% strain) reduced effective diffusion rates, supporting the idea that poor transport contributes to decreased cell metabolism under static loading. In contrast, dynamic compression (oscillating at 23±5% strain) enhanced transport of small molecules through fluid flow, which may explain why dynamic loading increases cell activity.

These methods provide a valuable tool for studying how mechanical forces affect nutrient and waste transport in cartilage, with potential applications in optimizing loading protocols for cartilage tissue engineering.

MICROENVIRONMENT REGULATION OF EXTRACELLULAR SIGNAL-REGULATED KINASE ACTIVITY IN CHONDROCYTES: EFFECTS OF CULTURE CONFIGURATION, INTERLEUKIN-1, AND COMPRESSIVE STRESS.

DOI: 10.1002/art.10849 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:43:46
This study investigated how different culture environments affect ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) signaling in chondrocytes when exposed to inflammatory stimuli (IL-1) and mechanical loading. Researchers cultured bovine chondrocytes in four different configurations (monolayer, attached to cartilage surface, tissue-engineered constructs, and intact cartilage explants) and measured ERK activity responses to IL-1 treatment and dynamic compression over 16 hours. The key finding was that chondrocytes in monolayer culture showed dramatically different ERK signaling patterns compared to cells in more physiologically relevant environments - monolayer cells had high baseline ERK activity that quickly diminished, while cells in matrix-rich environments maintained lower baseline levels with sustained moderate activation in response to IL-1. Importantly, dynamic mechanical loading activated ERK to similar levels as IL-1, but since these stimuli have opposite effects on cartilage synthesis, the authors concluded that other signaling pathways beyond ERK must be responsible for the distinct cellular responses to inflammation versus mechanical stimulation.

THE EXTENT AND DISTRIBUTION OF CELL DEATH AND MATRIX DAMAGE IN IMPACTED CHONDRAL EXPLANTS VARIES WITH THE PRESENCE OF UNDERLYING BONE.

DOI: 10.1115/1.1536654 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:43:38
This study investigated how the presence of underlying bone affects cartilage damage when subjected to mechanical impact loading. Researchers compared cartilage-only (chondral) and cartilage-with-bone (osteochondral) explants loaded to 30 MPa at either high (600 MPa/s) or low (30 MPa/s) loading rates, then assessed matrix damage through surface fissure measurements and cell death through viability staining after 24 hours. The results showed that cartilage samples with underlying bone had significantly less matrix damage and cell death compared to cartilage-only samples, with bone providing protective effects across all cartilage layers during low-rate loading and in the intermediate and deep zones during high-rate loading. These findings suggest that underlying bone provides mechanical protection to cartilage during impact loading, which has important implications for interpreting experimental cartilage studies and understanding injury mechanisms.

BASIC FIBROBLAST GROWTH FACTOR MEDIATES TRANSDUCTION OF MECHANICAL SIGNALS WHEN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IS LOADED.

DOI: 10.1002/art.20047 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:43:32
This study investigated whether basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) acts as a signaling molecule when articular cartilage experiences mechanical loading. The researchers applied cyclic loading to porcine cartilage samples with and without a bFGF receptor inhibitor, then measured ERK kinase activation and protein synthesis changes. The key findings showed that mechanical loading rapidly activated ERK signaling and stimulated production of TIMP-1 (a protein that protects cartilage from breakdown), and both responses were blocked when bFGF signaling was inhibited. This demonstrates that bFGF serves as a crucial intermediary molecule that helps cartilage cells sense and respond to mechanical forces by promoting protective protein production.

EFFECT OF DECREASED LOADING ON THE METABOLIC ACTIVITY OF THE MANDIBULAR CONDYLAR CARTILAGE IN THE RAT.

DOI: 10.1093/ejo/26.1.1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:43:26
This study investigated how reduced jaw loading affects the growth and breakdown of cartilage in the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint) of young rats. The researchers divided 80 young female rats into two groups: one fed a soft diet with shortened incisors to reduce chewing forces, and controls fed a hard diet with normal chewing. Using radioactive tracers and tissue staining techniques, they measured cell growth, cartilage matrix production, and levels of a cartilage-degrading enzyme (MMP-3) over various time periods. The results showed that reduced jaw loading significantly decreased both cell proliferation and cartilage matrix production within 6-24 hours, while simultaneously increasing the presence of the cartilage-degrading enzyme MMP-3 throughout the cartilage layers compared to controls.

EFFECTS OF CALCITONIN ON SUBCHONDRAL TRABECULAR BONE CHANGES AND ON OSTEOARTHRITIC CARTILAGE LESIONS AFTER ACUTE ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT DEFICIENCY.

DOI: 10.1359/JBMR.040609 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:43:20
This study investigated whether calcitonin (CT) treatment could reduce cartilage damage and subchondral bone changes in early experimental osteoarthritis by examining the relationship between bone remodeling and cartilage breakdown. Researchers surgically transected the anterior cruciate ligament in 12 dogs to induce osteoarthritis, then treated half with daily nasal calcitonin (400 U) and half with placebo for 84 days before assessing cartilage damage grades and measuring subchondral bone density and volume using pQCT imaging. Placebo-treated dogs developed significant osteoarthritic cartilage lesions and substantial loss of subchondral bone density/volume in the medial tibial plateau, while calcitonin-treated dogs showed markedly reduced cartilage damage and preserved subchondral bone structure. The findings suggest that preventing subchondral bone loss with calcitonin treatment can significantly protect cartilage from osteoarthritic damage, supporting its potential therapeutic use in cruciate ligament-deficient dogs.

CHANGE IN KNEE CARTILAGE T2 AT MR IMAGING AFTER RUNNING: A FEASIBILITY STUDY.

DOI: 10.1148/radiol.2341040041 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:43:13
This feasibility study aimed to determine whether MRI T2 mapping could detect changes in knee cartilage following running exercise in healthy individuals. Seven young healthy men underwent 3.0-T MRI scanning before and immediately after 30 minutes of running to measure T2 values in weight-bearing femoral and tibial cartilage. The results showed a statistically significant decrease in T2 values specifically in the superficial 40% of weight-bearing femoral cartilage after exercise, while tibial cartilage showed no significant changes. These findings suggest that T2 mapping can detect exercise-induced cartilage compression effects and support the theory that mechanical loading increases the structural organization of collagen fibers in the superficial cartilage layer.

CYCLICAL ARTICULAR JOINT LOADING LEADS TO CARTILAGE THINNING AND OSTEOPONTIN PRODUCTION IN A NOVEL IN VIVO RABBIT MODEL OF REPETITIVE FINGER FLEXION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2005.06.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:43:06
This study aimed to investigate how repetitive joint loading affects articular cartilage structure using a novel rabbit model of finger flexion. Researchers subjected rabbit forepaw digits to cyclical flexion at 1 Hz with 0.42 N peak load for 2 hours daily over 60 cumulative hours, then analyzed cartilage thickness and cellular changes using histological and immunohistochemical methods. The main findings showed that repetitive loading caused thinning of the uncalcified cartilage layer and increased production of osteopontin-positive cells, without obvious surface damage to the cartilage. These changes suggest that cyclical mechanical loading may trigger cartilage mineralization processes similar to bone formation, potentially representing an early response to repetitive joint stress.

FOS- AND JUN-RELATED TRANSCRIPTION FACTORS ARE INVOLVED IN THE SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION PATHWAY OF MECHANICAL LOADING IN CONDYLAR CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1093/ejo/cji101 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:43:01
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects specific transcription factors (FRA-1, FRA-2, JUNB, and JUND) in mandibular condylar cartilage, which are known to regulate cartilage remodeling and cell death processes. Researchers fed 30 young rats either soft or hard diets to create different mechanical loading conditions, then examined condylar cartilage at 6, 12, and 48 hours using immunostaining to detect these proteins. The results showed that all four transcription factors were significantly overexpressed in chondrocytes from rats fed the hard diet compared to the soft diet group, with expression levels increasing over time in both groups. These findings suggest that condylar chondrocytes can sense changes in mechanical loading and respond by activating molecular pathways that control cartilage growth, maturation, and remodeling.

VOLUME CHANGES IN THE MENISCI AND ARTICULAR CARTILAGE OF RUNNERS: AN IN VIVO INVESTIGATION BASED ON 3-D MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546505282622 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:42:55
This study investigated how running affects the volume of knee cartilage and menisci by measuring changes before and after runs of different distances (5, 10, and 20 km). The researchers used 3D MRI to scan 48 knees of male athletes immediately before and after running, with the MRI scanner located at the start/finish point of the running course. The results showed significant volume reductions in patellar, tibial, and meniscal cartilage after just 5 km of running, with only the medial meniscus showing additional volume loss at longer distances (10-20 km), suggesting the cartilage reaches a plateau effect. The authors conclude that knee cartilage appears to adapt well to repetitive loading from running, and this study provides the first evidence that meniscal volume changes can serve as an indicator of the menisci's important mechanical role in protecting the knee during repetitive activities.

REHABILITATION AFTER CELL TRANSPLANTATION FOR CARTILAGE DEFECTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2005.12.074 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:42:48
This study outlines the rehabilitation protocol for patients undergoing cell transplantation to treat cartilage defects. The rehabilitation approach follows a carefully phased program starting 8 hours post-surgery with continuous passive motion (CPM) exercises, progressing through controlled weight-bearing at 2 weeks, accelerated loading at 6-8 weeks, and specialized training as pain-free motion is achieved. Key findings indicate that while most patients recover joint function by 6 months and can return to daily activities, the complete graft maturation process requires 18 months and cannot be rushed. The authors emphasize that successful outcomes depend on close collaboration between patients, surgeons, and physiotherapists to properly manage this complex, extended rehabilitation timeline.

THE RESPONSE OF BONE, ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND TENDON TO EXERCISE IN THE HORSE.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2006.00547.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:42:42
This review examines how exercise affects bone, cartilage, and tendon development in horses, which uniquely begin intense athletic training while still growing. The authors synthesized studies using clinical imaging, biochemical analysis, and microscopy to assess tissue responses to exercise training. Key findings show that bone adapts positively to training with increased density, particularly in high-load areas, though excessive training can cause damage; tendons show increased cross-sectional area with training but minimal changes in collagen structure from early training; and cartilage may thicken in response to early training but appears most vulnerable to pathological changes among the three tissues. The research highlights that the timing, intensity, and duration of exercise during growth critically influence whether tissues adapt beneficially or develop damage.

DYNAMIC SHEAR STIMULATION OF BOVINE CARTILAGE BIOSYNTHESIS OF PROTEOGLYCAN 4.

DOI: 10.1002/art.21831 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:42:36
This study investigated how mechanical forces affect the production of proteoglycan 4 (PRG4), a key lubricating molecule in joint cartilage. Researchers applied dynamic shear forces (sliding motion) to bovine cartilage samples for 24 hours, comparing this to static compression alone and unloaded controls, then measured PRG4 production and cellular responses.

Dynamic shear stimulation dramatically increased PRG4 secretion by 3-4 times compared to controls and static compression, while also promoting production of larger, more functional PRG4 molecules. Additionally, shear forces activated PRG4 production in cartilage cells located deeper within the tissue (200-400 micrometers from the surface), expanding the population of cells contributing to joint lubrication.

These findings demonstrate that sliding joint motion specifically stimulates the production of lubricating molecules in cartilage, suggesting that appropriate mechanical loading may help maintain healthy joint lubrication.

SHEAR AND COMPRESSION DIFFERENTIALLY REGULATE CLUSTERS OF FUNCTIONALLY RELATED TEMPORAL TRANSCRIPTION PATTERNS IN CARTILAGE TISSUE.

DOI: 10.1074/jbc.M510858200 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:42:28
This study investigated how different types of mechanical loading affect gene expression in cartilage tissue to better understand how physical forces regulate chondrocyte behavior. The researchers applied dynamic compression, dynamic shear, or static compression to cartilage explants for 1-24 hours and measured expression levels of 25 genes involved in cartilage maintenance using real-time PCR and clustering analysis.

The key findings showed that genes with similar functions responded together to mechanical loading, but the specific expression patterns varied significantly depending on the type of force applied. Notably, cyclic loading (both compression and shear) stimulated matrix protein production after 24 hours, while static compression suppressed it, suggesting that rhythmic mechanical stimulation is crucial for maintaining healthy cartilage matrix synthesis.

ENHANCED MATRIX SYNTHESIS IN DE NOVO, SCAFFOLD FREE CARTILAGE-LIKE TISSUE SUBJECTED TO COMPRESSION AND SHEAR.

DOI: 10.1002/bit.21052 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:42:23
This study aimed to enhance matrix production in scaffold-free, engineered cartilage tissue using mechanical loading to improve tissue constructs for cartilage repair. The researchers developed a novel loading machine with a roller mechanism that can apply both compression and shear forces to up to 20 tissue constructs simultaneously, testing different loading patterns including continuous and intermittent cycles. The key findings showed that optimal loading (0.5 N force) rapidly increased collagen II and aggrecan gene expression within 1-2 hours, and intermittent loading with pauses between cycles increased glycosaminoglycan content by up to 60% after 4 days, while continuous loading without pauses actually decreased matrix content compared to controls. The results suggest that mechanical stimulation protocols combining compression and shear with rest periods can significantly improve engineered cartilage tissue properties before implantation.

THE EFFECT OF REMOVAL OF THE DISC ON THE FRICTION IN THE TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joms.2006.04.017 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:42:17
This study investigated whether the articular disc contributes to the low friction levels observed in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) compared to other joints. The researchers measured friction coefficients in intact porcine TMJs (n=10) and then repeated measurements after surgically removing the disc, also testing the effects of prolonged loading and hyaluronic acid application. The results showed that disc removal more than doubled the friction coefficient from 0.0177 to 0.0361, with friction continuing to increase with longer loading duration (exceeding 0.0635 after 30 minutes), while hyaluronic acid provided only modest friction reduction. The findings confirm that the TMJ disc plays a crucial role in maintaining low joint friction, likely by improving surface congruity and enhancing synovial fluid lubrication.

LONG-TERM CYCLICAL IN VIVO LOADING INCREASES CARTILAGE PROTEOGLYCAN CONTENT IN A SPATIALLY SPECIFIC MANNER: AN INFRARED MICROSPECTROSCOPIC IMAGING AND POLARIZED LIGHT MICROSCOPY STUDY.

DOI: 10.1186/ar2040 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:42:11
This study investigated how prolonged mechanical loading affects the composition of joint cartilage by subjecting rabbit forepaw joints to 80 hours of repetitive flexing at 1 Hz with 1-2 MPa contact pressure. The researchers used infrared microspectroscopy and polarized light microscopy to analyze proteoglycan and collagen content across different cartilage zones (superficial, mid, and deep) in loaded joints compared to unloaded control joints. The main finding was a significant 46% increase in proteoglycan content specifically in the deep zone of cartilage, while collagen content and cartilage thickness remained unchanged. These results suggest that long-term cyclical loading selectively stimulates proteoglycan synthesis in cartilage regions experiencing high hydrostatic pressure, which could inform strategies for preventing overuse injuries or developing joint therapies.

THE EFFECT OF CYCLIC DEFORMATION AND SOLUTE BINDING ON SOLUTE TRANSPORT IN CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2006.10.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:42:06
This study investigated how cyclic mechanical loading and solute binding affect the transport of nutrients into cartilage tissue. The researchers developed a mathematical model that incorporates both mechanical deformation and chemical binding reactions to simulate how molecules like IGF-I move through cartilage during loading. The key finding was that solute binding significantly influences transport, particularly at low IGF-I concentrations found in joint fluid. The most dramatic enhancement in nutrient uptake (up to 25% increase) occurred with high-strain loading (10%) at high frequencies (1 Hz) over the first 5 hours, suggesting that vigorous exercise could improve cartilage nutrition.

SERUM LEVELS OF CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN (COMP) INCREASE TEMPORARILY AFTER PHYSICAL EXERCISE IN PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2474-7-98 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:42:00
This study investigated how physical exercise affects serum levels of COMP, a potential biomarker for cartilage breakdown in knee osteoarthritis. Researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial with 58 patients comparing exercise versus rest, plus a detailed follow-up study with 7 patients tracking COMP levels at frequent intervals before, during, and after exercise sessions. The main findings showed that COMP levels increased significantly immediately after exercise but returned to baseline within 30 minutes, while levels decreased during rest periods. Importantly, there was no long-term increase in COMP after the 6-week exercise program, suggesting that supervised exercise produces only temporary changes in cartilage turnover markers and that blood samples for COMP analysis should be collected after at least 30 minutes of rest.

BACULOVIRUS TRANSDUCTION OF RAT ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES: ROLES OF CELL CYCLE.

DOI: 10.1002/jgm.994 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:41:54
This study investigated how the cell cycle affects baculovirus gene delivery efficiency in rat cartilage cells (chondrocytes) for potential cartilage tissue engineering applications. The researchers compared gene expression using enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) between actively dividing chondrocytes and non-dividing (quiescent) cells, measuring virus uptake, DNA transport into the nucleus, and DNA methylation patterns. They found that baculovirus transduction efficiency is strongly linked to cell cycle phase, with cells in G2/M phase showing twice the gene expression compared to cycling cells, while quiescent cells had poor gene expression despite good virus uptake due to impaired nuclear transport and increased DNA methylation. These findings reveal important limitations for using baculovirus in cartilage tissue engineering, since cartilage cells in the body are typically quiescent and would be less responsive to this gene delivery method.

MRI AND CLINICAL EVALUATION OF COLLAGEN-COVERED AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION (CACI) AT TWO YEARS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.knee.2006.11.009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:41:48
This study evaluated the clinical and imaging outcomes of collagen-covered autologous chondrocyte implantation (CACI) in 31 patients with cartilage defects over two years. The researchers used clinical assessments (KOOS scores and 6-minute walk tests) and MRI scoring to measure treatment success, with 75% of patients having complete MRI follow-up data. Both clinical function and MRI scores showed significant improvement from 3 to 24 months post-surgery, with most clinical gains occurring in the first 12 months and complications including 8% hypertrophic tissue growth and one partial graft failure. While MRI and clinical outcomes were statistically related, the correlation was only weak to moderate, meaning MRI cannot reliably predict functional outcomes following CACI treatment.

EFFECT OF EXERCISE ON SERUM CONCENTRATION OF CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN IN THOROUGHBREDS.

DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.68.2.134 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:41:42
This study investigated how exercise affects serum levels of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), a biomarker of cartilage metabolism, in Thoroughbred horses. The researchers conducted two experiments: one examining acute changes in COMP levels after a single exercise session in 15 horses, and another tracking COMP changes during a 9-stage training program in 27 horses, with blood samples collected at multiple time points. The study found that COMP levels increased significantly 1 and 5 hours after acute exercise before returning to baseline by 24 hours, and that baseline COMP concentrations progressively increased with training intensity and duration. These findings suggest that exercise enhances COMP release into circulation and may alter the underlying rate of cartilage turnover in athletic horses.

LASER-ASSISTED STRAIGHTENING OF DEFORMED CARTILAGE: NUMERICAL MODEL.

DOI: 10.1002/lsm.20467 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:41:36
This study developed a computer model to understand how laser heating can straighten deviated nasal cartilage, addressing the need for better treatment approaches for one of the most common surgical procedures. The researchers created a finite-element model of septal cartilage with a 2mm bulge and simulated laser irradiation patterns (1-3 lines) of varying sizes, calculating stress distributions and reaction forces before and after treatment. The model showed that laser treatment creates highly non-uniform stress patterns, with the reaction force (resistance to straightening) decreasing as the width and depth of laser-treated zones increased. Optimal placement of three laser zones (3mm wide, 2mm deep) on the convex side of the deviation achieved up to 98% reduction in reaction force, demonstrating that strategic laser treatment could significantly improve cartilage reshaping outcomes.

THE CROSS-SECTIONAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FORTNIGHTLY EXERCISE AND KNEE CARTILAGE PROPERTIES IN HEALTHY ADULT WOMEN IN MIDLIFE.

DOI: 10.1097/gme.0b013e31802f316b · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:41:30
This cross-sectional study examined whether exercise participation is associated with knee cartilage health in 176 healthy midlife women (aged 40-67 years) without knee osteoarthritis. The researchers used MRI to measure tibial cartilage volume and defects in the dominant knee, and assessed exercise habits through questionnaires focusing on moderate-to-vigorous intensity exercise (causing increased breathing and heart rate for ≥20 minutes) performed over two-week periods. The key finding was that women who participated in this level of exercise had significantly greater medial tibial cartilage volume, with a trend toward greater volume with more frequent exercise, though no association was found with cartilage defects. These results suggest that regular moderate-to-vigorous exercise may help maintain knee cartilage health in midlife women, supporting the potential protective effects of physical activity against age-related joint degeneration.

DIFFERENT RESPONSE OF ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTE SUBPOPULATIONS TO SURFACE MOTION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2007.03.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:41:23
This study investigated how surface motion affects different chondrocyte populations from bovine articular cartilage, specifically examining their production of key lubricating molecules (proteoglycan 4 and hyaluronan). Researchers cultured chondrocytes from superficial and deep cartilage zones in 3D scaffolds and applied mechanical stimulation using a bioreactor that mimicked natural joint movement with surface motion and compression over three days. Mechanical loading enhanced gene expression of lubrication-related molecules in all cell types, with deep zone cells showing the strongest response for proteoglycan 4 and superficial zone cells for hyaluronan synthase 2. Notably, full-thickness chondrocyte populations (containing both superficial and deep cells together) produced the most hyaluronan, suggesting that mixing different cartilage cell types may be more effective for tissue engineering applications than using isolated cell populations.

IMPACTION AFFECTS CELL VIABILITY IN OSTEOCHONDRAL TISSUES DURING TRANSPLANTATION.

DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1248028 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:41:15
This study investigated how the mechanical forces during osteochondral transplantation surgery affect cartilage cell survival. The researchers removed and reimplanted osteochondral plugs using instrumented surgical tools to measure the forces applied during impaction, then assessed cell viability immediately and up to 7 days after the procedure. The surgical impaction process required an average of 18 taps per plug, with forces reaching up to 307 N and loading rates up to 133 kN/s, and this mechanical trauma significantly reduced cell viability in the impacted plugs compared to controls at all time points. The findings suggest that surgeons should carefully control the forces used during osteochondral transplantation procedures to preserve cell viability and potentially improve graft success.

MECHANICAL RESPONSE OF POROUS SCAFFOLDS FOR CARTILAGE ENGINEERING.

DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.931297 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:41:09
This study investigated how different additives affect the mechanical properties of porous collagen scaffolds designed for cartilage tissue engineering. The researchers tested cross-linked collagen I scaffolds modified with hyaluronic acid, hydroxyapatite nanoparticles, or chitosan nanofibers under tensile loading conditions at 37°C, using statistical analysis to evaluate significance. The key findings showed that hyaluronic acid made scaffolds more flexible (lower stiffness) but stronger, while both hydroxyapatite and chitosan nanofibers significantly increased scaffold stiffness by 10-fold and 4-fold respectively, with chitosan also enhancing deformation capacity and providing better cell growth support. The authors concluded that chitosan nanofiber-reinforced scaffolds offer the best combination of mechanical protection for stem cells and biological performance, maintaining stability for over 10 weeks.

DETERMINATION OF REAL-TIME IN-VIVO CARTILAGE CONTACT DEFORMATION IN THE ANKLE JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2007.07.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:41:01
This study aimed to measure real-time cartilage deformation in healthy human ankle joints during loading to better understand cartilage function and factors that may contribute to cartilage breakdown. The researchers used a combination of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and dual-orthogonal fluoroscopy to track cartilage contact area and peak compression strain in four ankle joints under constant loads of 700-820 N over 300 seconds. The results showed that cartilage contact strains rapidly increased to 24-38% within the first 20 seconds of loading, with minimal changes after 20 seconds and near-zero change rates beyond 50 seconds. These findings demonstrate that ankle cartilage undergoes dramatic deformation immediately upon loading but stabilizes within one minute, providing valuable real-time data that can be used to improve computer models of joint mechanics and cartilage stress analysis.

SHEAR- AND COMPRESSION-INDUCED CHONDROCYTE TRANSCRIPTION REQUIRES MAPK ACTIVATION IN CARTILAGE EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1074/jbc.M708670200 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:40:55
This study investigated how mechanical forces activate cellular signaling pathways in cartilage cells (chondrocytes) and influence gene expression related to cartilage maintenance. The researchers applied three types of mechanical loading (static compression, dynamic compression, and dynamic shear) to bovine cartilage samples and measured the activation of MAPK signaling proteins (ERK1/2 and p38) using Western blotting, followed by gene expression analysis using real-time PCR with and without MAPK inhibitors. They found that mechanical loading activated MAPK pathways with distinct time courses - ERK1/2 showed sustained activation while p38 had delayed but stronger activation - and that this MAPK activation was essential for mechanical regulation of most genes studied, including those encoding key cartilage proteins (aggrecan, type II collagen) and enzymes involved in cartilage breakdown (MMP13, ADAMTS5). The findings demonstrate that MAPK pathways serve as a critical cellular mechanism through which mechanical forces are converted into biological responses that regulate cartilage composition and health.

IN VIVO T(1RHO) MAPPING IN CARTILAGE USING 3D MAGNETIZATION-PREPARED ANGLE-MODULATED PARTITIONED K-SPACE SPOILED GRADIENT ECHO SNAPSHOTS (3D MAPSS).

DOI: 10.1002/mrm.21414 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:40:48
This study developed a new 3D MRI technique called MAPSS (Magnetization-Prepared Angle-Modulated Partitioned k-space Spoiled Gradient Echo Snapshots) to improve T1ρ mapping of cartilage, addressing limitations of existing methods including high radiation exposure, poor signal quality, and T1 contamination effects. The technique uses specialized pulse sequences with RF cycling and variable flip angles to capture high-resolution cartilage images while minimizing technical artifacts. Testing in healthy volunteers showed T1ρ values of 42.4 ± 5.2 ms in cartilage with excellent reproducibility (average coefficient of variation of 1.6%). The MAPSS method demonstrated significantly lower fitting errors compared to conventional sequences, suggesting improved accuracy for quantitative cartilage assessment.

INTRA-ARTICULAR TEMPERATURES OF THE KNEE IN SPORTS - AN IN-VIVO STUDY OF JOGGING AND ALPINE SKIING.

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2474-9-46 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:40:42
This study aimed to investigate how intra-articular knee temperatures change during different sports activities and ambient conditions. The researchers inserted temperature probes into the knee joints of 6 healthy men and measured temperatures every 15 minutes during 60 minutes of jogging (at 19°C room temperature) and alpine skiing (at -3°C outside temperature), while also assessing joint function and laxity. During jogging, intra-articular temperatures progressively increased by up to 6.1°C after 60 minutes, while skiing caused temperature decreases of up to 3.6°C at 45 minutes. The findings demonstrate that knee joint temperatures respond differently to various sports activities and ambient conditions, with jogging causing significant warming and cold-weather skiing leading to joint cooling, though neither activity affected joint function or laxity.

DESIGNING 3D PHOTOPOLYMER HYDROGELS TO REGULATE BIOMECHANICAL CUES AND TISSUE GROWTH FOR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING.

DOI: 10.1007/s11095-008-9619-y · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:40:36
This study aimed to investigate how the structure and chemistry of synthetic hydrogels influence biomechanical signaling and cartilage cell behavior for tissue engineering applications. The researchers encapsulated cartilage cells (chondrocytes) in poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels with varying crosslinking densities and tested different mechanical loading patterns (continuous vs. intermittent), while also incorporating RGD peptides to promote cell adhesion. Key findings showed that gel crosslinking density controlled cell deformation, dynamic loading generally promoted tissue-building (anabolic) activity, and loading patterns differentially affected tissue breakdown (catabolic) processes—with continuous loading inhibiting breakdown and intermittent loading stimulating it. The study demonstrates that manipulating hydrogel properties and mechanical conditions can effectively control cellular responses for cartilage tissue engineering.

CHANGE IN KNEE CARTILAGE T2 IN RESPONSE TO MECHANICAL LOADING.

DOI: 10.1002/jmri.21418 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:40:30
This study aimed to test whether MRI with mechanical loading could assess knee cartilage function by measuring T2 values as an indicator of cartilage matrix changes. The researchers used 3.0T MRI to obtain T2 maps of knee cartilage in 22 healthy volunteers, comparing images taken without load versus under static compression equal to 50% of body weight. The key finding was that mechanical loading caused significant decreases in cartilage T2 values (4.3-7.6% reduction), with location-specific patterns - medial femoral cartilage showed changes only in areas directly contacting tibial cartilage, while tibial cartilage showed widespread T2 decreases in both medial and lateral compartments. The study demonstrates that MRI with mechanical loading is clinically feasible and can detect site-specific cartilage responses to load, potentially offering a new tool for evaluating cartilage health and load-bearing function.

ALTERED FUNCTIONAL LOADING CAUSES DIFFERENTIAL EFFECTS IN THE SUBCHONDRAL BONE AND CONDYLAR CARTILAGE IN THE TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT FROM YOUNG MICE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2008.05.021 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:40:23
This study aimed to develop and characterize a mouse model of altered temporomandibular joint (TMJ) loading to understand how mechanical stress changes affect joint tissues. The researchers used 134 young female mice, comparing normal loading (hard pellet diet) versus altered loading (soft diet plus regular incisor trimming) over 2-6 weeks, then analyzed cartilage thickness, bone structure, and gene expression. The altered loading consistently reduced condylar cartilage thickness throughout the study period, while subchondral bone changes (decreased bone volume and trabecular thickness) occurred only transiently at 4 weeks. Gene expression analysis revealed significant downregulation of key cartilage and bone-related genes (SOX9, collagen types II and X, and others) at 4-6 weeks, indicating that reduced mechanical loading impairs both cartilage maintenance and bone density in the mouse TMJ.

REAL-TIME MONITORING OF FORCE RESPONSE MEASURED IN MECHANICALLY STIMULATED TISSUE-ENGINEERED CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1525-1594.2009.00723.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:40:16
This study aimed to develop a real-time monitoring system to track the mechanical development of tissue-engineered cartilage and understand how mechanical stimulation influences structural changes during early development. The researchers built a specialized bioreactor that continuously measured force responses in cartilage constructs made from chondrocyte-seeded PEG hydrogels subjected to cyclic compression (15% strain, 1 Hz) over 14 days. The key finding was that mechanically stimulated constructs achieved significantly higher stiffness (12.7 kPa) compared to unstimulated controls (10.7 kPa), with most of the stiffness increase occurring rapidly in the final 2 days as a 20% jump in force response. This real-time monitoring approach revealed that cartilage construct development follows distinct milestones rather than gradual changes, suggesting this technology could serve as a non-invasive tool for tracking engineered tissue maturation.

DOES LOADING INFLUENCE THE SEVERITY OF CARTILAGE DEGENERATION IN THE CANINE GROOVE-MODEL OF OA?

DOI: 10.1002/jor.20897 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:40:10
This study investigated whether increased mechanical loading affects the severity of osteoarthritis (OA) development in a canine groove model. Researchers induced OA in one knee of ten female beagle dogs and divided them into two groups: one with forced loading (achieved by immobilizing the opposite limb 3 times weekly for 4 hours) and one without forced loading, then evaluated joint tissues after 20 weeks. Both groups developed characteristic OA changes in cartilage structure and metabolism, with the forced-loading group showing statistically significant but small increases in some severity parameters compared to the normal loading group. The findings suggest that while increased mechanical loading is not necessary for OA development in this model, it does contribute modestly to disease severity.

STRESS RELAXATION BEHAVIOR OF MANDIBULAR CONDYLAR CARTILAGE UNDER HIGH-STRAIN COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1115/1.3118776 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:40:05
This study investigated the mechanical properties of mandibular condylar cartilage across different regions to better understand how this tissue responds to compression forces during jaw function. The researchers tested porcine cartilage samples from five regions (anterior, central, lateral, medial, and posterior) using unconfined compression tests and measured both elastic and equilibrium moduli through stress relaxation analysis. The key findings showed that the posterior region was significantly stiffer than other areas, being 1.4 times stiffer than middle regions and about 2.4 times stiffer than the anterior region, with cartilage thickness positively correlating with stiffness. The mechanical behavior of condylar cartilage under compression was similar to that of the TMJ disc, suggesting these tissues may have comparable biomechanical roles in joint function.

PARAMETRIC FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF PHYSICAL STIMULI RESULTING FROM MECHANICAL STIMULATION OF TISSUE ENGINEERED CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1115/1.3128672 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:39:59
This study aimed to understand why mechanical stimulation of tissue-engineered cartilage produces highly variable results across different experimental systems by investigating the physical stimuli that cells actually experience within different scaffold materials. The researchers used finite element modeling to simulate 360 different combinations of scaffold stiffness and permeability, applying the most commonly used loading conditions identified from a literature review (10% peak-to-peak strain at 1 Hz).

The modeling revealed that different scaffold materials (PEG, chitosan, collagen, KLD-12) create dramatically different mechanical environments for cells, even under identical loading conditions - with PEG scaffolds generating the highest fluid pressures and velocities, while collagen scaffolds produced the lowest pressures. The study found that scaffold stiffness primarily controlled pressure generation, while both stiffness and permeability influenced fluid velocities, explaining why the same mechanical loading protocol can produce vastly different biological responses depending on the scaffold material used.

A FIBER REINFORCED POROELASTIC MODEL OF NANOINDENTATION OF PORCINE COSTAL CARTILAGE: A COMBINED EXPERIMENTAL AND FINITE ELEMENT APPROACH.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2008.09.003 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:39:52
This study aimed to determine whether nanoindentation testing combined with advanced modeling can measure physiologically relevant mechanical properties of cartilage beyond basic elastic characteristics. The researchers performed nanoindentation load relaxation tests on porcine costal cartilage at different depths and loading rates, then used finite element simulations with a fiber reinforced poroelastic (FRPE) model to extract material properties from the experimental data. The study found that nanoindentation behavior differs from bulk indentation testing, with the immediate mechanical response primarily determined by the non-fibrillar matrix elasticity and fiber volume fraction, while the time-dependent response was mainly controlled by fluid permeability. The FRPE model successfully captured the complex time-dependent mechanical behavior of cartilage, achieving excellent agreement between experimental and computational results (R² = 0.98±0.01) across multiple testing conditions.

DYNAMIC MECHANICAL LOADING ENHANCES FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES OF TISSUE-ENGINEERED CARTILAGE USING MATURE CANINE CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.TEA.2009.0482 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:39:46
This study aimed to develop an effective functional tissue engineering (FTE) protocol for creating cartilage replacements using mature canine chondrocytes, since previous protocols successful with young bovine cells failed with adult cells. The researchers seeded adult canine chondrocytes in agarose hydrogels and applied two types of dynamic mechanical loading using custom bioreactors: unconfined compression (1 Hz, 10% deformation) starting at different time points, and sliding contact loading (0.5 Hz, 10% deformation) that mimics joint movement. Both loading methods significantly increased the tissue's stiffness (Young's modulus) compared to unloaded controls by day 28, with some constructs achieving or exceeding the mechanical properties of native canine knee cartilage, though biochemical content (proteins and DNA) remained unchanged. The study successfully demonstrates that continuous growth factor supplementation combined with mechanical loading can effectively engineer cartilage tissue using clinically relevant adult chondrocytes, representing an important step toward translating laboratory findings to clinical applications.

MATRIX METALLOPROTEINASE-3 IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IS UPREGULATED BY JOINT IMMOBILIZATION AND SUPPRESSED BY PASSIVE JOINT MOTION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2010.02.004 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:39:39
This study investigated how joint loading affects matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) expression in rat knee cartilage and its role in cartilage breakdown. Researchers immobilized rat hindlimbs for up to 21 days, applied passive joint motion as a treatment, and used MMP-3 inhibitor injections to test the enzyme's role in cartilage degradation. The key findings showed that joint immobilization rapidly increased MMP-3 expression (within 6 hours) and sustained this elevation throughout the study period, leading to cartilage proteoglycan loss within 7 days, with the most severe effects occurring in the superficial cartilage layer of the medial knee compartment. Importantly, just one hour of daily passive joint motion prevented both the MMP-3 upregulation and cartilage degradation, while MMP-3 inhibitor injections also protected against cartilage breakdown, demonstrating that mechanical loading is crucial for maintaining cartilage health.

EFFECTS OF IDEALIZED JOINT GEOMETRY ON FINITE ELEMENT PREDICTIONS OF CARTILAGE CONTACT STRESSES IN THE HIP.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2010.01.010 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:39:32
This study investigated how geometric simplifications in computer models affect predictions of cartilage stress in the hip joint. Researchers compared a validated subject-specific finite element model with simplified versions that used idealized bone shapes (spherical or conchoid), smoothed cartilage surfaces, and rigid bone assumptions under walking and stair-climbing loads. The simplified models significantly underestimated peak contact pressures by up to 50% and overestimated contact areas compared to the anatomically accurate model, while rigid bone assumptions led to overestimated pressures. These findings demonstrate that geometric simplifications commonly used in hip joint modeling can dramatically alter stress predictions, highlighting the importance of maintaining anatomical detail for accurate biomechanical analysis.

HIGH-FIELD MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING ASSESSMENT OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE BEFORE AND AFTER MARATHON RUNNING: DOES LONG-DISTANCE RUNNING LEAD TO CARTILAGE DAMAGE?

DOI: 10.1177/0363546510372799 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:39:27
This study investigated whether marathon running causes detectable changes in knee cartilage that could indicate early damage. The researchers used advanced 3-Tesla MRI with specialized sequences (T1ρ and T2 mapping) to scan 10 marathon runners before, immediately after, and 3 months following a marathon, comparing results to 10 matched controls. Marathon runners showed significantly elevated T1ρ and T2 values throughout most knee cartilage areas immediately post-race, indicating biochemical changes in cartilage structure, with the patellofemoral joint and medial compartment most affected. While T2 values mostly returned to baseline after 3 months, T1ρ values remained elevated, suggesting that marathon running may cause persistent cartilage changes detectable by advanced MRI techniques.

FEASIBILITY OF TEXTURE ANALYSIS FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF BIOCHEMICAL CHANGES IN MENISCAL TISSUE ON T1 MAPS CALCULATED FROM DELAYED GADOLINIUM-ENHANCED MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING OF CARTILAGE DATA: COMPARISON WITH CONVENTIONAL RELAXATION TIME MEASUREMENTS.

DOI: 10.1097/RLI.0b013e3181ea363b · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:39:20
This study investigated whether texture analysis of MRI scans could detect biochemical changes in meniscal tissue, comparing this approach to standard relaxation time measurements using delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI (dGEMRIC). Ten healthy volunteers underwent 3T MRI scanning of their right knee 90 minutes after gadolinium injection, both at baseline and during mechanical compression (50% body weight), with researchers analyzing the posterior horn of the medial meniscus using conventional T1 relaxation times and advanced texture analysis features. Both conventional T1 measurements and several texture features (including angular second moment, entropy, and wavelet transform parameters) showed significant changes between baseline and compression conditions, with good reliability for most measurements. The findings demonstrate that texture analysis is feasible for detecting biochemical changes in meniscal tissue and may provide complementary information to standard MRI relaxation time measurements, though further research is needed to determine whether the observed changes result from mechanical compression, prolonged contrast uptake, or both factors.

PHYSIOLOGICAL LOADING OF JOINTS PREVENTS CARTILAGE DEGRADATION THROUGH CITED2.

DOI: 10.1096/fj.10-164277 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:39:13
This study investigated whether CITED2, a mechanosensitive protein, mediates the protective effects of moderate joint loading on cartilage health. The researchers used rat hind-limb immobilization models and applied controlled pressure to human cartilage cells in laboratory culture, measuring changes in CITED2 and matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) levels. They found that moderate mechanical loading upregulates CITED2, which then suppresses MMP-1 (a cartilage-degrading enzyme) by competing with other proteins that normally activate MMP-1 production. The study identifies a novel molecular pathway involving CITED2 and p38δ signaling that explains how normal physical activity maintains healthy cartilage, while both excessive and insufficient loading lead to cartilage breakdown.

A NOVEL METHOD FOR DETERMINING ARTICULAR CARTILAGE CHONDROCYTE MECHANICS IN VIVO.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2010.11.031 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:39:07
This study developed a new method to measure how cartilage cells (chondrocytes) deform during natural joint loading in living animals, addressing a major limitation of previous research that only studied isolated cells or tissue samples outside the body. The researchers used two-photon laser microscopy to observe chondrocytes in exposed mouse knee joints while applying near-physiological loads through electrical stimulation of leg muscles, achieving high measurement accuracy (1-3% error) and reliability. When joints were loaded to pressures similar to normal activity (1.9 MPa), chondrocytes showed immediate deformation with 17% reduction in cell height and 22% loss in cell volume, which gradually recovered over several minutes after load removal. This technique provides the first direct measurements of chondrocyte mechanics under physiological conditions in living joints, offering new insights into how cartilage cells respond to mechanical stress in their natural environment.

MODERATE LOADING OF THE HUMAN OSTEOARTHRITIC KNEE JOINT LEADS TO LOWERING OF INTRAARTICULAR CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN.

DOI: 10.1007/s00296-010-1716-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:39:00
This study investigated how moderate exercise directly affects cartilage in osteoarthritic knee joints by measuring biochemical markers in synovial fluid, blood, and urine. Eleven participants with knee osteoarthritis performed 30 minutes of one-legged knee extension exercise at 60% of their maximum strength, with samples collected before and after exercise to measure cartilage turnover markers including COMP, aggrecan, CTX-II, and IL-6. The key finding was a significant decrease in cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) levels in the synovial fluid following exercise, while other cartilage markers and inflammatory markers remained unchanged. These results suggest that moderate loading exercise may have beneficial effects on cartilage metabolism in osteoarthritic joints, as evidenced by the reduction in this specific cartilage breakdown marker.

CLINICAL AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING-BASED OUTCOMES TO 5 YEARS AFTER MATRIX-INDUCED AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION TO ADDRESS ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFECTS IN THE KNEE.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546510390476 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:38:55
This prospective study evaluated the 5-year clinical and imaging outcomes of matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) in 41 patients with knee cartilage defects. Patients underwent comprehensive clinical assessments (including knee function scores, quality of life measures, and physical tests) and MRI evaluations at multiple timepoints following surgery and structured rehabilitation. The study found significant improvements in all clinical outcome measures and MRI-based graft repair scores, with 67% of grafts showing complete defect filling and 89% demonstrating good to excellent repair at 5 years. High patient satisfaction rates were reported, with 98% satisfied with pain relief and 86% with improved daily function, suggesting MACI is an effective medium-term treatment option for knee cartilage defects.

INTRAARTICULAR INJECTION OF HYALURONAN PREVENTS CARTILAGE EROSION, PERIARTICULAR FIBROSIS AND MECHANICAL ALLODYNIA AND NORMALIZES STANCE TIME IN MURINE KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1186/ar3286 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:38:49
This study investigated how hyaluronan (HA) injection protects against osteoarthritis progression in a mouse model. Researchers induced OA in mouse knees using TGF-β1 injection followed by treadmill running, then treated animals with either HA or saline control and measured gait changes, pain sensitivity, and joint tissue damage over 14 days. A single HA injection effectively prevented cartilage erosion, reduced tissue scarring around the joint, normalized walking patterns (particularly stance time), and provided better pain relief compared to saline control. The findings suggest that HA works by restoring normal joint mechanics and inhibiting harmful cellular processes, offering new insights into why this treatment helps osteoarthritis patients.

THE EFFECT OF LOADING AND MATERIAL ON THE BIOMECHANICAL PROPERTIES AND VITALITY OF BOVINE CARTILAGE IN VITRO.

DOI: 10.5301/JABB.2011.6472 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:38:44
This study developed a new methodology to evaluate how different implant materials affect cartilage properties and cell survival during prolonged loading conditions. Researchers cultured bovine cartilage samples under static compression (0.25 MPa) for 270 hours in four conditions: unloaded (FREE), minimally loaded (RESTR), loaded with metal plate (MEW), and loaded with polyurethane (PUW), then measured biomechanical properties and cell viability using fluorescent staining.

The key findings showed significant differences between materials: polyurethane-loaded samples maintained biomechanical properties closest to unloaded cartilage, while metal contact caused substantial stiffening. Cell viability was highest in unloaded samples (87%), followed by restrained (66%), polyurethane-loaded (35%), and metal-loaded samples (3%), indicating polyurethane is more biocompatible than stainless steel for cartilage contact applications.

KNEE JOINT PRESERVATION WITH COMBINED NEUTRALISING HIGH TIBIAL OSTEOTOMY (HTO) AND MATRIX-INDUCED AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION (MACI) IN YOUNGER PATIENTS WITH MEDIAL KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A CASE SERIES WITH PROSPECTIVE CLINICAL AND MRI FOLLOW-UP OVER 5 YEARS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.knee.2011.06.005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:38:37
This study investigated a combined surgical approach for younger patients (mean age 47) with medial knee osteoarthritis and varus alignment, combining high tibial osteotomy (HTO) to correct leg alignment with matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) to repair damaged cartilage. The researchers followed 18 patients for 5 years using clinical outcome scores (KOOS), walking tests, and MRI imaging to assess cartilage repair quality.

Clinically, patients showed significant improvements in knee function that were largely maintained at 5 years, though some measures declined over time. However, the cartilage repair results were disappointing, with only 33% of patients showing good quality cartilage regrowth at 5 years, and MRI scores declining after initial improvement at 2 years, indicating that while the procedure was safe and provided clinical benefits, the biological cartilage repair component had limited long-term success.

CYCLIC LOADING INCREASES FRICTION AND CHANGES CARTILAGE SURFACE INTEGRITY IN LUBRICIN-MUTANT MOUSE KNEES.

DOI: 10.1002/art.33337 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:38:31
This study investigated how lubricin gene dosage affects joint friction and cartilage surface integrity under mechanical stress in mouse knee joints. Researchers used mice with varying numbers of functioning lubricin genes (0, 1, or 2 copies) and subjected their joints to 26 hours of cyclic loading using a custom pendulum device, measuring friction coefficients at multiple time points and comparing them to unloaded control joints. The key findings showed that mice completely lacking lubricin had significantly higher baseline friction and continuous friction increases during loading, while mice with one functioning lubricin gene appeared normal at baseline but developed significantly higher friction after prolonged loading compared to normal mice. These results suggest that lubricin dosage is critical for maintaining joint lubrication under mechanical stress, with potential clinical implications for patients with conditions that reduce lubricin levels.

MECHANICAL ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTS OF CEPHALIC TRIM ON LOWER LATERAL CARTILAGE STABILITY.

DOI: 10.1001/archfacial.2011.1354 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:38:24
This study investigated how surgical removal of cartilage (cephalic trim) affects the mechanical stability of the lower lateral cartilage in the nose. The researchers used porcine cartilage samples shaped to match human nasal cartilage dimensions and performed mechanical testing with cantilever deformation tests at different locations, combined with finite element modeling to analyze stress distribution. The key finding was that cartilage stability significantly decreased only when trimmed to 4mm width, particularly at the most lateral position 8mm from the midline, while 6mm width maintained adequate stability. These results support clinical guidelines recommending preservation of at least 6mm of cartilage width during nasal surgery to maintain proper structural support and avoid poor cosmetic outcomes.

JOINT IMMOBILIZATION PREVENTS MURINE OSTEOARTHRITIS AND REVEALS THE HIGHLY MECHANOSENSITIVE NATURE OF PROTEASE EXPRESSION IN VIVO.

DOI: 10.1002/art.34420 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:38:18
This study investigated how mechanical joint loading influences the expression of cartilage-degrading enzymes in osteoarthritis (OA) development. Researchers surgically induced OA in mice by cutting a ligament, then analyzed gene expression changes in joint tissues using microarray and PCR techniques, while comparing joints that were immobilized (through anesthesia or nerve cutting) versus those allowed normal movement. The results showed that many inflammatory and protease genes, including the key cartilage-degrading enzyme ADAMTS-5, were rapidly upregulated within 6 hours of OA induction, but this gene activation was largely prevented when joints were immobilized. Notably, joint immobilization through nerve cutting completely prevented OA development for up to 12 weeks, demonstrating that mechanical loading is essential for OA progression and suggesting that targeting the joint's mechanical sensing mechanisms could offer new therapeutic approaches.

ARTHROSCOPIC MATRIX-INDUCED AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION: 2-YEAR OUTCOMES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2011.12.022 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:38:11
This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of a new arthroscopic technique for matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) to repair knee cartilage defects. The researchers followed 20 patients for 24 months after surgery, assessing clinical outcomes using standardized questionnaires and functional tests, while monitoring cartilage repair using MRI scans at multiple time points. All clinical measures showed significant improvement throughout the follow-up period, including reduced pain, better knee function, and improved quality of life scores. MRI results demonstrated good cartilage repair, with 90% of patients showing good to excellent graft filling and 70% achieving good composite repair scores at 24 months, suggesting this arthroscopic MACI technique is both safe and effective for treating knee cartilage defects.

EFFECTS OF PERFUSION AND DYNAMIC LOADING ON HUMAN NEOCARTILAGE FORMATION IN ALGINATE HYDROGELS.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.TEA.2011.0506 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:38:05
This study investigated whether combining perfusion and dynamic loading would enhance cartilage tissue formation compared to static culture conditions using human articular chondrocytes in alginate hydrogels. Researchers cultured the constructs under three conditions: free-swelling static culture, perfusion alone (100 μL/min), or perfusion plus dynamic compression (20% strain, 0.5 Hz, 1 hour daily), then analyzed gene expression, matrix production, and mechanical properties over 14 days. Both bioreactor conditions significantly increased collagen type II gene expression (at least 3-fold) compared to static culture, but paradoxically led to lower overall glycosaminoglycan retention and synthesis despite enhanced matrix-forming gene activity. The findings suggest that while bioreactor conditions stimulate cartilage-forming responses, they also increase tissue breakdown processes, indicating that optimal culture parameters balancing tissue formation and degradation still need to be determined for human cartilage engineering.

A RANDOMIZED TRIAL COMPARING ACCELERATED AND TRADITIONAL APPROACHES TO POSTOPERATIVE WEIGHTBEARING REHABILITATION AFTER MATRIX-INDUCED AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION: FINDINGS AT 5 YEARS.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546512445167 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:37:58
This randomized controlled trial compared accelerated versus traditional weightbearing rehabilitation protocols following matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) surgery in 70 patients with knee cartilage defects. The accelerated group reached full weightbearing at 8 weeks compared to 11 weeks for the traditional group, with both groups assessed using clinical scores (KOOS, SF-36, pain scales) and high-resolution MRI at multiple timepoints over 5 years. Both rehabilitation approaches produced significant improvements in clinical and MRI outcomes over the 5-year period, with the accelerated protocol showing comparable safety and effectiveness to the traditional approach, and even demonstrating less frequent pain at 5 years. Patient age and defect size were associated with poorer MRI outcomes, while over 94% of patients reported satisfaction with pain relief and functional improvement regardless of rehabilitation protocol.

INTRINSIC STRESSES ON BONE AND CARTILAGE IN THE NORMAL AND ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT-RECONSTRUCTED KNEE BEFORE AND AFTER A HALF MARATHON: A MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING ANALYSIS.

DOI: 10.1097/JSM.0b013e31825d0d4a · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:37:52
This study aimed to compare changes in knee structures between ACL-reconstructed and healthy control knees following half-marathon running. The researchers used MRI scans taken within 48 hours before and after competition in 8 runners, analyzing cartilage, ligament, bone, and meniscus pathology in both the reconstructed and contralateral control knees. The main findings showed that ACL-reconstructed knees had more baseline pathology (including meniscal tears, cartilage lesions, and bone edema) and demonstrated a strong trend toward increased bone marrow edema after the race compared to control knees. Importantly, existing knee pathology did not worsen in either knee following the half-marathon distance running.

BIOMARKERS OF ANTIOXIDANT STATUS, INFLAMMATION, AND CARTILAGE METABOLISM ARE AFFECTED BY ACUTE INTENSE EXERCISE BUT NOT SUPEROXIDE DISMUTASE SUPPLEMENTATION IN HORSES.

DOI: 10.1155/2012/920932 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:37:46
This study investigated how acute intense exercise and superoxide dismutase (SOD) supplementation affect joint health and antioxidant status in horses. Researchers used a randomized crossover trial with 12 Standardbred mares that received either SOD supplements or placebo for 6 weeks, followed by a repeated sprint exercise test, with blood and synovial fluid samples collected before, during, and after exercise. The intense exercise triggered normal adaptive responses including increased antioxidant defenses in blood, elevated inflammatory markers (PGE₂), and increased cartilage metabolism markers (chondroitin sulfate) in joint fluid, with hock joints showing greater responses than carpal joints. However, SOD supplementation provided no measurable benefits compared to placebo, suggesting that the horses' natural antioxidant systems adequately responded to the exercise-induced oxidative stress.

COMPARISON OF MRI T2 RELAXATION CHANGES OF KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE BEFORE AND AFTER RUNNING BETWEEN YOUNG AND OLD AMATEUR ATHLETES.

DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2012.13.5.594 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:37:40
This study compared how knee cartilage responds to running exercise in younger versus older amateur athletes using MRI T2 relaxation mapping. The researchers used 3.0-T MRI to measure T2 values in weight-bearing cartilage of 10 younger and 10 older athletes before running, immediately after 30 minutes of running, and 2 hours post-exercise. Overall cartilage T2 changes after running were similar between age groups, suggesting comparable global cartilage responses to exercise regardless of age. However, older athletes showed higher T2 values specifically in the superficial cartilage layers compared to younger athletes, indicating that age-related cartilage changes primarily occur in these surface regions where collagen matrix degeneration typically begins.

DIURNAL VARIATIONS IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE THICKNESS AND STRAIN IN THE HUMAN KNEE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2012.09.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:37:35
This study investigated how knee cartilage thickness changes throughout the day due to normal daily activities. The researchers used 3T MRI to scan 10 healthy adults (average age 29) at 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, then created 3D models to measure cartilage thickness and calculate strain patterns across different joint regions. The results showed that cartilage generally becomes thinner from morning to afternoon, with the medial tibial plateau experiencing the greatest compressive strain (-5.1%), followed by the lateral plateau (-3.1%) and femoral cartilage (-1.9%), while the patellofemoral groove showed minimal changes. These findings establish normal baseline values for daily cartilage deformation patterns, which could be useful for future studies examining how altered joint mechanics affect cartilage health and disease progression.

ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPY CHARACTERIZATION OF COLLAGEN 'NANOSTRAWS' IN HUMAN COSTAL CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2012.10.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:37:29
This study aimed to characterize collagen "nanostraws" in human costal cartilage using atomic force microscopy, with the hypothesis that these structures facilitate fluid transport in this thick, blood vessel-free tissue. The researchers used immunohistological staining and atomic force microscopy to measure the diameter and elastic modulus (Young's modulus) of these nanoscale collagen structures in costal cartilage samples. The study found significant differences in both the elasticity and diameter of the nanostraws depending on the tissue treatment and fixation methods used. These findings are important because variations in nanostraw properties directly impact calculations for nano-scale fluid transport, which has implications for understanding nutrition and waste removal in this understudied cartilage type that can be affected in chest wall deformities.

ULTRASONOGRAPHIC MEASUREMENT OF THE DISTAL FEMORAL CARTILAGE THICKNESS IN PATIENTS WITH UNILATERAL TRANSTIBIAL AMPUTATION.

DOI: 10.1177/0309364612464233 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:37:23
This study investigated whether unilateral transtibial amputation affects knee cartilage thickness by comparing the amputated and non-amputated legs in 24 patients. The researchers used ultrasound to measure distal femoral cartilage thickness at three locations (medial condyle, lateral condyle, and intercondylar area) and examined relationships with prosthesis use patterns and functional measures like walking speed and distance. The amputated legs showed significantly thinner cartilage at the lateral condyle and intercondylar area compared to the intact legs, with greater cartilage loss correlating with faster walking speeds, longer daily prosthesis use, and better functional performance. These findings suggest that abnormal gait patterns following amputation may increase mechanical loading on the remaining knee joint, potentially accelerating cartilage degeneration despite improved functional mobility.

CARTILAGE STATUS IN RELATION TO RETURN TO SPORTS AFTER ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546512473568 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:37:17
This study investigated cartilage quality in ACL-reconstructed knees at 6 months post-surgery and its relationship to return-to-sport timing. The researchers used advanced 3T MRI techniques to compare 15 ACL reconstruction patients with 15 matched controls, measuring cartilage structure, biochemical composition (T2/T2* mapping), and functional response to a 30-minute running test.

ACL-reconstructed knees showed significantly inferior cartilage quality compared to controls, with altered biochemical properties and impaired recovery after exercise, particularly in the medial femur and tibial compartments. Patients who returned to sports before 5 months, especially those who had surgery within 10 weeks of injury, demonstrated the most concerning cartilage changes including increased thickness, greater deformation, and delayed recovery after running, suggesting the cartilage may not be adequately prepared for high-impact activities.

SHAPE FIDELITY OF NATIVE AND ENGINEERED HUMAN NASAL SEPTAL CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1177/0194599813478921 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:37:10
This study evaluated whether laboratory-grown (engineered) nasal septal cartilage can maintain its shape as well as natural septal cartilage when subjected to bending forces. Researchers created cartilage constructs from human septal cells, cultured them for 10 weeks, then applied sustained bending loads for 6 days before measuring shape retention, cell survival, and biochemical properties compared to native tissue controls. The engineered cartilage showed similar shape retention to native tissue after relaxation periods (around 22% vs 14% after 24 hours), with no adverse effects on cell viability or tissue composition from the mechanical loading. These findings suggest that engineered septal cartilage has adequate shape fidelity and could potentially serve as graft material for nasal reconstruction procedures.

EFFECTS OF A PROGRESSIVE AQUATIC RESISTANCE EXERCISE PROGRAM ON THE BIOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND MORPHOLOGY OF CARTILAGE IN WOMEN WITH MILD KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: PROTOCOL FOR A RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIAL.

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2474-14-82 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:37:05
This study protocol describes a randomized controlled trial investigating whether aquatic resistance exercise can improve cartilage health in postmenopausal women with mild knee osteoarthritis. The researchers will recruit 80 volunteers and randomly assign them to either a 4-month progressive aquatic resistance exercise program (1 hour, 3 times weekly) or a control group maintaining usual care. The primary outcomes will measure cartilage biochemical composition and thickness using advanced MRI techniques (T2 relaxation time and delayed gadolinium-enhanced imaging), with secondary measures including pain, function, bone health, and quality of life assessed at baseline, 4 months, and 1-year follow-up. This represents the first study to examine how aquatic exercise directly affects human cartilage structure and composition, potentially providing evidence to optimize exercise prescriptions for people with early-stage knee osteoarthritis.

THE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH-THROUGHPUT MAGNETO-MECHANOSTIMULATION DEVICE FOR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.TEC.2013.0225 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:36:59
This study aimed to develop a novel bioreactor that can simultaneously apply both magnetic and mechanical stimuli to improve cartilage tissue engineering, addressing the limitation of current devices that only provide mechanical stimulation. The researchers designed a high-throughput device with 18 individual stations that uses contactless magnetic actuation and integrated sensors to apply controlled magnetic fields and mechanical loading while measuring real-time parameters like force, thickness, and material properties. Validation testing demonstrated high precision, with thickness measurements within 14 μm of gold standard measurements and force accuracy within 0.04 N over extended periods, while material property measurements matched those from standard testing machines. The new magneto-mechanostimulation bioreactor offers a cost-effective approach to better replicate the complex biophysical environment needed for successful cartilage tissue engineering.

REPLICATION OF CHRONIC ABNORMAL CARTILAGE LOADING BY MEDIAL MENISCUS DESTABILIZATION FOR MODELING OSTEOARTHRITIS IN THE RABBIT KNEE IN VIVO.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.22393 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:36:53
This study aimed to evaluate medial meniscus destabilization (MMD) as a surgical technique for creating osteoarthritis models in rabbit knees by inducing chronic abnormal cartilage loading. Researchers compared the biomechanical effects of MMD versus total medial meniscectomy (TMM) using ex vivo compression and stability tests in 8 cadaver knees, then assessed cartilage damage in living rabbits over 8 weeks (5 animals per group). Both MMD and TMM significantly increased peak contact stress in the medial compartment by more than 1.5-fold without affecting overall joint stability, and both techniques produced moderate cartilage degeneration after 8 weeks. The findings demonstrate that MMD is as effective as TMM for modeling osteoarthritis while being technically simpler to perform and avoiding joint instability complications.

MECHANICAL BEHAVIOR OF BOVINE NASAL CARTILAGE UNDER STATIC AND DYNAMIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2013.07.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:36:46
This study aimed to characterize the mechanical properties of bovine nasal septum (BNS) cartilage under static and dynamic loading conditions using a novel rolling/plowing explant test system (RPETS) designed to better replicate complex in vivo joint loading patterns. The researchers determined biphasic material properties through mechanical testing and compared experimental results with analytical models and finite element computations during dynamic plowing tests. The key findings showed that BNS cartilage behaves as a biphasic material with specific mechanical parameters (Young's modulus of 2.03 MPa, aggregate modulus of 2.35 MPa, Poisson's ratio of 0.24, and hydraulic permeability of 3.0 × 10⁻¹⁵ m⁴/Ns), and exhibits viscoelastic responses to dynamic forces with tissue reactions proportional to applied loading forces. The experimental results aligned well with theoretical predictions, validating BNS cartilage as a suitable tissue model for cartilage biomechanics research.

COMPARISON OF PHOTOPOLYMERIZABLE THIOL-ENE PEG AND ACRYLATE-BASED PEG HYDROGELS FOR CARTILAGE DEVELOPMENT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2013.09.020 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:36:41
This study compared two different hydrogel systems for cartilage tissue engineering to determine how polymerization chemistry affects cartilage development. Researchers encapsulated bovine chondrocytes in either acrylate-based hydrogels (formed by chain-growth polymerization) or thiol-norbornene hydrogels (formed by step-growth polymerization) and cultured them with or without mechanical loading. The acrylate system caused immediate cellular stress (high ROS levels) and ultimately produced lower-quality hypertrophic cartilage with undesirable collagen types, while the thiol-norbornene system generated healthier hyaline-like cartilage resembling native tissue, particularly under mechanical loading. These findings demonstrate that the choice of hydrogel chemistry significantly impacts the quality of engineered cartilage tissue.

SERUM CTXII CORRELATES WITH ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEGENERATION AFTER ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT TRANSECTION OR ARTHROTOMY FOLLOWED BY STANDARDIZED EXERCISE.

DOI: 10.1177/1941738112451425 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:36:35
This study investigated whether serum biomarkers could detect early cartilage damage following knee injury in exercised rats. Researchers performed either ACL transection or sham surgery on 24 rats, followed by standardized treadmill exercise for 6-12 weeks, then measured cartilage degeneration through multiple grading systems and analyzed serum levels of two biomarkers (CTXII and CS846). At 6 weeks, ACL-transected animals showed significantly worse cartilage damage on all assessment scales, and serum CTXII levels strongly correlated with cartilage degeneration scores (correlation coefficients 0.73-0.81). The findings suggest CTXII could serve as an early biomarker for cartilage degeneration after joint injury, though the study also revealed that exercise after even minor surgical trauma may negatively impact cartilage health.

CHANGES IN THE SERUM CARTILAGE BIOMARKER LEVELS OF HEALTHY ADULTS IN RESPONSE TO AN UPHILL WALK.

DOI: 10.11622/smedj.2013245 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:36:28
This study investigated how uphill walking affects blood markers of cartilage health in healthy adults to help determine optimal joint loading during physical activity. Researchers compared 58 participants who walked 14 km uphill (5.97° incline) with 24 controls who walked the same distance on flat ground, measuring three cartilage biomarkers (COMP, WF6, and HA) in blood samples before exercise, immediately after, and 24 hours later. The uphill group showed significantly higher COMP levels and lower HA levels immediately after exercise compared to the flat-walking group, while WF6 levels remained unchanged between groups. The authors concluded that elevated COMP levels indicate increased cartilage stress from uphill walking, but these changes appear to be reversible physiological responses rather than harmful structural damage to the cartilage.

QUADRICEPS INTRAMUSCULAR FAT FRACTION RATHER THAN MUSCLE SIZE IS ASSOCIATED WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2013.12.005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:36:21
This study investigated whether muscle fat content or muscle size is more strongly associated with knee osteoarthritis by comparing thigh muscle characteristics between 30 people with radiographic knee osteoarthritis and 66 controls using advanced MRI techniques. The researchers used chemical shift-based water/fat MRI to measure intramuscular fat fractions and muscle area, alongside assessments of muscle strength, function, and knee joint damage.

The key finding was that people with knee osteoarthritis had significantly higher quadriceps intramuscular fat content compared to controls, while quadriceps muscle size showed no difference between groups. Importantly, quadriceps fat fraction—but not muscle area—was associated with self-reported disability, cartilage damage, meniscus lesions, and disease severity, suggesting that muscle quality deteriorates more than muscle quantity in knee osteoarthritis.

EXTENSIONAL FLOW OF HYALURONIC ACID SOLUTIONS IN AN OPTIMIZED MICROFLUIDIC CROSS-SLOT DEVICE.

DOI: 10.1063/1.4816708 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:36:15
This study aimed to investigate the flow behavior and rheological properties of hyaluronic acid (HA) solutions that mimic synovial fluid in knee joints under conditions similar to cartilage compression during movement. The researchers used a specialized microfluidic device called an optimized shape cross-slot extensional rheometer (OSCER) that creates flow patterns resembling those between compressing cartilage layers, combined with birefringence microscopy and particle image velocimetry to measure fluid behavior. The key finding was that HA solutions exhibit strong extensional-thickening behavior with high Trouton ratios (~50), meaning the fluid becomes much more viscous when stretched rather than when flowing in simple shear. This extensional-thickening property provides a clear mechanism for how synovial fluid dampens loads in joints, and the OSCER device shows promise for screening synovial fluid samples to better understand arthritis progression and develop improved treatments.

MATRIX-INDUCED AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION (MACI) FOR CHONDRAL DEFECTS IN THE PATELLOFEMORAL JOINT.

DOI: 10.1007/s00167-014-3046-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:36:08
This study evaluated the long-term effectiveness of matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) for treating cartilage defects in the patellofemoral joint (kneecap area) by examining MRI images and clinical outcomes at 5 years post-surgery in 23 patients with an average age of 42. The researchers used the MOCART scoring system to assess graft quality on MRI scans and measured clinical improvement through standardized knee function tests and quality of life questionnaires. The results showed that MACI grafts remained structurally intact at 5 years (82% of patients had graft height >50% of normal cartilage), with improved MOCART scores from 3 months to 5 years, and patients experienced significant clinical improvements in knee function and quality of life, with 91% willing to undergo the procedure again. The study demonstrates that MACI provides durable cartilage repair in the patellofemoral joint with sustained clinical benefits, though the correlation between MRI appearance and clinical outcomes was low.

FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES AFTER SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE LESIONS IN THE KNEE: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW TO GUIDE POSTOPERATIVE REHABILITATION.

DOI: 10.2519/jospt.2014.4844 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:36:01
This systematic review examined muscle performance, knee biomechanics, and functional outcomes following knee cartilage repair surgeries to inform rehabilitation approaches. The authors searched multiple databases through 2013 and analyzed 16 studies that assessed outcomes after procedures like microfracture and autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI). The key findings revealed persistent deficits lasting 5-7 years post-surgery, including quadriceps strength losses greater than 20% in about one-quarter to one-third of patients at 1-2 years, altered knee movement patterns during walking, and reduced performance on high-level functional tests. The study concludes that current rehabilitation approaches may be inadequate given these long-lasting impairments, highlighting the need for improved post-surgical treatment strategies.

MECHANICAL ACTIVATION OF MAMMALIAN TARGET OF RAPAMYCIN PATHWAY IS REQUIRED FOR CARTILAGE DEVELOPMENT.

DOI: 10.1096/fj.14-252783 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:35:55
This study investigated how mechanical forces regulate cartilage development through the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. The researchers used chicken embryos with eliminated muscle contraction to study mechanical stress effects in vivo, and applied cyclic loading (1 Hz, 5% deformation) to embryonic chondrocytes in 3D collagen scaffolds to examine mechanotransduction mechanisms. They found that mechanical loading activates mTOR signaling, which is essential for chondrocyte proliferation, cartilage growth, and expression of key developmental genes like Indian hedgehog (IHH). The study also identified that SHP2 protein acts as a negative regulator of this mechanical activation, suggesting mTOR serves as a critical mechanotransduction component that translates physical forces into cellular responses during cartilage development.

MECHANICAL STIMULATION ENHANCES INTEGRATION IN AN IN VITRO MODEL OF CARTILAGE REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1007/s00167-014-3250-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:35:50
This study investigated whether mechanical stimulation improves the integration of tissue-engineered cartilage implants with surrounding healthy cartilage tissue. The researchers used bovine cartilage in an in vitro model, comparing constructs cultured under static conditions versus mechanical stimulation (90 rpm in spinner bioreactors) for 2-4 weeks, then analyzed integration using histological, biochemical, biomechanical, and gene expression methods. The results showed that mechanical stimulation significantly enhanced both the extent and strength of integration between implant and host tissue, with increased collagen content in the integration zone and altered gene expression patterns including elevated levels of key cartilage matrix components. These findings suggest that early mechanical loading through continuous passive motion or structured rehabilitation programs could improve the success of cartilage repair therapies in clinical applications.

MECHANICAL FORCES INDUCE CHANGES IN VEGF AND VEGFR-1/SFLT-1 EXPRESSION IN HUMAN CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms150915456 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:35:44
This study investigated how mechanical forces affect the expression of angiogenic factors in cartilage cells, specifically examining whether mechanical loading contributes to osteoarthritis progression through blood vessel formation. The researchers applied cyclic stretching forces (1-16% strain) to human chondrocytes for 12 hours and measured changes in VEGF (a pro-angiogenic factor) and its regulatory receptor using promoter reporter assays and ELISA. They found that mechanical stretching increased VEGF expression in a dose- and frequency-dependent manner by 75% above control levels, while simultaneously suppressing the production of sVEGFR-1, a natural inhibitor that normally prevents excessive blood vessel formation. These findings suggest that abnormal mechanical loading in joints creates a molecular environment that promotes harmful blood vessel growth in cartilage by both increasing pro-angiogenic signals and reducing natural protective mechanisms.

ASSOCIATION OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY MEASURED BY ACCELEROMETER, KNEE JOINT ABNORMALITIES, AND CARTILAGE T2 MEASUREMENTS OBTAINED FROM 3T MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING: DATA FROM THE OSTEOARTHRITIS INITIATIVE.

DOI: 10.1002/acr.22586 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:35:37
This study examined whether physical activity levels are associated with early knee joint changes in people without established osteoarthritis. Researchers analyzed 274 participants from the Osteoarthritis Initiative who had minimal or no radiographic knee osteoarthritis and little to no knee pain, measuring their physical activity over 7 days using accelerometers and assessing knee structure using 3T MRI scans with advanced imaging techniques (WORMS scoring and T2 mapping). The study found that participants with higher levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity had more severe meniscal damage and bone marrow edema lesions, though no significant associations were found with cartilage damage or cartilage T2 values. These findings suggest that higher physical activity levels may be linked to certain types of early knee joint changes even in people without symptomatic osteoarthritis, particularly affecting the meniscus and bone marrow rather than cartilage.

CHILDHOOD PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE MEASURES AND ADULTHOOD KNEE CARTILAGE VOLUME AND BONE AREA: A 25-YEAR COHORT STUDY.

DOI: 10.1002/acr.22588 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:35:31
This 25-year longitudinal study investigated whether childhood physical fitness measures predict adult knee cartilage and bone health. Researchers followed 330 participants from the 1985 Australian Schools Health and Fitness Survey, measuring childhood fitness (cardiovascular capacity, leg strength, sit-ups, and running performance) and adult knee structure using MRI at ages 31-41 years. The study found that all childhood fitness measures were positively associated with adult tibial bone area, while cardiovascular fitness (PWC170) and sit-ups specifically predicted greater medial tibial cartilage volume 25 years later. These findings suggest that childhood physical performance may have lasting protective effects on adult knee joint health, with the cartilage benefits appearing partially independent of bone size.

PROSPECTIVE CLINICAL AND RADIOLOGIC EVALUATION OF PATELLOFEMORAL MATRIX-INDUCED AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546515574063 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:35:25
This prospective study evaluated the effectiveness of matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) specifically for treating cartilage defects in the patellofemoral joint (kneecap area). The researchers followed 47 patients for 24 months, using clinical assessments (pain scores, function tests, knee strength and range of motion) and MRI scans to evaluate graft tissue growth at 3, 12, and 24 months after surgery. All patient groups showed significant clinical improvements regardless of whether the defect was on the patella or trochlea, or whether additional realignment surgery was needed. At 24 months, 85% of patients were satisfied with their results, and MRI showed complete or near-complete cartilage regrowth in nearly half the patients, with only 4.3% experiencing graft failure.

SERUM CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN LEVELS IN COLLEGIATE SOCCER ATHLETES OVER THE DURATION OF AN ATHLETIC SEASON: A PILOT STUDY.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603514557944 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:35:19
This pilot study aimed to track serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (sCOMP) levels in collegiate soccer players throughout a competitive season to understand how exercise intensity affects cartilage metabolism. The researchers collected weekly blood samples from 6 female soccer athletes over 11 weeks (pre-season, 8-week season, and 2 weeks post-season) while recording their training minutes, then measured sCOMP using standard laboratory assays. Results showed significant changes in sCOMP levels over time, with higher levels generally corresponding to periods of increased soccer activity, though no statistically significant differences were found between baseline and season/post-season measurements. The findings suggest that intense physical activity may increase cartilage turnover (reflected by elevated sCOMP), but levels returned near baseline after the season, indicating the clinical significance of these changes remains unclear.

CHONDROGENIC PRIMING AT REDUCED CELL DENSITY ENHANCES CARTILAGE ADHESION OF EQUINE ALLOGENEIC MSCS - A LOADING SENSITIVE PHENOMENON IN AN ORGAN CULTURE STUDY WITH 180 EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1159/000430384 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:35:12
This study investigated how to optimize mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) adhesion and integration into damaged cartilage by testing different cell preparation methods and conditions. The researchers used 180 cartilage samples from six horses, creating artificial lesions and treating them with either untreated MSCs, chondrogenically-primed MSCs, or chondrogenically-primed MSCs with electromagnetic field stimulation, testing two different cell densities under loaded and unloaded conditions over 14 days.

The key findings showed that chondrogenic priming increased beneficial cartilage protein expression (COMP and collagen II), and primed cells distributed more evenly compared to untreated MSCs which formed clumps. Critically, mechanical loading dramatically reduced MSC adhesion (from 93% to 2% surface adherence), while using lower cell densities and avoiding mechanical loading significantly improved both surface adhesion and lesion filling.

These results suggest that for cartilage repair therapies, MSCs should be chondrogenically primed before application, used at moderate densities, and mechanical loading should potentially be minimized during the initial healing period to optimize cell integration.

THE FRICTION COEFFICIENT OF SHOULDER JOINTS REMAINS REMARKABLY LOW OVER 24 H OF LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2015.09.029 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:35:04
This study aimed to measure friction coefficients in human shoulder joints during prolonged loading periods that simulate daily activities. Researchers tested whole human glenohumeral joints and human-bovine joint combinations using a pendulum device over 24 hours of continuous reciprocal loading at different speeds (moderate: 0.2 mm/s and low: 0.02 mm/s) under 200 N force. The friction coefficients remained remarkably low throughout testing, starting around 0.0008-0.0024 in the first 30 minutes and increasing only modestly to 0.0012-0.0057 by the final hours, with no visible cartilage damage observed. These findings demonstrate that natural shoulder joints maintain exceptional lubrication properties even during extended loading, with the lowest friction values occurring in incongruent joint pairings likely due to rolling rather than sliding motion.

INJURIOUS LOADING OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE COMPROMISES CHONDROCYTE RESPIRATORY FUNCTION.

DOI: 10.1002/art.39460 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:34:57
This study investigated whether repeated mechanical overloading of healthy cartilage causes mitochondrial dysfunction similar to that seen in osteoarthritis development. The researchers subjected bovine cartilage samples to cyclic compression at two different stress levels (0.25 MPa and 1.0 MPa) for either 1 or 7 days, then measured cell viability, energy metabolism, and mitochondrial function. While short-term loading showed minimal effects, 7 days of higher stress loading (1.0 MPa) significantly impaired cellular respiration, reduced ATP levels, and caused mitochondrial dysfunction through increased oxidative stress—effects that were prevented by antioxidant treatment. These findings suggest that repeated mechanical overloading triggers oxidative damage to cellular energy systems, which may contribute to cartilage breakdown in osteoarthritis by disrupting the cells' ability to respond properly to mechanical signals.

ABNORMAL MECHANICAL LOADING INDUCES CARTILAGE DEGENERATION BY ACCELERATING MENISCUS HYPERTROPHY AND MINERALIZATION AFTER ACL INJURIES IN VIVO.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546515621285 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:34:51
This study investigated whether meniscus changes contribute to cartilage degeneration following ACL injuries. The researchers used a guinea pig model with ACL transection and bovine meniscus tissue subjected to abnormal mechanical loading in the laboratory, measuring markers of tissue damage, hypertrophy, and mineralization. The key findings showed that abnormal loading after ACL injury caused significant meniscus enlargement and calcification, which strongly correlated with cartilage damage (correlation coefficients >0.9). The results suggest that targeting meniscus hypertrophy and calcification could be a potential therapeutic approach to reduce the risk of post-traumatic osteoarthritis following ACL injuries.

REPETITIVE STRESSES GENERATE OSTEOCHONDRAL LESIONS IN SKELETALLY IMMATURE RABBITS.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546516654479 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:34:45
This study investigated whether repetitive mechanical stress can cause juvenile osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) by subjecting six young rabbits to controlled repetitive loading forces (160% body weight) on one hindlimb for 5 weeks, using the opposite limb as a control. The researchers used radiographs, micro-CT scanning, and detailed tissue analysis to examine the knee joints after the loading period. All loaded limbs developed osteochondral lesions on the femoral condyles with bone changes including osteopenia and altered subchondral bone thickness, while cartilage showed thickening, increased chondrocyte activity, and surface cell loss - features that closely resembled human OCD. The findings support the hypothesis that repetitive stress contributes to juvenile OCD development and provide a useful animal model for studying this condition's underlying mechanisms.

A PROSPECTIVE CLINICAL AND RADIOLOGICAL EVALUATION AT 5 YEARS AFTER ARTHROSCOPIC MATRIX-INDUCED AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546516663493 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:34:39
This study evaluated the 5-year outcomes of arthroscopic matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) for treating knee cartilage defects. The researchers prospectively followed 31 patients who underwent arthroscopic MACI, assessing them with multiple clinical outcome measures (including KOOS, Lysholm, and Tegner scores) and high-resolution MRI at regular intervals from 3 months to 5 years post-surgery. The results showed significant improvements in all clinical measures, with over 90% of patients satisfied with pain relief and daily activities, and 90% demonstrating good to excellent cartilage tissue repair on MRI imaging. Only 2 graft failures occurred over the 5-year period, suggesting that arthroscopic MACI provides durable clinical and structural benefits for patients with symptomatic knee cartilage lesions.

CELL VIABILITY IN ARTHROSCOPIC VERSUS OPEN AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546516664338 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:34:33
This study compared cell survival between arthroscopic and open surgical approaches for autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), a two-stage cartilage repair procedure. The researchers performed 16 ACI surgeries on cadaveric knees (8 arthroscopic, 8 open mini-arthrotomy) and used confocal microscopy to count live and dead cells on the implants after surgery. The open approach resulted in significantly better outcomes, with 16 times more viable cells remaining on the implant compared to arthroscopic surgery (37% vs 4% viability) and was much faster to perform (6 vs 32 minutes). The findings suggest that despite being less invasive, arthroscopic ACI may compromise treatment effectiveness due to excessive cell death during the more complex surgical manipulation required.

TWO-YEAR OUTCOMES OF A RANDOMIZED TRIAL INVESTIGATING A 6-WEEK RETURN TO FULL WEIGHTBEARING AFTER MATRIX-INDUCED AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546516673837 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:34:28
This randomized controlled trial investigated whether patients could safely return to full weightbearing earlier after matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) surgery for knee cartilage defects. The study compared 37 knees randomly assigned to either standard 8-week or accelerated 6-week return to full weightbearing, with patients evaluated over 24 months using clinical outcome measures, strength testing, and MRI assessment of graft quality.

Both groups showed significant improvements in pain, function, strength, and graft quality over time, with no significant differences between the two weightbearing protocols. Notably, the accelerated 6-week group demonstrated some superior outcomes, including 100% good-to-excellent graft fill compared to 83% in the standard group, with both graft failures occurring in the 8-week group.

The findings suggest that an accelerated 6-week return to full weightbearing after MACI surgery is safe and produces comparable or potentially better outcomes than the traditional 8-week approach, without compromising graft integrity.

CYCLIC MECHANICAL LOADING ENHANCES TRANSPORT OF ANTIBODIES INTO ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1115/1.4035265 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:34:21
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects antibody penetration into articular cartilage, which could improve drug delivery for osteoarthritis treatment. The researchers applied cyclic compression to cartilage plugs at varying strain levels (0.25-5%) and frequencies (0.25-2.60 Hz) while exposing them to fluorescently-labeled antibodies, then measured penetration using confocal microscopy and modeled fluid flow with finite element simulations. The results showed that cyclic mechanical loading enhanced antibody transport by 2-3 fold, with optimal enhancement occurring at 5% strain amplitude and 1 Hz frequency. The areas of greatest transport enhancement correlated with regions of highest fluid velocity predicted by the computer models, suggesting that mechanical pumping drives the improved antibody penetration.

COMBINING TARGETED METABOLOMIC DATA WITH A MODEL OF GLUCOSE METABOLISM: TOWARD PROGRESS IN CHONDROCYTE MECHANOTRANSDUCTION.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0168326 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:34:16
This study aimed to understand how mechanical loading affects energy metabolism in chondrocytes (cartilage cells) by combining experimental metabolomic data with computational modeling. The researchers applied dynamic compression to human chondrocytes for 30 minutes and used a mathematical model based on metabolic stoichiometry to calculate reaction rates across central energy pathways. The main findings showed that mechanical compression synchronized chondrocyte energy metabolism and promoted changes consistent with increased protein synthesis, which is important for cartilage matrix production. This integrated approach demonstrates a promising method for rapidly analyzing how cells respond metabolically to mechanical forces, providing insights into the mechanotransduction processes that may be disrupted in osteoarthritis.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IS RELATED WITH CARTILAGE QUALITY IN WOMEN WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000001238 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:34:09
This study investigated whether physical activity levels over 12 months were associated with cartilage quality changes in postmenopausal women with mild knee osteoarthritis. The researchers followed 76 women (aged 60-68) who tracked their leisure-time physical activity in diaries, then divided them into low, medium, and high activity groups based on metabolic equivalent hours per month. Advanced MRI techniques (T2 mapping and dGEMRIC) were used to assess cartilage collagen network properties and glycosaminoglycan content at the study's end. Higher physical activity levels were significantly linked to increased glycosaminoglycan content specifically in the posterior regions of both lateral and medial femoral cartilage, suggesting that more active women with mild knee OA experienced beneficial cartilage composition changes in these weight-bearing areas.

T2* MAPPING FOR HIP JOINT CARTILAGE ASSESSMENT: PRE-MRI EXERCISE AND TIME OF IMAGING DO NOT BIAS THE T2* MEASUREMENT IN ASYMPTOMATIC VOLUNTEERS.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603516665446 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:34:04
This study investigated whether the timing of MRI scans and pre-imaging exercise affect T2* mapping measurements of hip joint cartilage. Nine healthy volunteers underwent 3T MRI scans at different times of day (morning vs. afternoon) and at multiple time points (0-60 minutes) after performing 50 knee-bends, using specialized sequences to assess cartilage structure and measure T2* values. The results showed no significant differences in T2* measurements between morning and afternoon scans, across different time points, or after physical exercise. These findings suggest that T2* mapping of hip cartilage is a robust imaging technique that is not influenced by diurnal variations or pre-scan physical activity, supporting its reliability for clinical cartilage assessment.

INTRA-ARTICULAR INJECTION IN THE KNEE OF ADIPOSE DERIVED STROMAL CELLS (STROMAL VASCULAR FRACTION) AND PLATELET RICH PLASMA FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1186/s12967-017-1242-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:33:58
This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of injecting a combination of adipose-derived stromal cells (stromal vascular fraction, SVF) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into knee joints of patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis. Ten patients underwent liposuction to harvest fat tissue, from which SVF was extracted and combined with PRP from their blood for knee injection, with outcomes measured using pain/function scores (WOMAC), walking tests, and imaging over 2 years. The treatment showed significant improvements in pain and function scores that were sustained for 2 years, with patients walking further distances and six out of ten showing increased cartilage thickness on MRI at 1 year. The procedure demonstrated a strong safety profile with no serious adverse events and high patient satisfaction, though the small sample size limits the strength of conclusions.

IN VIVO TIBIAL CARTILAGE STRAINS IN REGIONS OF CARTILAGE-TO-CARTILAGE CONTACT AND CARTILAGE-TO-MENISCUS CONTACT IN RESPONSE TO WALKING.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546517712506 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:33:52
This study investigated how meniscal coverage affects cartilage loading patterns in healthy knees during walking. The researchers used MRI imaging before and after 20 minutes of treadmill walking in 8 healthy volunteers to measure cartilage thickness changes (strain) in four tibial regions: covered and uncovered areas in both medial and lateral compartments. The results showed that all cartilage regions experienced significant thickness decreases after walking, but meniscus-covered cartilage in the medial compartment experienced significantly lower strains compared to uncovered areas, while no such difference was found in the lateral compartment. These findings provide important baseline data on normal meniscal load-sharing function, demonstrating that the meniscus does reduce cartilage loading, particularly in the medial compartment.

MECHANICALLY STIMULATED BIOMARKERS SIGNAL CARTILAGE CHANGES OVER 5 YEARS CONSISTENT WITH DISEASE PROGRESSION IN MEDIAL KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS PATIENTS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.23720 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:33:46
This study investigated whether changes in blood biomarkers after mechanical stress could predict cartilage changes in knee osteoarthritis patients over a 5-year period. Researchers measured two serum biomarkers - one indicating cartilage breakdown (C1,2C) and another indicating cartilage synthesis (CS846) - before and after a 30-minute walk in 16 patients with medial knee osteoarthritis, then tracked cartilage thickness changes using MRI scans over 5 years. The results showed that patients with increased breakdown marker levels after walking experienced more cartilage thinning in the diseased medial compartment, while increased synthesis marker levels correlated with cartilage thickening in the healthier lateral compartment. These findings suggest that measuring biomarker responses to mechanical stress (like walking) may provide a more accurate way to assess osteoarthritis disease progression than static biomarker measurements alone.

EFFECTS OF LOADING ON CHONDROCYTE HYPOXIA, HIF-1Α AND VEGF IN THE MANDIBULAR CONDYLAR CARTILAGE OF YOUNG RATS.

DOI: 10.1111/ocr.12212 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:33:40
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects oxygen levels and growth factor expression in jaw joint cartilage of young rats. Researchers compared rats fed soft food with trimmed teeth (reduced loading) to those fed hard food with forced jaw opening (increased loading), measuring hypoxia markers and growth factors (HIF-1α and VEGF) at various time points up to 96 hours. The results showed that hypoxia occurred primarily in the upper cartilage layers of weight-bearing areas, with the strongest hypoxia at 12 and 96 hours, while HIF-1α and VEGF expression was highest in the surface cartilage layers and increased significantly in the high-loading group at 48 and 96 hours. The findings suggest that mechanical loading directly causes localized oxygen deficiency in cartilage, which triggers the production of factors that promote new blood vessel formation—an important process for cartilage development and adaptation.

THE EFFECTS OF WELL-ROUNDED EXERCISE PROGRAM ON SYSTEMIC BIOMARKERS RELATED TO CARTILAGE METABOLISM.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603518767998 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:33:33
This study investigated how a comprehensive exercise program affects cartilage metabolism in middle-aged women using blood and urine biomarkers. Forty-two women (average age 59) participated in a 12-week supervised exercise program combining aerobic, strengthening, and flexibility training, with researchers measuring physical performance tests and four cartilage-related biomarkers before, during, and up to 24 weeks after the program. The results showed that women without radiological knee osteoarthritis experienced beneficial changes in cartilage metabolism (increased cartilage formation and decreased breakdown markers) along with improved physical performance, while those with existing osteoarthritis maintained stable cartilage metabolism without harmful effects. The findings suggest that well-rounded exercise programs can improve both physical function and cartilage health, particularly in people before osteoarthritis becomes visible on X-rays.

THIRTY MINUTES OF RUNNING EXERCISE DECREASES T2 SIGNAL INTENSITY BUT NOT THICKNESS OF THE KNEE JOINT CARTILAGE: A 3.0-T MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING STUDY.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603518770246 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:33:27
This study investigated how 30 minutes of running affects knee cartilage properties using advanced 3.0-T MRI imaging. Researchers measured cartilage thickness and T2 signal intensity (reflecting fluid content) in 22 healthy males before and after running, examining multiple knee joint locations including the patella, femoral condyles, and tibial plateaus. The main findings showed that while cartilage thickness remained largely unchanged, T2 signal intensity decreased significantly at most locations, with the greatest reduction (10.6%) occurring at the medial tibial plateau of the dominant knee. These changes suggest that running causes fluid to move out of the cartilage tissue, with the medial tibial plateau experiencing the greatest loading during this activity.

EFFECT OF JOINT MIMICKING LOADING SYSTEM ON ZONAL ORGANIZATION INTO TISSUE-ENGINEERED CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0202834 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:33:22
This study aimed to investigate how joint-like mechanical loading affects the development of zonal organization in tissue-engineered cartilage, which is crucial for proper joint function. The researchers developed a loading system that mimics knee joint mechanics by applying combined compression and shear stress using a femoral condyle-shaped device on fibrin/hyaluronic acid constructs containing chondrocytes, with stimulation applied for 1 hour daily over 4 weeks. The mechanically stimulated constructs produced significantly more glycosaminoglycans (GAG) and collagen compared to static controls, and notably developed organized horizontal alignment of cells and collagen fibers parallel to the surface - a key feature of natural cartilage zoning that was absent in unstimulated samples. These findings demonstrate that joint-mimicking mechanical loading is essential for both enhancing extracellular matrix production and achieving the functional tissue organization necessary for effective cartilage engineering.

EARLY SIGNS OF BONE AND CARTILAGE CHANGES INDUCED BY TREADMILL EXERCISE IN RATS.

DOI: 10.1002/jbm4.10029 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:33:15
This study investigated whether gradual pretraining could protect knee cartilage from damage during intense treadmill running in rats. Researchers compared three groups over 20 weeks: rats with 8 weeks of gradual training followed by 6 weeks of constant running, rats with 8 weeks of rest followed by 6 weeks of constant running, and sedentary controls, analyzing bone and cartilage changes at multiple time points. Both running groups developed early signs of cartilage degeneration including abnormal cell changes and clustering, with the gradual training group actually showing more cartilage irregularities rather than protection. The study concluded that pretraining did not prevent mild cartilage damage, and both exercise protocols led to early osteoarthritis-like changes in bone and cartilage tissues.

LESSER LOWER EXTREMITY MECHANICAL LOADING ASSOCIATES WITH A GREATER INCREASE IN SERUM CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN FOLLOWING WALKING IN INDIVIDUALS WITH ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2018.09.024 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:33:09
This study investigated whether altered walking mechanics in people with ACL reconstruction are linked to cartilage stress responses during physical activity. Researchers measured ground reaction forces during walking in 30 individuals with ACL reconstruction and analyzed blood levels of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) - a marker of cartilage breakdown - before and after 20 minutes of treadmill walking. The key finding was counterintuitive: participants who placed less force on their reconstructed leg during walking showed greater increases in serum COMP levels after exercise. These results suggest that reduced loading (possibly due to protective movement patterns) may paradoxically lead to increased cartilage stress responses, highlighting the importance of optimizing loading patterns rather than simply avoiding impact in ACL rehabilitation.

ELITE ROWERS DEMONSTRATE CONSISTENT PATTERNS OF HIP CARTILAGE DAMAGE COMPARED WITH MATCHED CONTROLS: A T2* MAPPING STUDY.

DOI: 10.1097/CORR.0000000000000576 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:33:03
This study investigated whether elite rowers show characteristic hip cartilage damage patterns by comparing them to non-rowing controls using advanced MRI imaging. The researchers used T2* mapping MRI to examine hip cartilage in 20 elite rowers (minimum 5 years intensive training) versus 15 age-matched controls, measuring T2 values (which indicate cartilage health) and grading cartilage damage across different hip regions.

The findings revealed extensive cartilage damage in all elite rowers' hips, with 50% of acetabular cartilage zones showing abrasion or full-thickness loss, and significantly lower T2 values compared to controls (indicating poorer cartilage quality), particularly in the anterosuperior hip region. While the study cannot prove that rowing caused the damage, it demonstrates a concerning pattern of early cartilage degeneration in young elite rowers that warrants further longitudinal research to understand the long-term implications for hip joint health.

A RARE CASE OF SYMPTOMATIC CAROTID STENOSIS CAUSED BY MECHANICAL STIMULATION BY THYROID CARTILAGE AND FREQUENT SWIMMING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2018.11.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:32:56
This case report describes the first documented instance of thyroid cartilage causing carotid artery stenosis through mechanical stimulation. The study examined a 51-year-old swimmer who developed acute stroke symptoms during front crawl swimming, using imaging techniques including MRI, angiography, ultrasonography, and CT to identify the underlying cause. The investigators found that the thyroid cartilage was in direct contact with the left common carotid artery at the site of stenosis, and that repetitive neck rotation during swimming caused the artery to move with the cartilage, leading to plaque formation and subsequent thrombosis. The findings suggest that anatomical interactions between the carotid artery and surrounding structures, including cartilage, should be evaluated when selecting treatments to prevent recurrent ischemic events.

MECHANICAL STRESS CONTRIBUTES TO OSTEOARTHRITIS DEVELOPMENT THROUGH THE ACTIVATION OF TRANSFORMING GROWTH FACTOR BETA 1 (TGF-Β1).

DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.711.BJR-2018-0057.R1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:32:50
This study investigated how mechanical stress promotes osteoarthritis development through TGF-β1 signaling between bone and cartilage cells. The researchers used co-cultured osteoclasts and chondrocytes subjected to cyclic mechanical loading, along with an osteoarthritis rat model and tissue samples from five patients with femoral neck fractures.

The key findings showed that mechanical stress significantly increased TGF-β1 production in osteoclasts in a time- and dose-dependent manner, which subsequently caused chondrocyte death and cartilage breakdown. Importantly, blocking TGF-β1 signaling with the inhibitor SB-505124 prevented chondrocyte death in cell cultures and reduced cartilage degradation in the rat osteoarthritis model, suggesting this pathway could be a potential therapeutic target.

A NEW STRESS TEST FOR KNEE JOINT CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-38104-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:32:44
This study aimed to develop a new stress test to directly measure how knee cartilage responds to walking exercise in living humans, addressing the knowledge gap that prevents clinicians from prescribing optimal exercise regimens for cartilage health. The researchers used in vivo measurement techniques to assess tibial cartilage strain in healthy subjects during walking at different speeds (0.9-2.0 m/s) and durations up to 60 minutes. The key findings showed that cartilage compression initially increased with longer walking duration but then plateaued, and that faster walking speeds produced greater cartilage strain, with maximum strains reaching 5.0% after 60 minutes of walking. This work provides the first direct measurements of cartilage behavior during exercise in living humans, establishing important baseline data that could guide future exercise prescriptions for maintaining cartilage health and treating osteoarthritis.

COMPARISON OF MEDIAL FEMORAL CARTILAGE DEFORMATION IN NORMAL ADULTS ACCORDING TO GAIT CONDITIONS.

DOI: 10.12965/jer.1938192.096 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:32:38
This study investigated how different walking conditions affect the deformation of medial femoral cartilage in healthy adults. Researchers divided 76 adults without knee problems into four groups: a resting control group and three walking groups (flat ground, 16° slope, and stepper walking), then measured cartilage thickness using ultrasound before and after 30 minutes of activity. All three walking conditions caused significant cartilage thinning compared to rest, with slope and stepper walking producing greater deformation than flat walking due to increased knee loading. The findings demonstrate that cartilage responds differently to various mechanical loads, with more challenging walking conditions causing greater temporary cartilage compression.

INFLUENCE OF EXERCISE, AGE, BODY WEIGHT, AND GROWTH ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF TARSAL OSTEOARTHRITIS IN YOUNG MANGALARGA MARCHADOR HORSES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2019.06.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:32:33
This study investigated whether early controlled exercise affects tarsal joint development and osteoarthritis risk in young Mangalarga Marchador horses. Researchers followed 40 foals from birth to 36 months, with half receiving additional controlled gallop training 3 days per week starting at approximately 30 days of age, while monitoring body measurements and performing radiographic evaluations at 18 and 36 months. Only two male horses (10%) from the trained group showed radiographic signs of tarsal osteoarthritis at 36 months, while no untrained horses developed these changes. The authors concluded that the specific exercise regimen used did not significantly increase osteoarthritis prevalence in young horses, suggesting that moderate early training may not be detrimental to joint health in this breed.

DOES FOOTWEAR AFFECT ARTICULAR CARTILAGE VOLUME CHANGE AFTER A PROLONGED RUN?

DOI: 10.1111/sms.13576 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:32:26
This study investigated whether different types of footwear influence knee cartilage volume changes during prolonged running. Twelve participants completed 75-minute runs in three different shoe conditions, with high-resolution 3.0 Tesla MRI scans taken before and after each run to measure cartilage volume changes in the patella, femur, and tibia using 3D reconstruction techniques. The results showed significant cartilage volume reductions at all knee joint locations after prolonged running, regardless of footwear type, with no statistically significant differences between shoe conditions. However, there was considerable individual variation in cartilage response across different footwear, suggesting that personalized footwear recommendations may be beneficial for minimizing cartilage volume changes during running.

DOES INJECTION OF HYALURONIC ACID PROTECT AGAINST EARLY CARTILAGE INJURY SEEN AFTER MARATHON RUNNING? A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL UTILIZING HIGH-FIELD MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546519879138 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:32:21
This randomized controlled trial investigated whether intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) injection could protect knee cartilage from damage during marathon running. The researchers randomly assigned 20 runners to receive either HA or saline injection one week before running a marathon, then used high-field MRI to measure cartilage T2 and T1ρ relaxation times (markers of cartilage health) at baseline, 48-72 hours post-marathon, and 3 months later across 8 knee locations. Among the 15 runners who completed the study, there were no statistically significant differences in cartilage relaxation times between the HA and saline groups at any time point or location. The study concluded that pre-marathon HA injection did not provide measurable protection against cartilage changes associated with marathon running.

CONTRAST-ENHANCED XROMM REVEALS IN VIVO SOFT TISSUE INTERACTIONS IN THE HIP OF ALLIGATOR MISSISSIPPIENSIS.

DOI: 10.1111/joa.13101 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:32:15
This study aimed to understand how soft tissues interact within the hip joint of alligators during movement, using advanced imaging to inform broader questions about joint function and evolution in archosaurs (the group including crocodilians and birds). The researchers used contrast-enhanced CT scanning to create 3D models of alligator hip anatomy, then employed X-ray reconstruction of moving morphology (XROMM) to visualize how these soft tissues behaved during walking. Key findings revealed that the alligator's femoral head moves beyond the bony socket and doesn't act as a simple pivot point, while fibrocartilaginous surfaces remain in contact throughout hip movement, similar to bird joints. The study also showed evidence of soft tissue deformation and sliding during locomotion, with the joint's ligament constrained by surrounding bone structures, providing new insights into how these complex joint systems function during movement.

NA

DOI: 10.1007/s12195-019-00584-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:32:08
This study investigated whether periodic mechanical loading could improve the preservation of cartilage tissue by testing rolling-sliding stimulation on pig knee cartilage samples. The researchers compared cartilage samples subjected to mechanical loading cycles every 3 days against control samples stored in culture medium alone, measuring cell survival, tissue structure, mechanical properties, and protein signaling pathways over 28 days.

The mechanically stimulated cartilage showed significantly better chondrocyte survival rates, higher proteoglycan and collagen content, and superior mechanical properties compared to controls at 14 days, though these benefits diminished by day 28. The loading activated the MEK/ERK signaling pathway and reduced expression of cell death proteins, suggesting that mechanical stimulation helps maintain cartilage vitality by promoting cell survival pathways and inhibiting programmed cell death during preservation.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PROTEOGLYCAN LOSS, OVERLOADING-INDUCED COLLAGEN DAMAGE, AND CYCLIC LOADING IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603519885005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:32:01
This study investigated how collagen damage and mechanical loading interact to affect proteoglycan loss in articular cartilage. The researchers used 56 bovine cartilage samples that underwent mechanical overloading to create collagen damage, followed by cyclic loading, while measuring proteoglycan release and assessing collagen damage histologically over 48 hours. The key findings showed that proteoglycan loss increased linearly with the total amount of collagen damage and was particularly dependent on the presence (but not amount) of internal collagen damage within the tissue. While cyclic loading alone increased proteoglycan loss in healthy cartilage, it did not cause additional proteoglycan loss in cartilage that already had collagen damage.

ARTICULAR JOINT-SIMULATING MECHANICAL LOAD ACTIVATES ENDOGENOUS TGF-Β IN A HIGHLY CELLULARIZED BIOADHESIVE HYDROGEL FOR CARTILAGE REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546519887909 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:31:56
This study aimed to develop an injectable hydrogel biomaterial that could harness natural joint loading to promote cartilage repair in osteochondral defects without requiring external growth factors. The researchers encapsulated human bone marrow stem cells in tyramine-modified hyaluronic acid (HA-TYR) hydrogels and subjected them to simulated joint loading (compression and shear forces) for 4 weeks, while measuring the material's adhesive properties, cell invasion resistance, and growth factor production. The key findings showed that mechanical loading activated the cells' own production of TGF-β1 (a key cartilage-promoting growth factor), the hydrogel strongly adhered to cartilage tissue, and importantly, prevented unwanted cell infiltration from surrounding bone marrow. This biomaterial shows promise as a novel treatment approach that uses the body's natural joint movement to stimulate cartilage regeneration.

PRE-CONTRAST T1 AND CARTILAGE THICKNESS AS CONFOUNDING FACTORS IN DGEMRIC WHEN EVALUATING HUMAN CARTILAGE ADAPTATION TO PHYSICAL ACTIVITY.

DOI: 10.1186/s12880-019-0399-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:31:50
This study investigated whether pre-contrast T1 relaxation times and cartilage thickness act as confounding factors when using dGEMRIC MRI to assess cartilage quality differences between active and sedentary individuals. The researchers measured cartilage thickness and T1 relaxation times before and after gadolinium contrast injection in knee cartilage of 17 healthy volunteers (9 sedentary, 8 elite runners), analyzing both superficial and deep cartilage layers in weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing regions.

The study found that exercising runners had thicker cartilage and longer pre-contrast T1 times compared to sedentary controls, and importantly, gadolinium concentration correlated with cartilage thickness in deep cartilage layers but not superficial layers. The authors conclude that pre-contrast T1 values and cartilage thickness introduce measurement errors in dGEMRIC analysis, suggesting that previously reported exercise-related cartilage adaptations may be less pronounced than originally thought when these confounding factors are properly considered.

DETRIMENTAL EFFECTS OF LONG SEDENTARY BOUTS ON THE BIOMECHANICAL RESPONSE OF CARTILAGE TO SLIDING.

DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2019.1673382 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:31:43
This study investigated how different patterns of joint activity throughout the day affect cartilage biomechanical function, specifically comparing frequent short movement breaks versus infrequent longer activity periods. The researchers used bovine knee cartilage in a specialized sliding test system that mimics a typical day of human joint activity, with fixed amounts of total activity (30 minutes) and sedentary time (60 minutes) arranged in different patterns. The key finding was that longer, uninterrupted sedentary periods caused significantly greater cartilage strain, loss of internal fluid pressure, and increased friction compared to shorter sedentary periods interrupted by brief activity. These results suggest that taking regular short movement breaks (e.g., every hour) may be better for joint health than having one longer exercise session after prolonged sitting, even when total daily activity time remains the same.

BIOREACTOR FOR MOBILIZATION OF MESENCHYMAL STEM/STROMAL CELLS INTO SCAFFOLDS UNDER MECHANICAL STIMULATION: PRELIMINARY RESULTS.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0227553 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:31:36
This study aimed to develop and test a bioreactor system that uses mechanical stimulation to enhance the movement of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from a cell reservoir into cartilage scaffolds, mimicking how mechanical forces might promote natural cartilage repair. The researchers created a compression bioreactor that applied intermittent loading (0.3 Hz frequency with rest periods) to alginate scaffolds positioned above MSC reservoirs, comparing continuous versus intermittent mechanical stimulation over 24 hours. The key findings showed that intermittent mechanical loading was superior to continuous loading for maintaining cell viability (67% vs 34% survival), and functionalizing the alginate scaffolds with laminin-521 protein significantly increased MSC mobilization into the scaffolds (from 48 to 194 cells/mm³). The bioreactor system successfully demonstrated that controlled mechanical stimulation combined with appropriate scaffold modifications can promote MSC migration, which could inform future cartilage tissue engineering strategies.

IMPACT OF KNEE JOINT LOADING ON FRAGMENTATION OF SERUM CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.24586 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:31:29
This study investigated how different types of mechanical knee loading during running affect the breakdown patterns of COMP, a protein marker of cartilage turnover, in the blood. Ten healthy men ran on treadmills wearing either passive knee braces or active braces that increased knee flexion forces, while researchers measured COMP levels and fragment patterns in blood samples taken before, immediately after, and up to 2 hours post-exercise. Both running conditions increased total serum COMP levels and produced different fragmentation patterns, with passive braces leading to more sustained increases in smaller COMP fragments (suggesting ongoing breakdown) while active braces showed decreasing fragments over time (suggesting faster clearance). The findings indicate that the type and magnitude of knee joint loading influences both cartilage protein release and subsequent breakdown processes, which may have implications for understanding cartilage health in different loading conditions.

PYKNEER: AN IMAGE ANALYSIS WORKFLOW FOR OPEN AND REPRODUCIBLE RESEARCH ON FEMORAL KNEE CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226501 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:31:21
This study developed PYKNEER, an open-source software framework designed to make knee cartilage research more transparent and reproducible using MRI images. The Python-based tool features three main modules: image preprocessing to standardize data, automated segmentation of femoral knee cartilage across different types of scans, and analysis of cartilage structure and tissue properties. The framework uses Jupyter notebooks as its user interface and is freely available on GitHub, making it accessible to researchers without advanced programming skills. Testing showed that PYKNEER performs comparably to existing algorithms while offering superior accessibility and reproducibility for studying knee osteoarthritis and cartilage degeneration.

THE HABITUAL MOTION PATH THEORY: EVIDENCE FROM CARTILAGE VOLUME REDUCTIONS IN THE KNEE JOINT AFTER 75 MINUTES OF RUNNING.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-58352-5 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:31:16
This study tested the Habitual Motion Path (HMP) theory, which proposes that deviating from an individual's natural movement pattern during running increases knee cartilage stress. Researchers used 3D movement analysis to measure each runner's natural HMP (determined from squatting motion) and compared it to their running gait in different shoes, then used 3.0-Tesla MRI to measure knee cartilage volume changes before and after 75 minutes of running. The results showed that runners with greater deviation from their natural movement path experienced significantly more cartilage volume loss in the medial knee compartment and patella, and specific footwear that increased HMP deviation led to greater cartilage volume reduction in the medial tibia. These findings suggest that runners may reduce knee joint stress by maintaining movement patterns closer to their natural HMP and by selecting footwear that minimizes deviation from their individual biomechanical preferences.

QUANTIFYING THE BIOCHEMICAL STATE OF KNEE CARTILAGE IN RESPONSE TO RUNNING USING T1RHO MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-58573-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:31:09
This study investigated how running affects knee cartilage composition in healthy male runners using specialized MRI techniques. The researchers used T1rho MRI to measure cartilage changes in eight asymptomatic male runners before, immediately after, and 24 hours after running both 3-mile and 10-mile distances. The results showed that cartilage T1rho values decreased immediately after running (indicating increased proteoglycan concentration due to water being squeezed out), with greater changes after 10 miles compared to 3 miles (11% vs 4% decrease). Importantly, all cartilage changes returned to baseline levels within 24 hours, suggesting that knee cartilage recovers fully from the mechanical stress of running up to 10 miles in healthy individuals.

EVALUATION OF SERUM ARGS NEOEPITOPE AS AN OSTEOARTHRITIS BIOMARKER USING A STANDARDIZED MODEL FOR EXERCISE-INDUCED CARTILAGE EXTRA CELLULAR MATRIX TURNOVER.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ocarto.2020.100060 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:31:04
This study aimed to develop a standardized exercise model to evaluate serum ARGS (sARGS) as a biomarker for osteoarthritis by measuring how physical activity affects cartilage turnover. Researchers conducted a randomized crossover trial with 20 knee osteoarthritis patients and 20 healthy young adults, measuring sARGS levels in blood samples taken before, immediately after, and up to 24 hours following cycling, running, and resting interventions. The study found that sARGS is a stable and reproducible biomarker with low sensitivity to physical activity, showing only small acute increases after moderate exercise in osteoarthritis patients that returned to normal within 24 hours. Importantly, baseline sARGS levels were negatively correlated with osteoarthritis severity (Kellgren-Lawrence grade), suggesting that more severe joint damage is associated with lower circulating levels of this cartilage breakdown marker.

EFFECTS OF FOCAL METALLIC IMPLANTS ON OPPOSING CARTILAGE - AN IN-VITRO STUDY WITH AN ABRASION TEST MACHINE.

DOI: 10.1186/s12891-020-03292-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:30:57
This study aimed to evaluate whether focal metallic implants (FMI) used to treat cartilage defects in patients over 45 years cause damage to the opposing healthy cartilage. The researchers used an abrasion testing machine to apply cyclic loading (33N compression with 10mm shearing motion) to porcine tibial cartilage plugs positioned against FMIs for either 1 or 6 hours, then examined the cartilage for histological damage. After 1 hour of testing, no cartilage damage was observed, but after 6 hours, most samples showed signs of injury ranging from surface-level (grade 1) to deeper zone damage (grade 2). The findings suggest that FMIs can cause cartilage damage to opposing surfaces under prolonged physiological loading, leading the authors to recommend careful evaluation of existing cartilage defects before considering FMI treatment.

CHANGES IN KNEE ADDUCTION MOMENT WEARING A VARIABLE-STIFFNESS SHOE CORRELATE WITH CHANGES IN PAIN AND MECHANICALLY STIMULATED CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX LEVELS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.24770 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:30:51
This study investigated whether changes in knee loading from wearing variable-stiffness shoes are linked to improvements in knee osteoarthritis symptoms and cartilage biomarkers. Nineteen subjects with medial knee osteoarthritis completed 6 months of wearing variable-stiffness shoes, with researchers measuring knee adduction moments during walking, WOMAC pain/function scores, and blood levels of COMP (a cartilage breakdown marker) before and after 30-minute walking tests. The results showed that participants who had greater reductions in knee loading (adduction moment) experienced larger decreases in cartilage stress responses (lower COMP levels after walking) and significantly greater improvements in pain and function scores. These findings suggest that variable-stiffness shoes may benefit knee osteoarthritis patients by reducing mechanical stress on cartilage, with the degree of load reduction correlating with both biochemical and clinical improvements.

EFFECTIVELY MEASURING EXERCISE-RELATED VARIATIONS IN T1Ρ AND T2 RELAXATION TIMES OF HEALTHY ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/jmri.27278 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:30:45
This study aimed to determine whether exercise-induced changes in knee cartilage composition, measured using MRI T1ρ and T2 relaxation mapping, could be distinguished from normal measurement variability. The researchers first established the repeatability of these MRI measurements in 10 healthy participants, then assessed cartilage changes in 9 participants before and after a 5-minute stepping exercise using 3T MRI. The study found that both T1ρ and T2 measurements were highly repeatable (variability <1.1%) when knee positioning remained constant, though repositioning the knee increased measurement variability, particularly for patellar cartilage T1ρ values. Following the stepping exercise, significant changes in cartilage composition were detected that exceeded measurement error thresholds, with decreases of 5-8% in most cartilage regions for both T1ρ and T2, demonstrating that dynamic loading assessment may provide more sensitive evaluation of cartilage health than static imaging alone.

EFFECTS OF IN VIVO CYCLIC COMPRESSIVE LOADING ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF LOCAL COL2 AND SUPERFICIAL LUBRICIN IN RAT KNEE CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.24812 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:30:38
This study investigated how a single episode of cyclic mechanical loading affects cartilage structure and protein distribution in rat knees to understand post-traumatic osteoarthritis development. Researchers applied 60 cycles of either 20N or 50N compression to rat knee joints and analyzed cartilage changes using histology and immunohistochemistry at multiple time points up to 8 weeks post-loading. The loading protocol consistently caused localized cartilage lesions on the lateral femoral condyle, with increased type II collagen expression and initial loss of the protective lubricin layer at the cartilage surface. Importantly, the superficial lubricin layer naturally recovered to normal levels within 4 weeks, suggesting that joints have effective repair mechanisms that may help delay osteoarthritis progression after traumatic injury.

EFFECTS OF AQUATIC CONDITIONING ON CARTILAGE AND BONE METABOLISM IN YOUNG HORSES.

DOI: 10.1093/jas/skaa239 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:30:32
This study investigated whether aquatic exercise affects cartilage and bone metabolism differently than dry exercise in young horses during growth and training progression. Thirty Quarter Horse yearlings were randomly assigned to three groups for 140 days: no exercise control, dry treadmill exercise, or aquatic treadmill exercise (water at 60% wither height), with both exercise groups walking 30 minutes daily before transitioning to advanced workloads. The researchers measured bone density via radiographs and analyzed blood and joint fluid samples for markers of bone formation, bone breakdown, and cartilage metabolism every 14-28 days.

The main findings showed that both exercise groups maintained more consistent bone metabolism markers compared to controls, suggesting exercise supports uniform bone development during growth. However, there were no significant differences between aquatic and dry exercise groups in terms of bone density, cartilage breakdown markers, or joint inflammation, indicating that aquatic exercise is as safe and effective as traditional dry exercise for young horses.

HIGHER BODY MASS INDEX IS ASSOCIATED WITH BIOCHEMICAL CHANGES IN KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AFTER MARATHON RUNNING: A QUANTITATIVE T2-RELAXATION MRI STUDY.

DOI: 10.1177/2325967120943874 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:30:24
This study investigated how marathon running immediately affects knee cartilage and whether body mass index (BMI) influences these changes. The researchers used T2-relaxation MRI to scan the knees of 18 recreational marathon runners before and after completing a full marathon, creating 3D models to analyze cartilage changes in different knee regions. The study found that marathon running caused immediate increases in T2-relaxation times in the patellofemoral and medial tibial cartilage, indicating biochemical changes in cartilage composition, with the greatest changes occurring in the anterior medial tibial area. Importantly, runners with higher BMI showed significantly greater cartilage changes in the anteromedial knee region, suggesting they may be at higher risk for cartilage degeneration from marathon running.

T2 MAPPING VALUES IN POSTMENISCECTOMY KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AFTER RUNNING: EARLY SIGNS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS?

DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1718596 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:30:19
This study investigated whether running causes detectable cartilage changes in knees following partial meniscectomy that might indicate early osteoarthritis development. Twelve volunteers who had undergone medial partial meniscectomy underwent MRI with T2 mapping of both knees before and immediately after 30 minutes of running to assess cartilage water content and organization. The operated knees showed significantly lower T2 values after running in multiple regions of both medial and lateral compartments, while healthy control knees showed no significant changes with running. These findings suggest that running may place excessive mechanical stress on cartilage in post-meniscectomy knees, potentially representing early signs of cartilage degeneration that could progress to osteoarthritis.

DOSE AND RECOVERY RESPONSE OF PATELLOFEMORAL CARTILAGE DEFORMATIONS TO RUNNING.

DOI: 10.1177/2325967120967512 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:30:15
This study investigated how running distance affects patellofemoral cartilage thickness and recovery time in healthy male runners. Eight asymptomatic men underwent MRI scans of their knee before, immediately after, and 24 hours after running both 3-mile and 10-mile distances on separate occasions. The results showed that patellar cartilage thickness decreased immediately after running in a dose-dependent manner (5% compression after 3 miles vs 8% after 10 miles), but fully recovered to baseline levels within 24 hours for both distances. These findings provide important baseline data on normal cartilage response to running that could help optimize training protocols and understand patellofemoral pain mechanisms.

LONG-TERM PROSPECTIVE CLINICAL AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING-BASED EVALUATION OF MATRIX-INDUCED AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546520980109 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:30:09
This long-term study evaluated the clinical and imaging outcomes of matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) for knee cartilage repair at a minimum of 10 years after surgery. Researchers followed 87 patients (99 grafts) across various knee locations using patient-reported outcomes, functional tests, and MRI scans at multiple time points up to 13.1 years on average.

The study found that all patient-reported outcomes significantly improved from before surgery to final follow-up, with most improvements maintained from 2 years onward, and 88.5% of patients reported overall satisfaction. MRI showed that 90.9% of grafts survived without failure, though there was a slight decline in tissue quality over time. Importantly, patients with more previous knee surgeries had worse outcomes, while factors like age, weight, and defect size did not significantly affect results.

A PROBABILISTIC FAILURE RISK APPROACH TO THE PROBLEM OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE LUBRICATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2021.106053 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:30:02
This study aimed to investigate how uncertainty in cartilage surface properties, particularly glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content, affects joint lubrication performance using a probabilistic approach. The researchers used Monte Carlo simulation to generate correlated data on gap asperity stiffness and polymer brush border thickness, which were then input into a sophisticated cartilage contact model that incorporated key tissue features like tension-compression behavior and GAG-dependent properties.

The study revealed competing effects of GAG concentration on lubrication: increased GAG content enhanced lubrication by creating thicker polymer brush borders that resist fluid flow, but simultaneously impaired lubrication by making surface asperities stiffer and promoting fluid loss from the contact gap. The authors concluded that cartilage lubrication performance varies significantly with physiological conditions, and that probabilistic approaches accounting for tissue uncertainties may provide more accurate assessments of joint lubrication than traditional deterministic methods.

EFFECTS OF EXERCISE TRAINING ALONE AND IN COMBINATION WITH KINESIO TAPING ON PAIN, FUNCTIONALITY, AND BIOMARKERS RELATED TO THE CARTILAGE METABOLISM IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1177/19476035211007895 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:29:56
This study investigated whether adding Kinesio taping to exercise training provides additional benefits for knee osteoarthritis patients compared to exercise alone. Twenty-two women with knee OA were randomly assigned to either 6 weeks of exercise training alone or exercise training combined with Kinesio taping, with researchers measuring pain, function, and blood levels of cartilage breakdown markers (COMP, MMP-1, MMP-3) before and after treatment. Both treatment groups showed significant improvements in pain and physical function scores, but there were no differences between the groups and no changes in cartilage biomarker levels. The findings suggest that while exercise training effectively reduces symptoms in knee OA, adding Kinesio taping does not provide additional clinical benefits, and neither intervention appears to alter cartilage metabolism markers in the blood.

SLIDING CONTACT ACCELERATES SOLUTE TRANSPORT INTO THE CARTILAGE SURFACE COMPARED TO AXIAL LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2021.05.060 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:29:50
This study compared how different types of mechanical loading affect the transport of molecules into cartilage tissue. The researchers tested osteochondral plugs under sliding motion versus axial compression, and measured fluorescent solute uptake using microscopy, while also examining the role of the cartilage surface layer by comparing intact samples to those with the superficial zone removed.

The key finding was that sliding contact enhanced solute transport much more effectively than axial compression, with 2.1-fold higher uptake at 30 minutes and 4.4-fold higher uptake at 2 hours. Both mechanical loading conditions achieved in 2 hours what took 12 hours under passive diffusion alone, and removing the superficial cartilage layer increased transport, indicating this surface region acts as a barrier to diffusion.

The results suggest that sliding motion can drive solute uptake beyond the tissue's normal equilibrium capacity, which has important implications for cartilage nutrition, tissue engineering approaches, and understanding how mechanical forces influence biochemical signaling in joints.

NA

DOI: 10.1177/19476035211021891 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:29:43
This study investigated how running affects knee cartilage in healthy adolescent male basketball players (average age 13.8 years) using quantitative T2 MRI imaging. Fifteen participants underwent MRI scans before and after a 30-minute treadmill run (average distance 5.77 km), with T2 maps generated to assess cartilage microstructural changes. The results showed significant decreases in T2 values in weight-bearing regions of the medial knee compartment after running, including the central and posterior femoral condyle and posterior tibial plateau, while the lateral compartment showed no changes. These findings suggest that running causes detectable microstructural changes in adolescent knee cartilage, particularly in weight-bearing areas of the medial compartment.

EFFECTS OF CHONDROGENIC PRIMING DURATION ON MECHANOREGULATION OF ENGINEERED CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110580 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:29:37
This study investigated how the timing of mechanical loading affects cartilage tissue engineering by examining different durations of chondrogenic priming before applying dynamic compression. The researchers cultured human bone marrow stromal cells in fibrin hydrogels under chondrogenic conditions for 0, 2, 4, or 6 weeks, then subjected them to either static culture or dynamic compression for two additional weeks while measuring mechanical properties, matrix composition, and gene expression. Dynamic compression improved the mechanical properties of engineered cartilage constructs, with the specific effects depending on priming duration—early loading (≤4 weeks priming) suppressed undesirable bone-forming signals and maintained cartilage-specific gene expression, while later loading (6 weeks priming) promoted cartilage maturation markers. These findings suggest that the timing of mechanical stimulation is critical in cartilage tissue engineering, with early loading favoring cartilage maintenance and delayed loading supporting natural cartilage development processes.

INTRA-ARTICULAR INJECTION OF KARTOGENIN-ENHANCED BONE MARROW-DERIVED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS IN THE TREATMENT OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS IN A RAT MODEL.

DOI: 10.1177/03635465211023183 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:29:31
This study investigated whether kartogenin (KGN)-enhanced bone marrow stem cells could improve cartilage repair in osteoarthritis treatment. The researchers used a specialized nanoparticle delivery system (nanographene oxide) to deliver KGN into stem cells, then tested these enhanced cells both in laboratory conditions and in rats with surgically-induced knee osteoarthritis through intra-articular injections at 6 and 9 weeks post-surgery. The results showed that KGN-enhanced stem cells demonstrated superior cartilage-forming ability in laboratory tests and significantly better outcomes in the rat model, including reduced joint space narrowing, less mineralization, improved tissue regeneration, and decreased pain compared to control groups. The findings suggest that using nanoparticle-delivered KGN to enhance stem cells before injection may offer a promising new approach for osteoarthritis treatment.

INDIVIDUAL AND CUMULATIVE MEASURES OF KNEE JOINT LOAD ASSOCIATE WITH T2 RELAXATION TIMES OF KNEE CARTILAGE IN YOUNG, UNINJURED INDIVIDUALS: A PILOT STUDY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.knee.2021.07.004 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:29:25
This pilot study investigated how knee joint loading relates to cartilage health in young, healthy individuals by examining the association between physical activity patterns and cartilage T2 relaxation times (a marker of cartilage structure). The researchers used MRI to measure cartilage T2 times, accelerometry to track daily activity over 7 days, and 3D motion capture during walking to assess knee joint forces in 12 participants aged 17-30 years without knee injuries. The study found that higher T2 relaxation times (indicating potential cartilage changes) were consistently associated with greater body mass, more daily steps, higher levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, and increased peak knee joint forces during walking. These preliminary findings suggest that both individual loading factors and cumulative knee joint loading may influence cartilage structure even in young, healthy knees.

COMPARISON OF ARTHROSCOPIC TREATMENT METHODS IN TALAR OSTEOCHONDRAL LESIONS: A MULTICENTER, PROSPECTIVE, RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL.

DOI: 10.7547/20-218 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:29:19
This multicenter randomized clinical trial compared three arthroscopic treatment approaches for talar osteochondral lesions in 62 patients. The study randomly assigned patients to receive either microfracture alone (22 patients), microfracture plus platelet-rich plasma/PRP (19 patients), or microfracture plus BST-CarGel scaffold (21 patients), with outcomes measured using standard foot and ankle scoring systems and return-to-sports timing. All three treatments significantly improved pain and functional scores compared to preoperative levels, but the BST-CarGel group showed superior results with the greatest improvement in ankle function scores (48.80-point increase vs. 46.68 for PRP and 29.63 for microfracture alone). The authors conclude that BST-CarGel scaffold application after microfracture provides the best clinical outcomes and can be safely used for cartilage defects larger than 1.5 cm².

SERUM CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN IS DECREASED IN PATIENTS WITH PULMONARY HYPERTENSION: A POTENTIAL PROTECTIVE FACTOR.

DOI: 10.1177/20458940211031111 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:29:12
This study investigated whether serum levels of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), a known cardiovascular protective factor, are altered in patients with pulmonary hypertension. The researchers measured COMP concentrations using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 35 newly diagnosed pulmonary hypertension patients compared to 70 healthy controls, and analyzed associations with clinical parameters. The key finding was that serum COMP levels were significantly lower in pulmonary hypertension patients compared to controls, particularly in female patients, with some negative correlations observed between COMP levels and specific heart function measures on echocardiography. The authors conclude that decreased COMP may reflect its protective role in cardiovascular disease and suggest further research is needed to explore its relationship with long-term patient outcomes.

FEWER DAILY STEPS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH GREATER CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN RESPONSE TO LOADING POST-ACL RECONSTRUCTION.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.25268 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:29:07
This study investigated how daily walking activity affects cartilage health in people who have undergone ACL reconstruction surgery by examining changes in a blood biomarker associated with cartilage breakdown. Researchers tracked daily steps and walking intensity in 31 ACL-reconstructed individuals and 21 healthy controls using accelerometers, then measured changes in serum COMP (a protein indicating cartilage turnover) before and after a standardized 3000-step walking test. In the ACL-reconstructed group, people who took fewer daily steps and spent less time walking at moderate intensity (≥100 steps/minute) showed greater increases in COMP following the walking test, while no such relationship was found in healthy controls. These findings suggest that ACL-reconstructed individuals with lower daily activity levels may experience greater cartilage stress responses to walking, potentially increasing their risk for developing osteoarthritis.

EFFECT OF PULSED LOW-INTENSITY ULTRASONOGRAPHY ON SYMPTOM RELIEF AND TIBIOFEMORAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE THICKNESS AMONG VETERANS AFFAIRS ENROLLEES WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL.

DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.0632 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:29:00
This randomized controlled trial investigated whether pulsed low-intensity ultrasonography (PLIUS) could reduce symptoms and preserve cartilage thickness in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The study enrolled 132 Veterans Affairs participants with early knee OA who self-administered either PLIUS or sham treatment for 20 minutes daily over 48 weeks, with outcomes measured using validated symptom response criteria and MRI-based cartilage thickness measurements. Results showed no significant difference between groups for either outcome: 70.4% of PLIUS patients versus 67.3% of sham patients experienced symptomatic improvement (not clinically meaningful), and cartilage thickness actually decreased slightly more in the PLIUS group compared to sham. The study concluded that PLIUS, as implemented in this protocol, provided neither symptomatic benefit nor cartilage preservation in knee osteoarthritis patients.

INVESTIGATING ACUTE CHANGES IN OSTEOARTHRITIC CARTILAGE BY INTEGRATING BIOMECHANICS AND STATISTICAL SHAPE MODELS OF BONE: DATA FROM THE OSTEOARTHRITIS INITIATIVE.

DOI: 10.1007/s10334-022-01004-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:28:54
This proof-of-principle study aimed to determine how joint loading forces and bone shape influence acute cartilage changes during physical activity in women with knee osteoarthritis. Researchers measured joint reaction forces during walking and cycling in 16 participants, then used MRI before and after 25-minute exercise sessions to assess changes in cartilage thickness and composition (T₂ relaxation time), while incorporating bone shape analysis using statistical shape models. The study found that walking and cycling produced distinct patterns of cartilage deformation, with cartilage thickness decreasing on the lateral tibia and T₂ values decreasing on the medial tibia, while higher joint forces correlated with greater cartilage deformation in specific regions. This research provides the first in vivo evidence that acute cartilage deformation depends on both mechanical loading forces and individual bone shape characteristics in osteoarthritic knees.

EXPERIMENTAL-ANALYTICAL APPROACH TO ASSESSING MECHANOSENSITIVE CARTILAGE BLOOD MARKER KINETICS IN HEALTHY ADULTS: DOSE-RESPONSE RELATIONSHIP AND INTERRELATIONSHIP OF NINE CANDIDATE MARKERS.

DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.52159.2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:28:48
This study aimed to identify which blood biomarkers can reliably detect cartilage responses to mechanical loading and determine how these markers change with different load magnitudes. The researchers had 24 healthy adults perform 30-minute walking tests at three different body weight loads (80%, 100%, and 120%) while measuring nine cartilage-related blood markers before and after exercise using immunoassays. Five markers (COMP, MMP-3, IL-6, MMP-9, and ADAMTS-4) showed significant responses to loading, with changes up to 25% from baseline levels and load-dependent variations up to 8% between different weight conditions. The findings suggest that COMP provides rapid cartilage response detection, while MMP-3 offers more sustained and load-magnitude sensitive responses, making these markers promising tools for studying cartilage mechanobiology and potentially monitoring joint health.

DORSIFLEXION AND HOP BIOMECHANICS ASSOCIATE WITH GREATER TALAR CARTILAGE DEFORMATION IN THOSE WITH CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY.

DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000002902 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:28:41
This study investigated how ankle mobility, functional performance, and movement patterns relate to cartilage deformation in people with chronic ankle instability (CAI). The researchers tested 30 CAI patients and 30 healthy controls using ankle flexibility measurements, functional hop tests, 3D movement analysis during hopping, and ultrasound imaging to measure talar cartilage thickness changes after 60 single-leg hops. In the CAI group, reduced ankle flexibility, poorer hop performance, higher ground reaction forces, faster loading rates, and landing with the ankle in a plantarflexed position were all associated with greater cartilage deformation after the hopping protocol. These findings suggest that addressing ankle mobility limitations and movement dysfunction in CAI patients may help protect cartilage and potentially slow the development of post-traumatic ankle arthritis.

AUTHOR CORRECTION: RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DIFFERENT SERUM CARTILAGE BIOMARKERS IN THE ACUTE RESPONSE TO RUNNING AND JUMPING IN HEALTHY MALE INDIVIDUALS.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11194-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:28:35
I cannot provide a meaningful summary of this study because the abstract is not available (marked as "NA").

This appears to be an author correction to a previously published study that investigated how different blood markers of cartilage health respond to running and jumping exercise in healthy men.

To write an accurate summary focusing on the study objective, methods, and findings, I would need access to either the original abstract or the full text of the correction.

Please provide the complete abstract or additional details about the study's content.

MECHANICAL AND SENSORIMOTOR OUTCOMES ASSOCIATED WITH TALAR CARTILAGE DEFORMATION AFTER STATIC LOADING IN THOSE WITH CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY.

DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0520.21 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:28:29
This study investigated how ankle cartilage responds to loading in people with chronic ankle instability (CAI) and identified which physical impairments are linked to abnormal cartilage behavior. Researchers used ultrasound to measure talar cartilage thickness changes before and after a 2-minute single-leg standing task in 30 individuals with CAI and 30 healthy controls, while also assessing ankle joint laxity and balance performance. In the CAI group, greater ankle joint looseness (inversion laxity) and poorer side-to-side balance control were moderately associated with greater cartilage deformation during loading, while healthy individuals showed only minimal associations between balance and cartilage response. These findings suggest that rehabilitation programs targeting joint stability and balance deficits in CAI patients may help improve how ankle cartilage handles mechanical stress, potentially reducing long-term cartilage damage.

ANALYSIS OF KNEE JOINT INJURY CAUSED BY PHYSICAL TRAINING OF FRESHMEN STUDENTS BASED ON 3T MRI AND AUTOMATIC CARTILAGE SEGMENTATION TECHNOLOGY: A PROSPECTIVE STUDY.

DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.839112 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:28:23
This prospective study examined how different types of physical training affect knee joint health in 23 male college freshmen using 3T MRI with automated cartilage analysis. The researchers compared baseline measurements with outcomes after an intense 8-day, 240km walking challenge and one year of regular daily training, assessing cartilage structure and joint injuries across 21 knee subregions. The long-distance walking caused significant acute injuries including meniscal damage, ligament injury, joint effusion, and bone marrow edema, along with decreased cartilage thickness, while regular daily training increased cartilage volume (particularly in weight-bearing areas) without causing substantial joint injury. The findings suggest that moderate daily exercise promotes beneficial cartilage adaptations and joint health, whereas intense short-term activity like long-distance walking can cause reversible but significant knee injuries.

MEASUREMENT OF GLOBAL MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF HUMAN THORAX: COSTAL CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2022.111242 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:28:16
This study aimed to measure the mechanical properties of human costal cartilage to inform the development of improved chest wall implants, as current titanium implants often fail due to inadequate mechanical characteristics. The researchers conducted comprehensive mechanical testing including bending, torsion, and tensile tests on human costal cartilage specimens to determine elastic and shear moduli in multiple directions. Key findings revealed substantial variation in mechanical properties: elastic moduli for bending ranged from 2.2 to 60.8 MPa, shear moduli from 5.7 to 24.7 MPa, and tensile elastic moduli from 5.6 to 29.6 MPa. These measured properties will be incorporated into finite element models of the thorax to better understand ribcage biomechanics and guide the design of more effective chest wall reconstruction implants.

AN IN VITRO METHODOLOGY FOR EXPERIMENTAL SIMULATION ON THE NATURAL HIP JOINT.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272264 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:28:10
This study aimed to develop a reliable laboratory method for testing natural hip joints under controlled conditions to better understand how different loading patterns affect joint damage. The researchers used porcine hip joints mounted in a hip simulator and tested them under three different loading conditions (normal, overload, and overload plus) while applying simplified walking motion cycles for 4 hours, with joint surfaces photographed before, during, and after testing. The results showed that normal loading caused no visible damage, while both overload conditions caused tears and detachment of the labrum (cartilage rim) in the antero-superior region, with damage severity increasing with higher loads. The consistent location and pattern of damage across samples tested under the same conditions validates this methodology as a useful tool for studying how abnormal hip mechanics lead to joint deterioration.

NA

DOI: 10.1088/1748-605X/ac8bbd · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:28:04
This study aimed to develop an injectable hydrogel system with enhanced mechanical properties for cartilage repair applications. The researchers created a novel combination of β-cyclodextrin-grafted alginate and pluronic-amine polymers, utilizing multiple physical crosslinking mechanisms (electrostatic forces, host-guest interactions, and temperature-responsive hydrophobic interactions) to overcome the typical mechanical weakness of injectable hydrogels. The resulting hydrogel achieved a shear modulus exceeding 40 kPa while maintaining injectability, demonstrated rapid gelation (under one minute at 28°C), supported mesenchymal stem cell viability and differentiation into chondrocytes when loaded with kartogenin, and showed controlled drug release with extended degradation time (two weeks versus six days for controls). These properties suggest the hydrogel system is a promising candidate for cartilage tissue engineering applications.

WALKING SPEED DOES NOT AFFECT NET VASTUS LATERALIS FASCICLE LENGTH CHANGE ON AVERAGE DURING WEIGHT ACCEPTANCE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2022.111300 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:27:57
This study investigated how quadriceps muscle fascicles (contractile units) behave during the weight acceptance phase of walking at different speeds, given that faster walking is associated with better cartilage health. Researchers used ultrasound to measure vastus lateralis fascicle length changes while participants walked at three speeds (0.75 m/s, preferred speed, and 1.75 m/s), alongside measurements of muscle activity, knee moments, and ground reaction forces. The key finding was that despite greater mechanical demands at faster speeds, net fascicle length change remained constant across walking speeds, with the muscle resisting lengthening through increased activation while tendons accommodated the additional stretch. These results suggest healthy tendons play a crucial role in adapting to faster walking speeds and highlight the need for similar studies in people with quadriceps weakness or osteoarthritis risk.

COMPARISON OF THICKNESSES OF TALAR CARTILAGE, TIBIALIS ANTERIOR, AND GASTROCNEMIUS MUSCLES BETWEEN HIGH-ACTIVITY PATIENTS WITH UNILATERAL TRAUMATIC TRANSTIBIAL AMPUTATION AND NONAMPUTATED INDIVIDUALS: A CLINICAL AND SONOGRAPHIC STUDY.

DOI: 10.1097/PXR.0000000000000159 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:27:51
This study aimed to compare ankle cartilage and muscle thickness between the intact limbs of traumatic transtibial amputees and healthy controls, and examine relationships with clinical function. The researchers used musculoskeletal ultrasound to measure talar cartilage and lower leg muscle thickness in 36 high-activity unilateral amputees and 36 matched controls, along with functional assessments including walking tests and quality-of-life measures. The main findings showed that two muscles (tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius medialis) were significantly thicker on the intact limbs of amputees compared to controls, while talar cartilage thickness remained similar between groups. The muscle thickening correlated positively with prosthesis use duration and physical health scores, suggesting this represents beneficial adaptive changes rather than pathological deterioration in this active population.

SUPERFICIAL ZONE CHONDROCYTES CAN GET COMPACTED UNDER PHYSIOLOGICAL LOADING: A MULTISCALE FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.10.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:27:45
This study aimed to understand the mechanical environment that causes superficial zone (SZ) chondrocytes in joint cartilage to die under normal physiological loading conditions. The researchers used multiscale finite element analysis to simulate articular contact and track changes in SZ chondrocyte fluid pressure, permeability, and volume during loading, while varying the properties of the surrounding pericellular matrix. The analysis revealed that SZ chondrocytes can lose up to 90% of their intracellular fluid after several hours of intermittent or continuous loading, with hydraulic permeability dropping by more than three orders of magnitude. These findings suggest that normal activities like walking or standing can mechanically compress these cells to the point where metabolic processes are impaired, providing a simple mechanical explanation for why superficial zone chondrocytes are vulnerable to cell death under everyday joint loading.

[EFFECT OF XANTHOHUMOL-LOADED ANTI-INFLAMMATORY SCAFFOLDS ON CARTILAGE REGENERATION IN GOATS].

DOI: 10.7507/1002-1892.202204044 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:27:39
This study aimed to develop xanthohumol-loaded PLGA scaffolds with anti-inflammatory properties and evaluate their effectiveness for cartilage regeneration in goats. The researchers created porous PLGA scaffolds using a pore-causing agent leaching method, loaded them with xanthohumol (an anti-inflammatory compound), and tested them both in laboratory cell culture with goat bone marrow stem cells and through subcutaneous implantation in live goats for 4 weeks. The xanthohumol-loaded scaffolds demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effects, reducing inflammatory markers (IL-1β and TNF-α) compared to plain PLGA scaffolds, while maintaining good cell compatibility and structural properties. Most importantly, when implanted in goats, the drug-loaded scaffolds maintained their shape better, produced more cartilage-specific proteins (collagen type II and glycosaminoglycans), showed typical cartilage structure formation, and exhibited less inflammatory response compared to control scaffolds.

PNEUMATIC PISTON HYDROSTATIC BIOREACTOR FOR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING.

DOI: 10.1080/10739149.2022.2124418 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:27:32
This study aimed to develop an affordable bioreactor system that can apply physiologically relevant mechanical forces to cartilage cells for research purposes. The researchers built a cost-effective device using readily available pneumatic components and 3D-printed culture chambers, capable of delivering cyclic pressure waves ranging from 0-400 kPa at frequencies up to 3.5 Hz to mimic exercise-induced loading on cartilage. Testing with human chondrocytes showed that cells exposed to simulated exercise conditions (300 kPa at 1 Hz for 3 hours daily over 5 days) significantly increased their metabolic activity by 21% and glycosaminoglycan production by 24% compared to controls. The open-design approach using off-the-shelf components and 3D printing addresses the lack of affordable equipment that has limited mechanobiology research progress.

INFLAMMATORY PROCESS ON KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS IN CYCLISTS.

DOI: 10.3390/jcm12113703 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:27:26
This review examined the development and progression of knee osteoarthritis specifically in cyclists, addressing a research area with limited existing studies. The authors used a literature review approach to analyze how repetitive cycling movements contribute to cartilage microtrauma and subsequent osteoarthritic changes in the knee joint. The review found that repetitive concentric movements during cycling can cause microtrauma that initiates osteoarthritis, leading to progressive cartilage matrix damage, subchondral bone changes, and inflammatory responses that may become irreversible over time. The authors concluded that research on cycling-related knee osteoarthritis remains scarce and called for more studies to develop targeted therapeutic strategies for this specific population.

THE BIOMECHANICAL AND FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES OF AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION FOR ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFECTS OF THE KNEE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW.

DOI: 10.1016/j.knee.2023.07.004 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:27:21
This systematic review evaluated the biomechanical and functional outcomes of autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) for treating knee cartilage defects in young, active patients. The researchers searched three major databases and analyzed 19 studies involving 20 ACI patient groups, assessing outcomes like range of motion, knee strength, and functional performance tests. The study found that knee range of motion improved significantly after ACI (from 130.5° to 136.1°), and knee strength improved within the first two years post-surgery, though it remained weaker than healthy controls at longer follow-up periods. The authors concluded that while ACI shows promise for improving knee function, longer-term strength training may be beneficial, and more high-quality research is needed to better understand ACI outcomes and optimize rehabilitation protocols.

LOW-OXYGEN TENSION AUGMENTS CHONDROCYTE SENSITIVITY TO BIOMIMETIC THERMOMECHANICAL CUES IN CARTILAGE-ENGINEERED CONSTRUCTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107491 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:27:15
This study investigated how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) respond to the combined effects of low oxygen levels, temperature changes, and mechanical loading to optimize cartilage tissue engineering. The researchers used a specialized bioreactor that independently controlled oxygen concentration, temperature patterns, and mechanical stimulation to test these interactions on cartilage constructs. The key finding was that combining all three factors resulted in a dramatic 14-fold increase in key cartilage genes (collagen type II and aggrecan) and enhanced protein production, with the SOX9 transcription factor identified as a critical regulator of this response. These results demonstrate that mimicking the natural joint environment through combined biophysical cues significantly improves cartilage formation in engineered constructs.

PIOGLITAZONE-LOADED CARTILAGE-TARGETED NANOMICELLES (PIO@C-HA-DOS) FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS TREATMENT.

DOI: 10.2147/IJN.S428938 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:27:09
This study aimed to develop a cartilage-targeted drug delivery system using hyaluronic acid-based nanomicelles (C-HA-DOS) to improve local delivery of pioglitazone, a promising osteoarthritis drug with limited clinical utility due to poor tissue penetration. The researchers synthesized nanomicelles combining hyaluronic acid with a cartilage-targeting peptide and tested drug loading, release kinetics, cellular uptake, and therapeutic effects in both cell cultures and a rat osteoarthritis model. The nanomicelles successfully targeted cartilage tissue, provided sustained drug release over 24 hours, and were rapidly taken up by chondrocytes, particularly under oxidative stress conditions. Treatment with pioglitazone-loaded nanomicelles protected chondrocytes from oxidative damage, reduced cartilage-degrading enzymes (MMPs and ADAMTS), preserved cartilage matrix components, and slowed osteoarthritis progression in rats compared to controls.

CATIONIC TANTALUM OXIDE NANOPARTICLE CONTRAST AGENT FOR MICRO COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY REVEALS ARTICULAR CARTILAGE PROTEOGLYCAN DISTRIBUTION AND COLLAGEN ARCHITECTURE ALTERATIONS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2023.11.020 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:27:03
This study aimed to establish how cationic tantalum oxide nanoparticles (TaO-CNPs) diffuse through different layers of cartilage and relate this to the tissue's structural components and mechanical properties. The researchers used micro-CT imaging to track nanoparticle diffusion into cartilage samples from 15 healthy horse joints over 96 hours, then compared diffusion patterns against proteoglycan content, collagen content and architecture, and biomechanical properties measured through various testing methods. The key findings showed that nanoparticle uptake strongly correlated with proteoglycan distribution (ρ = 0.87) and cartilage stiffness (ρ = 0.80), while collagen content generally reduced uptake except in the superficial zone where more open collagen architecture enhanced it. This demonstrates that TaO-CNP contrast-enhanced micro-CT can accurately assess both the structural composition and mechanical properties of cartilage, providing a comprehensive tool for evaluating cartilage health.

USE OF A NOVEL MAGNETICALLY ACTUATED COMPRESSION SYSTEM TO STUDY THE TEMPORAL DYNAMICS OF AXIAL AND LATERAL STRAIN IN HUMAN OSTEOCHONDRAL PLUGS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2023.111887 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:26:56
This study aimed to investigate how fluid rehydration affects cartilage behavior during repeated loading cycles, specifically examining strain accumulation (ratcheting) in human cartilage samples. The researchers developed a novel "MagnaSquish" device that uses magnetic actuation to completely lift the loading plate between compression cycles, allowing unrestricted tissue rehydration - unlike traditional systems that maintain continuous contact with the sample. Using this system on cadaveric human osteochondral plugs over 750 loading cycles, they employed deep learning algorithms to track two-dimensional strain patterns and found that shorter recovery times between loading cycles led to greater strain accumulation. The results demonstrated that adequate recovery time for fluid re-entry is crucial for preventing progressive cartilage deformation, with the effects of insufficient recovery persisting for up to five minutes even after loading stopped.

MODIFYING LOADING DURING GAIT LEADS TO BIOCHEMICAL CHANGES IN SERUM CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN CONCENTRATIONS IN A SUBGROUP OF INDIVIDUALS WITH ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION.

DOI: 10.1007/s10067-024-06898-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:26:49
This study investigated whether modifying walking loads affects cartilage health in people with ACL reconstruction, as measured by a blood biomarker called serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (sCOMP). Forty ACL-reconstructed participants walked 3000 steps under four different loading conditions using real-time biofeedback: normal walking, high loading (+5%), low loading (-5%), and symmetrical loading between limbs, with blood samples collected before, immediately after, 1 hour, and 3.5 hours post-walking. While no differences were found across all participants, a subgroup who typically showed increases in sCOMP after walking demonstrated beneficial responses to load modification - specifically, high loading reduced sCOMP immediately after walking compared to low loading, and symmetrical loading reduced sCOMP at 3.5 hours compared to normal walking. These findings suggest that targeted load modification during walking may improve cartilage metabolism in certain ACL-reconstructed individuals, potentially offering a strategy to prevent post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

ULTRASOUND MEASUREMENT OF FEMORAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE THICKNESS BEFORE AND AFTER MARATHON RUNNING.

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52870 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:26:41
This study aimed to measure changes in knee cartilage thickness during marathon running using ultrasound imaging to test whether long-distance running causes excessive cartilage deformation. The researchers used ultrasonography to measure femoral cartilage thickness at the medial and lateral condyles in 38 healthy marathon runners (aged 18-39) both two hours before and immediately after completing a marathon. The results showed only minimal cartilage thickness changes, with the maximum reduction being 6.94% at one specific location (left outer lateral femoral condyle), while all other measured sites showed no significant changes. These findings support the hypothesis that marathon running does not cause greater cartilage deformation than typical daily weight-bearing activities, confirming previous MRI studies that suggest knee cartilage tolerates long-distance running well.

ALTERATIONS IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE FRICTIONAL PROPERTIES IN THE SETTING OF ACUTE GOUTY ARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298722 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:26:35
This study investigated how joint fluid from acute gout affects cartilage friction properties, addressing a research gap in understanding tribological changes during gouty arthritis. The researchers used fixed-load scratch testing to compare friction and wear of articular cartilage when lubricated with either gouty joint fluid or normal joint fluid. The key findings showed that cartilage friction coefficients were significantly higher with gouty joint fluid compared to normal fluid, and the friction response to changes in sliding speed differed markedly from normal conditions. The study concluded that prolonged friction caused more severe cartilage surface wear in the gout condition, leading to the clinical recommendation that gout patients should avoid activities involving sudden speed changes like sprinting or variable-speed running.

IMPACT OF TREADMILL RUNNING ON DISTAL FEMORAL CARTILAGE THICKNESS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF PROFESSIONAL ATHLETES AND HEALTHY CONTROLS.

DOI: 10.1186/s13102-024-00896-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:26:29
This cross-sectional study investigated how treadmill running affects knee cartilage thickness in professional athletes compared to healthy controls. The researchers used ultrasonography to measure distal femoral cartilage thickness at six anatomical sites in 72 professional athletes (aged 20-40 years, minimum 75 minutes/week treadmill running) and 72 age-, sex-, and BMI-matched controls. Athletes showed significantly thinner cartilage at three measurement sites (right and left lateral condyles, left medial condyle), with the most pronounced differences occurring in athletes who had been treadmill running for 12+ months rather than those with <12 months of exposure. The findings suggest that long-term, high-intensity treadmill running may be associated with cartilage thinning, with a weak negative correlation between duration of treadmill running and cartilage thickness at lateral condyle sites.

THE IMPACT OF WEIGHT-BEARING EXERCISE, NON-WEIGHT-BEARING EXERCISE, AND CARDIOVASCULAR STRESS ON BIOCHEMICAL MARKERS OF CARTILAGE TURNOVER IN PATIENTS WITH MILD TO MODERATE KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS - A SEQUENTIAL, CROSS-OVER, CLINICAL STUDY.

DOI: 10.1177/19476035241258170 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:26:23
This study investigated how different types of exercise acutely affect blood markers of cartilage breakdown and repair in 40 patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis. Using a crossover design, participants completed moderate-to-high intensity running, cycling, and adrenaline infusion sessions on separate days, with blood samples collected before, during, and up to 6 time points after each intervention to measure various cartilage turnover biomarkers. The results showed that both cycling and running generally decreased markers of cartilage degradation (particularly C2M and ARGS) while increasing markers of cartilage formation (PRO-C2), suggesting a favorable acute response rather than harmful effects on cartilage. The findings indicate that exercise does not appear to cause detrimental cartilage breakdown in people with knee osteoarthritis, and may actually promote beneficial changes in cartilage metabolism.

GOUT ARTHRITIS OF THE ANKLE SUCCESSFULLY TREATED WITH ARTHROSCOPIC DEBRIDEMENT: A CASE REPORT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2024.110066 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:26:17
This case report describes the successful arthroscopic treatment of ankle gout arthritis in a 32-year-old male who presented with chronic ankle pain, swelling, and walking difficulties initially suspected to be an anterior talofibular ligament injury based on MRI findings. The patient underwent arthroscopic debridement after intraoperative discovery of uric acid crystal deposits confirmed the diagnosis of gout arthritis rather than ligament rupture. Following surgical removal of the monosodium urate crystals, the patient experienced rapid improvement within one week, including minimal pain, better range of motion, reduced swelling, and restored walking ability with minimal assistance. The authors emphasize that successful arthroscopic debridement of ankle gout requires careful patient selection, thorough preoperative planning, complete crystal removal, and comprehensive postoperative care due to the technical challenges posed by tophi, inflammation, and risk of cartilage damage.

CHARACTERIZING AND MODELING OVINE HIDE AND COSTAL CARTILAGE FOR USE IN MODELING HIGH-RATE NON-PENETRATING BLUNT IMPACT.

DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usae181 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:26:11
This study aimed to characterize the mechanical properties of ovine (sheep) hide and costal cartilage tissues to improve computer models of high-rate blunt chest impacts, such as those occurring with protective equipment. The researchers conducted tensile and compressive tests on tissue samples from sheep at high strain rates (150/s) and then validated computational models using LS-DYNA software with hyperelastic material models. Key findings showed that costal cartilage had mean failure strains of 0.094 in tension and -0.176 in compression, with an order-of-magnitude difference in stress between these loading conditions, while hide demonstrated a mean failure strain of 0.236. The study successfully established material properties and validated computational models for both tissues, providing essential data for future computer simulations of thoracic blunt impact injuries, though the authors noted that incorporating strain rate sensitivity would further improve the models.

EFFECT OF OLDER AGE AND/OR ACL INJURY ON THE DOSE-RESPONSE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AMBULATORY LOAD MAGNITUDE AND IMMEDIATE LOAD-INDUCED CHANGE IN SERUM CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jshs.2024.100993 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:26:05
This study investigated how age and previous ACL injury affect cartilage stress responses by measuring serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (sCOMP) levels before and after walking exercise. The researchers tested 85 participants across four groups (young/older adults, with/without ACL injury history) who completed 30-minute treadmill sessions at different body weight loads (80%, 100%, 120%) while measuring blood sCOMP concentrations.

The key findings showed that older adults had 21% higher baseline sCOMP levels but 19% smaller increases after exercise compared to younger participants, while previous ACL injury had no significant effect on either measure. Importantly, the dose-response relationship between walking load intensity and sCOMP changes remained consistent across all age groups, ACL injury status, and sex, with higher loads producing greater sCOMP responses regardless of these factors.

These results suggest that while aging affects baseline cartilage metabolism and stress responsiveness, the fundamental relationship between mechanical loading and immediate cartilage biomarker responses is preserved across different populations.

INFLUENCE OF CARTILAGE DEFECTS AND A COLLAGEN GEL ON INTEGRITY OF CORRESPONDING INTACT CARTILAGE: A BIOMECHANICAL IN-VITRO STUDY.

DOI: 10.1007/s00402-024-05530-z · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:25:57
This study investigated how focal cartilage defects and a collagen-based repair material (Chondrofiller) affect damage to opposing healthy cartilage during joint loading. The researchers used 18 porcine cartilage samples tested under cyclic loading on a friction testing device, comparing damage across different surface pairs (cartilage-vs-cartilage, cartilage-vs-bone, cartilage-vs-defect, and cartilage-vs-defect with biomaterial) over 1 and 6-hour periods, with damage assessed using histological scoring. The results showed that cartilage rubbing against exposed bone caused the most severe damage (score 3.5), while cartilage defects caused moderate damage (scores 2.5-2.67), and importantly, the collagen biomaterial did not reduce this damage to the opposing cartilage. The findings suggest that cartilage repair biomaterials must be mechanically stable from the outset or joint loading should be restricted until the repair material can adequately fill and stabilize the defect.

COMPARISON OF ANTI-GRAVITY TREADMILL TRAINING AND TRADITIONAL TREADMILL TRAINING IN PATIENTS WITH MODERATE TO SEVERE KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL.

DOI: 10.1007/s11845-024-03836-w · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:25:49
This randomized controlled trial compared anti-gravity treadmill training to traditional treadmill training in 30 women with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis over 8 weeks. The researchers used a three-group design where all participants received standard physical therapy (heat, electrical stimulation, ultrasound), with additional anti-gravity treadmill training (Group 1), traditional treadmill training (Group 2), or control treatment only (Group 3), measuring pain, function, walking capacity, and cartilage thickness. Anti-gravity treadmill training significantly improved pain scores, overall function, and walking distance compared to baseline, while traditional treadmill training resulted in reduced femoral cartilage thickness. The findings suggest anti-gravity treadmill training may be a safer and more effective aerobic exercise option for patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis, potentially avoiding the cartilage damage observed with traditional treadmill use.

GENOMIC EFFECTS OF BIOMECHANICAL LOADING IN ADOLESCENT HUMAN GROWTH PLATE CARTILAGE: A PILOT STUDY.

DOI: 10.1177/19476035241302954 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:25:43
This pilot study investigated how mechanical forces affect gene expression in human growth plate cartilage, which has never been studied before at the genomic level. The researchers obtained rare growth plate tissue samples from three children undergoing surgical procedures and subjected them to controlled mechanical loading (0.4 N force at 0.77 Hz for 30 seconds) using a specialized microloading device, followed by RNA sequencing after 24 hours of culture. The mechanical loading significantly altered six key cellular pathways - upregulating Notch, oxytocin, and tight junction signaling while downregulating lysosome, sphingolipid metabolism, and PPAR pathways, with 15 specific genes consistently affected across all three patients. This represents the first transcriptomic analysis of mechanically-loaded human growth plate cartilage and provides potential genetic targets for understanding normal bone growth and growth disorders.

NA

DOI: 10.1080/27697061.2024.2438894 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:25:38
This randomized, placebo-controlled study evaluated whether SN13108F (AFLAPIN®), a standardized Boswellia gum resin extract, could improve cartilage structure and reduce symptoms in knee osteoarthritis patients. Eighty adults with moderate knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence grades II-III) received either 100 mg/day of SN13108F or placebo for 180 days, with outcomes measured using clinical assessments, MRI imaging, and biochemical markers. Compared to placebo, SN13108F significantly reduced pain scores, improved functional tests (walking and stair climbing), and increased cartilage volume, thickness, and joint space width on MRI. The supplement also reduced inflammatory markers and cartilage degradation biomarkers in blood and urine, with no safety concerns observed, suggesting potential benefits for cartilage preservation in osteoarthritis.

TIBIOFEMORAL CARTILAGE STRAIN AND RECOVERY FOLLOWING A 3-MILE RUN MEASURED USING DEEP LEARNING SEGMENTATION OF BONE AND CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ocarto.2024.100556 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:25:31
This study investigated how knee cartilage deforms during exercise and recovers afterward by measuring cartilage thickness before and after a 3-mile run, plus the following day. The researchers used advanced MRI imaging combined with deep learning artificial intelligence models to automatically measure cartilage thickness in eight healthy male participants at these three time points. The 3-mile run caused significant cartilage compression, with tibial cartilage compressing by 5.4% and femoral cartilage by 2.3% immediately after exercise. However, both cartilage regions fully recovered to within 1% of their original thickness by the next morning, demonstrating the knee's remarkable ability to bounce back from exercise-induced deformation.

EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF BOSWELLIA SERRATA AND APIUM GRAVEOLENS L. EXTRACT AGAINST KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS AND CARTILAGE DEGENERATION: A RANDOMIZED, DOUBLE-BLIND, MULTICENTER, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED CLINICAL TRIAL.

DOI: 10.1007/s11095-025-03818-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:25:25
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the safety and efficacy of a nutraceutical combination containing Boswellia serrata (300mg) and celery seed extract (250mg) for treating knee osteoarthritis in 62 participants over 90 days. Researchers assessed clinical outcomes using standard measures (WOMAC, VAS, KOOS scores, 6-minute walk test) and analyzed blood and urine biomarkers related to inflammation and cartilage metabolism. The nutraceutical group showed significant improvements in pain, stiffness, and swelling compared to placebo, along with reduced inflammatory markers (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α) and cartilage breakdown markers (CTX-II, MMP-3), while demonstrating increased collagen synthesis markers indicating cartilage regeneration. The treatment was well-tolerated with no adverse effects, suggesting this herbal combination may be a safe alternative for managing osteoarthritis symptoms and supporting cartilage health.

OPTICAL REDOX IMAGING PREDICTS POST-LOADING CARTILAGE MITOCHONDRIAL MEMBRANE POTENTIAL.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-025-03784-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:25:18
This study aimed to determine whether dye-free optical redox imaging (ORI) can predict mitochondrial membrane potential changes in cartilage following mechanical loading, potentially offering a clinically translatable alternative to fluorescent dye methods. The researchers subjected porcine cartilage strips to tensile loading at two different strain rates and measured ORI metrics before, immediately after, and 30 minutes post-loading, then compared these to mitochondrial membrane potential measured with fluorescent dye using statistical modeling. The key finding was that ORI metrics successfully predicted mitochondrial membrane potential with high accuracy (average difference of only 7.07% between predicted and actual values), with loading rate being the most significant factor affecting the measurements. This suggests that ORI could be developed as a clinical tool for assessing cartilage health and redox balance without requiring potentially harmful fluorescent dyes.

ACUTE EFFECT OF IMPACT AND RESISTANCE EXERCISE ON WNT SIGNALING MODULATORS, BONE AND CARTILAGE METABOLISM.

DOI: 10.1093/jbmr/zjaf128 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:25:12
This study investigated how single sessions of impact exercise (jumping/hopping) and resistance exercise affect bone and cartilage metabolism through WNT signaling pathways in 26 healthy young men. Participants completed 120 maximum-effort jumps or high-load lower limb lifts in separate trials, with blood samples analyzed before, immediately after, and 24 hours post-exercise for markers of bone turnover and cartilage metabolism. Impact exercise specifically increased bone formation markers (PINP) and sclerostin levels, while resistance exercise increased a cartilage turnover marker (COMP) but had no effect on bone markers. Both exercise types temporarily increased DKK1 (a WNT signaling inhibitor), suggesting that different loading patterns may trigger distinct adaptive responses in bone versus cartilage tissues.

IMMEDIATE REDUCTIONS IN COMPRESSIVE AND SHEAR FORCES IN THE KNEE FROM GAIT RETRAINING ARE ASSOCIATED WITH SLOWED CARTILAGE DEGENERATION AFTER 1 YEAR IN MEDIAL KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A RETROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL COHORT STUDY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2025.12.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:25:06
This study investigated which immediate changes in knee loading from gait modification training predict improvements in cartilage health after one year in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis. Twenty-five participants underwent personalized gait retraining to reduce their peak knee adduction moment by modifying foot positioning, with researchers using musculoskeletal modeling to measure knee forces and MRI scans to assess cartilage quality at baseline and one year. The results showed that immediate reductions in specific knee forces—particularly vertical compression and front-to-back shear forces in the medial compartment during late stance—were strongly associated with improved cartilage microstructure after one year of training. The findings suggest that targeting these direct knee contact forces, rather than just knee moments (currently used as treatment targets), may be more effective for developing interventions to slow cartilage degeneration in knee osteoarthritis.

SUSTAINED STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL DEFICITS IN THE PORCINE KNEE SIX MONTHS FOLLOWING MENISCUS DESTABILIZATION.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.70124 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:25:00
This study aimed to evaluate a porcine knee osteoarthritis model using an enhanced destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM+) procedure, where researchers surgically removed a 5mm portion of the meniscus attachment. The researchers assessed joint changes at 6 weeks and 6 months using multiple techniques including cartilage mechanical testing, bone analysis, tissue examination, and gait analysis. The results showed that early changes were localized to areas with altered mechanical loading, but by 6 months the damage became more widespread, featuring cartilage softening, joint inflammation, and altered walking patterns that resembled chronic human osteoarthritis. The authors conclude this porcine model successfully mimics key aspects of human osteoarthritis and could serve as a valuable platform for testing new treatments and regenerative therapies.

CARTILAGE ORGANOIDS BRIDGING BENCH TO BEDSIDE: A STEROID-FREE STRATEGY FOR EARLY OSTEOARTHRITIS REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2025.102688 · Summary generated: 2026-02-11 08:24:54
This study aimed to develop a steroid-free treatment for early osteoarthritis using sinomenine (a natural anti-inflammatory compound) combined with cartilage organoids derived from bone marrow stem cells. The researchers tested sinomenine-treated organoids in laboratory studies and rat models, then conducted a 24-month clinical trial comparing intra-articular sinomenine injections to corticosteroid injections in patients with early knee osteoarthritis. Laboratory results showed that sinomenine-enhanced organoids reduced inflammation, promoted cartilage formation, and achieved superior tissue repair in rat cartilage defects compared to controls. In the clinical trial, sinomenine injections provided comparable pain relief and functional improvement to corticosteroids across multiple outcome measures, but importantly prevented the cartilage deterioration that occurred with repeated steroid use.

THE EFFECT OF IMPACT LOADING ON RABBIT KNEE JOINTS.

DOI: 10.3109/17453677708988764 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:14:38
This study investigated how repetitive impact loading affects knee joint cartilage and bone in rabbits. Eighteen mature male rabbits received repeated impact loads (4 kp, slightly above body weight) to one knee joint for 1-6 weeks, with mechanical testing performed on subchondral bone cores from the impacted tibiae. The researchers found that subchondral bone became progressively more deformable under constant force, while cartilage degeneration occurred simultaneously with these bone changes. The findings suggest cartilage damage may result from both the direct harmful effects of repeated mechanical compression and the reduced structural support from weakened underlying subchondral bone.

CHANGES IN THE DEFORMATIONAL BEHAVIOR OF HUMAN HIP CARTILAGE WITH AGE.

DOI: 10.1115/1.3149576 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:14:32
This study investigated how age affects the mechanical behavior of cartilage in the human hip joint by comparing cartilage deformation under two different loading conditions. The researchers measured cartilage deformation when the femoral head was loaded within its natural hip socket (acetabulum) versus when cartilage was tested in isolation using a small indentation device. The key finding was that aging had opposite effects depending on the testing method: older cartilage showed significantly greater deformation when tested in the intact joint, but showed no significant age-related changes when tested with the indentor alone. The authors suggest this age-related increase in deformation within the intact joint is likely due to increased fluid loss from the cartilage under load, rather than changes in the cartilage's elastic properties.

CONGENITAL DISLOCATION OF THE HIP: A BIOMECHANICAL STUDY IN AUTOPSY SPECIMENS.

DOI: 10.1097/01241398-198309000-00014 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:14:21
This biomechanical study investigated how mechanical forces contribute to congenital hip dislocation using autopsy specimens. The researchers applied controlled loading forces to infant hip joints at different flexion angles (45° and 135°) for 3-hour periods, then examined the resulting deformations using specialized sectioning techniques. Loading at 45° flexion produced hip deformations and dislocations similar to those seen in clinical cases of congenital hip dislocation, while loading at 135° (simulating breech position) also caused dislocation but with less cartilage deformation. The study demonstrates that mechanical forces alone can create hip instability patterns resembling congenital dislocation, with persistent joint laxity and incomplete recovery even after forces are removed.

CONTACT STUDY OF THE HIP JOINT. LOAD-DEFORMATION PATTERN, CONTACT AREA AND CONTACT PRESSURE.

DOI: 10.1007/BF00451313 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:14:15
This study investigated how the human hip joint responds to compressive loading by examining load-deformation patterns, contact area, and contact pressure distribution. The researchers used their own experimental method to analyze weight-bearing function and measure how articular cartilage and subchondral bone deformed under increasing loads. The key findings showed that joint congruity improved with higher loads, but both contact area and pressure distribution were asymmetrical and non-concentric, varying with load magnitude. The authors suggest these loading patterns may be related to early cartilage degeneration in the hip joint.

FUNDAMENTALS OF FLUID TRANSPORT THROUGH CARTILAGE IN COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1007/BF02371448 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:14:10
This study investigated how fluid flows through articular cartilage under different compression scenarios to understand the tissue's viscoelastic behavior. The researchers analyzed four loading configurations: confined compression, unconfined compression, and two types of parabolic surface loading that simulate joint movement patterns. The study found that cartilage's compressive behavior is primarily controlled by the balance between fluid drag forces and the stiffness of the solid matrix, with different loading patterns producing distinct fluid flow mechanisms. These findings provide fundamental insights into how cartilage deforms and recovers during joint loading, which has important implications for understanding cartilage function and designing treatment strategies.

INFLUENCES OF JOINT IMMOBILIZATION AND RUNNING EXERCISE ON ARTICULAR CARTILAGE SURFACES OF YOUNG RABBITS. A SEMIQUANTITATIVE STEREOMICROSCOPIC AND SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPIC STUDY.

DOI: 10.1159/000145984 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:14:05
This study investigated how joint immobilization and running exercise affect articular cartilage surfaces in young rabbits over 8 weeks. Researchers used stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy to examine cartilage surface changes on the patella and lateral tibial condyle, comparing immobilized joints, exercised joints (treadmill running 150-300m twice daily, 5 times/week), and controls. Joint immobilization caused rapid and severe surface deterioration within just one week, including roughening, leafy appearance, and superficial splits that persisted throughout the study period. In contrast, moderate running exercise produced only minor, temporary increases in surface striations compared to controls, suggesting that controlled exercise is much less harmful to cartilage than immobilization.

EXPERIMENTAL DETERMINATION OF THE LINEAR BIPHASIC CONSTITUTIVE COEFFICIENTS OF HUMAN FETAL PROXIMAL FEMORAL CHONDROEPIPHYSIS.

DOI: 10.1016/0021-9290(86)90165-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:13:59
This study aimed to determine the mechanical properties of cartilage from the hip joint region (chondroepiphysis) in human fetuses to better understand load transmission in young children's hips. The researchers tested cylindrical samples from stillborn fetal femoral heads using compression testing and analyzed the results using a mathematical model (KLM biphasic model) to calculate three key material properties: permeability, stiffness (equilibrium modulus), and Poisson ratio.

The fetal cartilage showed similar permeability (2.51 × 10⁻¹⁵ m⁴ Ns⁻¹) and stiffness (0.699 MPa) values to adult cartilage, with an inverse relationship between these properties. However, the mathematical model only loosely fit the experimental data, particularly underestimating the fluid flow response during loading, suggesting that fetal cartilage behavior may be more complex than current models predict.

THE "INSTANTANEOUS" DEFORMATION OF CARTILAGE: EFFECTS OF COLLAGEN FIBER ORIENTATION AND OSMOTIC STRESS.

DOI: 10.3233/bir-1986-23402 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:13:52
This study aimed to distinguish between immediate ("instantaneous") and time-dependent (creep) deformation of cartilage under compression, and to investigate the directional (anisotropic) mechanical behavior of cartilage during physiological loading conditions. The researchers developed specialized equipment to measure surface area changes in human cartilage samples from femoral heads and condyles during unconfined compression testing, examining full and partial thickness specimens under various osmotic conditions and proteoglycan concentrations.

The key finding was that cartilage exhibits strongly anisotropic instantaneous deformation in all zones, with consistently smaller deformation along the collagen fiber direction (indicated by Indian-ink prick patterns) compared to perpendicular directions, particularly in the superficial zone. The results demonstrate that the collagen network primarily controls instantaneous deformation behavior, while proteoglycans play an indirect role by modulating collagen network stiffness through osmotic pressure effects.

INDENTATION STIFFNESS OF YOUNG CANINE KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE--INFLUENCE OF STRENUOUS JOINT LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/0021-9290(90)90381-c · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:13:46
This study investigated how strenuous physical training affects the mechanical properties of knee cartilage in young dogs. Researchers subjected 6 young beagles to intensive treadmill running (20 km/day for 15 weeks) and compared their cartilage to 9 age-matched controls using indentation testing to measure stiffness and other mechanical properties. The results showed that while cartilage thickness remained unchanged, strenuous training increased stiffness by 13.3% in the lateral tibial plateau but had no beneficial effect (or even decreased stiffness) in the femoral condyles. These findings suggest that unlike moderate exercise, very intense training does not improve cartilage properties in young animals and may have location-specific effects on joint cartilage.

PATHOLOGIC FINDINGS AND PATHOGENESIS OF RACETRACK INJURIES.

DOI: 10.1016/s0749-0739(17)30555-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:13:40
This study examined the pathological characteristics and underlying mechanisms of musculoskeletal injuries in racing horses. The research analyzed injury patterns and their relationship to biomechanical forces during racing activities across different types of racehorses. The study found that chronic biomechanically-induced lesions are far more common and economically significant than acute traumatic injuries, occurring at predictable anatomical sites that reflect the specific racing demands placed on different horse breeds. Key findings indicate that while bone tissue can often heal with rest or reduced training, articular cartilage, tendons, and ligaments have limited capacity for repair and restoration of normal function.

FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSES OF REPAIRED ARTICULAR SURFACES.

DOI: 10.1243/PIME_PROC_1991_205_286_02 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:13:35
This study aimed to understand how repaired cartilage tissue affects the mechanical behavior of joint surfaces under compression compared to normal cartilage. The researchers used finite element modeling to simulate compression loading on cartilage surfaces, systematically varying three key material properties of the repair tissue: stiffness (aggregate modulus), fluid permeability, and Poisson's ratio. The results showed that softer repair tissue increased downward deformation and reduced sideways expansion, while more permeable repair tissue compressed more easily and reached equilibrium faster due to enhanced fluid flow. The findings demonstrate that repair tissue significantly alters joint surface mechanics, with the specific changes depending on which material properties differ from normal cartilage.

A NEW TECHNIQUE FOR MEASURING CONTACT AREAS IN HUMAN JOINTS--THE '3S TECHNIQUE'.

DOI: 10.1243/PIME_PROC_1991_205_270_02 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:13:29
This study aimed to develop a simple and accurate method for measuring contact areas in human joints to better estimate joint stresses, addressing limitations of existing techniques that overestimate contact areas due to cartilage creep deformation.

The researchers developed the "3S technique" using a silicone oil-carbon black powder suspension applied to joint surfaces, which gets squeezed out of contact areas under load, leaving clear photographic evidence of true contact zones. The method was validated against other accurate techniques and tested on human joints under physiological conditions.

The 3S technique proved to be simple, quick, and accurate for measuring joint contact areas, with the advantage of leaving no permanent staining so tests can be repeated on the same joint under different loads and angles. The authors demonstrated its utility by measuring contact area changes in ankle joints during normal walking, providing data that can be used to calculate how contact stresses vary throughout the gait cycle.

IS CLASSICAL CONSOLIDATION THEORY APPLICABLE TO ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFORMATION?

DOI: 10.1016/0268-0033(91)90048-U · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:13:23
This study investigated whether classical consolidation theory (used in soil mechanics) can explain how articular cartilage deforms over time under static loading. The researchers developed a novel experimental technique to simultaneously measure internal pressure within the cartilage matrix and tissue deformation during one-dimensional compression - the first direct measurement of internal stress in loaded cartilage. The results demonstrated that when cartilage is compressed, the applied load is initially shared between water, proteoglycans, and collagen, with maximum internal pressure developing as water begins to be squeezed out of the tissue. Over time, this internal pressure decreases as more water is expelled, causing a progressive transfer of load from the water to the solid matrix components (collagen and proteoglycans), with consolidation complete when internal pressure reaches zero and the solid components bear the full applied load.

THE DRAMATIC INFLUENCE OF LOADING VELOCITY ON THE COMPRESSIVE RESPONSE OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.3109/03008209209006997 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:13:17
This study investigated how loading speed affects the mechanical stiffness of articular cartilage during compression. The researchers performed compression tests on cartilage samples (both isolated cartilage and cartilage-on-bone) across a wide range of strain rates from very slow (10⁻⁵ sec⁻¹) to impact velocities (10³ sec⁻¹). The results showed that cartilage stiffness increases progressively with loading velocity at low and medium strain rates, then reaches a maximum plateau at high strain rates. The findings suggest two distinct deformation mechanisms: slow loading produces consolidation-dependent stiffness (related to fluid flow), while rapid loading creates elastic deformation behavior, which has important implications for how joint forces are transmitted to underlying bone.

AN ANALYSIS OF THE SQUEEZE-FILM LUBRICATION MECHANISM FOR ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/0021-9290(92)90024-u · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:13:10
This study aimed to mathematically analyze how articular cartilage and synovial fluid work together during squeeze-film lubrication when joints experience loading. The researchers developed a theoretical model treating cartilage as a porous, fluid-filled material and synovial fluid as a thin viscous layer, then used asymptotic analysis to derive equations describing their mechanical behavior under step loading conditions.

The analysis revealed several key findings about joint lubrication: cartilage deformation increases the load-bearing contact area, cartilage flexibility slows down fluid movement and extends lubrication time to 1-10 seconds, and synovial fluid flows from high-pressure central regions into the cartilage before being expelled at the periphery. Notably, the model predicted that tensile hoop stresses develop at the cartilage surface even under compressive loading, which results from radial fluid flow within the cartilage tissue.

SERUM KERATAN SULFATE LEVELS IN MARATHON RUNNERS.

DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1021279 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:13:03
This study investigated whether intense physical activity affects cartilage breakdown in trained athletes by measuring serum keratan sulfate (KS) levels in 15 male marathon runners. The researchers used a non-invasive blood test (ELISA) to measure KS—a marker of cartilage breakdown—at three time points: before the marathon, immediately after, and 48 hours post-race. The results showed no significant changes in serum KS levels across the three measurements, and no correlations between KS levels and runner characteristics (age, weight, height) or performance. The findings suggest that marathon running does not increase cartilage breakdown in well-trained athletes, at least in the short term.

EFFECTS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON SOME COMPONENTS OF THE SKELETAL SYSTEM.

DOI: 10.2165/00007256-199213060-00003 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:12:57
This review examines how physical activity affects skeletal system components and their ability to withstand the high-intensity forces imposed by sporting activities. The authors analyzed existing literature on the biomechanical properties of ligaments, tendons, and bone, particularly focusing on how these tissues respond to different loading rates and training modalities. Key findings indicate that while the skeletal system's capacity to adapt to stress through training remains controversial, the response depends on exercise modality, intensity, and duration, as well as individual genetic factors and hormonal status. The authors emphasize that in vitro studies of individual tissues may not accurately reflect real-world performance, as the skeletal system components function as an integrated unit during sports activities.

SUBCHONDRAL DAMAGE AFTER ACUTE TRANSARTICULAR LOADING: AN IN VITRO MODEL OF JOINT INJURY.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100100603 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:12:51
This study investigated how acute high-force loading damages joint structures using an in vitro model with intact canine paw joints. The researchers applied various loads to 48 joints and analyzed the resulting damage using gross inspection, scanning electron microscopy, and histological examination, while measuring contact pressures with pressure-sensitive film. The study found that intraarticular fractures occurred at an average force of 2.4 kN with surface pressures ≥40 MPa, but importantly, scanning electron microscopy revealed extensive hidden damage to the calcified cartilage zone and subchondral bone that extended far beyond what was visible during gross inspection. Even in joints that didn't show obvious fractures, microscopic cracks in the calcified cartilage zone were commonly found, suggesting that joint failure begins in this transitional tissue layer and may contribute to post-traumatic osteoarthritis development even when gross fractures aren't apparent.

A PHYSICAL MODEL FOR THE TIME-DEPENDENT DEFORMATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.3109/03008209309016831 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:12:41
This study aimed to develop a physical model using water-saturated sponge material to simulate the time-dependent mechanical behavior of articular cartilage under compression. The researchers created a controllable system with variable permeability that allowed one-dimensional deformation testing under both static and dynamic loading while simultaneously measuring applied stress, pore pressure, and strain. The results showed that cartilage exhibits two distinct load-bearing mechanisms depending on loading rate: under slow/static loading, stress is shared between the fluid (water) and solid matrix components, while under high-rate loading, the water becomes immobilized and bears most of the applied stress as the tissue behaves as a unified structure. These findings support describing cartilage as a poro-visco-hyperelastic material, providing insights into how joint cartilage responds differently to various loading conditions encountered during daily activities.

STRUCTURAL AND IN VIVO MECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF CANINE PATELLAR CARTILAGE: A CLOSED CHONDROMALACIA PATELLAE MODEL.

DOI: 10.3109/08941939309141602 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:12:35
This study investigated how cartilage structure changes relate to mechanical properties in a canine model of early cartilage degeneration (chondromalacia patellae). Researchers implanted metallic devices in the patellofemoral groove of 10 dogs for 3 or 6 months and used custom indentation testing to measure how the patellar cartilage responded to compression loading in vivo, while also analyzing tissue structure through histology. The main findings showed that cartilage became progressively more compliant over time, with deformation increasing from 17% at 3 months to 37% at 6 months, which corresponded with progressive loss of proteoglycans in the cartilage matrix detected by histological staining. Importantly, these structural and mechanical changes occurred without visible surface damage, demonstrating that significant cartilage deterioration can be quantified before obvious degeneration becomes apparent.

EXPERIMENTAL DETERMINATION OF THE SUBCHONDRAL STRESS-REDUCING ROLE OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER STATIC AND DYNAMIC COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/S0268-0033(93)90040-O · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:12:28
This study aimed to quantify how effectively articular cartilage reduces stress transmission to the underlying subchondral bone under different loading conditions. The researchers used an innovative experimental setup where cartilage was removed from bone and bonded to a clear photoelastic material, allowing direct measurement of shear stresses beneath the cartilage during both static and impact loading. The results showed that cartilage provides significant protection to subchondral structures under both loading types, but offers greater stress reduction under static loads compared to dynamic loads, particularly near the cartilage-bone interface. These findings reflect the different ways cartilage deforms at slow versus fast loading rates, highlighting its complex biomechanical properties as a protective tissue.

IMMUNOLOCALIZATION OF SELECTED CYTOKINES AND PROTEASES IN CANINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AFTER TRANSARTICULAR LOADING.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100110302 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:12:22
This study investigated the temporal changes in inflammatory molecules and proteases in cartilage following joint trauma to understand early osteoarthritis development. Researchers applied controlled impact loading to canine patellae and examined the cartilage at 2, 12, 24, and 52 weeks using immunohistochemistry to detect IL-1β, TNF-α, MMP-3, fibronectin, and altered proteoglycans. The key finding was that inflammatory cytokines and proteases were only elevated at 2 weeks post-injury, showing strong staining around cartilage cracks in the superficial zones, but were absent at all later time points. By 52 weeks, the cartilage showed signs of healing with restoration of proteoglycan content, suggesting that this trauma model produced only transient inflammatory responses rather than progressive osteoarthritis.

SCANNING ELECTRON-MICROSCOPIC AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE-IMAGING STUDIES OF INJURIES TO THE PATELLOFEMORAL JOINT AFTER ACUTE TRANSARTICULAR LOADING.

DOI: 10.2106/00004623-199305000-00010 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:12:16
This study aimed to examine the immediate and long-term effects of acute joint trauma on cartilage and bone using a standardized canine model where 2000 Newtons of force was applied across the patellofemoral joint. The researchers used scanning electron microscopy to assess immediate damage, histological analysis at multiple time points (day 0, 2 weeks, 1 year), and sequential MRI imaging over 52 weeks to track changes. Immediately after loading, extensive fractures occurred through the calcified cartilage and subchondral bone with step-off displacement, while the articular cartilage surface appeared grossly normal; at 2 weeks, cartilage clefts and proteoglycan loss became evident, and MRI showed soft tissue swelling, joint effusion, and decreased bone marrow signal. By one year, subchondral fractures had healed, proteoglycan was restored, and MRI findings normalized, though some superficial cartilage fissures persisted, demonstrating that joints have significant capacity for repair following acute trauma.

ROLE OF ACUTE TRAUMA IN DEVELOPMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1007/BF01984065 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:12:08
This study aimed to develop and compare two canine models of acute joint trauma to investigate how sudden cartilage damage leads to osteoarthritis development. The researchers created both a closed joint model (maintaining normal joint biology) and an open joint model (allowing direct visualization and control of impact parameters), then analyzed cartilage changes using histochemical methods at 2 weeks and 3 months post-injury. Both models produced similar initial damage patterns including surface cracks and fractures in the calcified cartilage zone, followed by proteoglycan loss, inflammatory marker expression (TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, stromelysin), and cartilage cell cloning by 3 months. These models will help test whether there's a damage threshold that triggers progressive osteoarthritis and whether cracks in calcified cartilage contribute to disease progression through abnormal bone formation.

INDENTATION ANALYSIS OF BIPHASIC ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: NONLINEAR PHENOMENA UNDER FINITE DEFORMATION.

DOI: 10.1115/1.2895700 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:12:02
This study aimed to investigate the nonlinear mechanical behavior of articular cartilage under indentation testing at physiologically relevant loading rates, comparing finite deformation effects to traditional linear models. The researchers used a sophisticated two-phase continuum model based on mixture theory and finite element analysis to simulate stress relaxation and creep tests with both porous and impermeable indenters under different compression rates. The finite deformation model showed significantly different responses compared to linear models, particularly under fast compression or with impermeable indenters, exhibiting higher peak-to-equilibrium force ratios, faster early relaxation, slower creep rates, and larger pressure distributions near the surface. These findings suggest that nonlinear finite deformation effects are important for accurately characterizing cartilage mechanical behavior, especially under rapid loading conditions that may occur during joint motion.

CHONDROCYTE CELLS RESPOND MECHANICALLY TO COMPRESSIVE LOADS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100120303 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:11:56
This study investigated how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) change shape when subjected to mechanical compression to better understand cellular responses to loading. The researchers embedded isolated rat chondrocytes in agarose gel and applied compressive strains of 5%, 10%, and 15%, recording cell shape changes over 15 minutes and using finite-element modeling to estimate mechanical properties.

All chondrocytes decreased in cross-sectional area under compression, with mechanical properties similar to the surrounding gel (elasticity ~4.0 kPa, Poisson's ratio 0.4), and contributed significant viscoelastic behavior to the composite material. Importantly, the observed cell volume decrease was greater than what would be expected from passive mechanical compression alone, suggesting that chondrocytes actively alter their internal composition in response to mechanical loading rather than simply deforming passively.

COMPLEX NATURE OF STRESS INSIDE LOADED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/0268-0033(94)90014-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:11:16
This study aimed to understand the complex stress mechanisms that develop within articular cartilage during mechanical loading, particularly focusing on how water movement and chemical changes affect cartilage behavior. The researchers used enzymatic modification (hyaluronidase digestion) to alter the normal osmotic conditions of cartilage matrix and measured hydrostatic pore pressure changes to examine how the tissue's chemistry influences its consolidation properties.

The study identified three distinct types of stress that occur during cartilage deformation: swelling stress in the proteoglycan/collagen framework during early loading, hydrostatic excess pore pressure in the fluid component, and effective stress that develops after maximum pore pressure is reached. The findings revealed that cartilage consolidation is controlled by achieving a minimum level of swelling stiffness in the solid matrix, and that proteoglycan content critically influences both osmotic pressure and tissue permeability, which are essential for cartilage's ability to distribute stress effectively over the underlying bone.

SOFTENING OF THE LATERAL CONDYLE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN THE CANINE KNEE JOINT AFTER LONG DISTANCE (UP TO 40 KM/DAY) RUNNING TRAINING LASTING ONE YEAR.

DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1021056 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:11:08
This study investigated how long-distance running training affects the mechanical properties of knee cartilage in young dogs. Ten dogs underwent gradually increased treadmill exercise up to 40 km/day for one year, while 10 control dogs remained sedentary; researchers then measured cartilage stiffness using indentation testing and analyzed cartilage composition using microscopic techniques. The key finding was that cartilage in the lateral (outer) compartments of both the femur and tibia became significantly softer (12-14% decrease in stiffness) and deformed more easily (16% increase in deformation rate) in the running dogs, while the medial (inner) compartments were unaffected. Although no visible cartilage damage occurred, the researchers suggest this softening may eventually compromise the cartilage's ability to maintain its normal structure and function over time.

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CANINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE ARE SIGNIFICANTLY ALTERED FOLLOWING TRANSECTION OF THE ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100120402 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:10:57
This study investigated how cutting the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in greyhound dogs affects the mechanical properties of knee cartilage. The researchers measured cartilage's ability to withstand compression, tension, and shear forces, as well as its swelling behavior and water content at multiple joint sites at two time points after ACL transection. Twelve weeks after surgery, cartilage showed severe mechanical deterioration with dramatically reduced stiffness in compression (24% of normal), tension (64% of normal), and shear (24% of normal), along with increased water permeability (48% higher) and water content (9% higher). These findings demonstrate that ACL injury leads to widespread cartilage degeneration due to altered joint loading, compromising the tissue's ability to support loads and resist deformation, which may contribute to progressive osteoarthritis.

THE EFFECTS OF MANDIBULAR HYPOFUNCTION ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MANDIBULAR DISC IN THE RABBIT.

DOI: 10.1016/0003-9969(94)90003-5 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:10:51
This study investigated how reduced jaw function affects the development of the mandibular disc (temporomandibular joint disc) in growing rabbits. Researchers extracted incisor teeth from 5-week-old rabbits to create jaw hypofunction, then measured cell division rates in different regions of the disc at 12 weeks using vincristine sulfate injection and compared results to control rabbits with intact teeth. The key finding was that tooth removal significantly reduced cell proliferation in the anterior band of the disc, while the intermediate and posterior regions were unaffected, along with associated reductions in bone mass and jaw deformities. The authors conclude that altered muscle activity and joint loading from reduced jaw function specifically impairs development of the anterior disc region, likely due to changes in the lateral pterygoid muscle that attaches to this area.

MECHANICAL COMPRESSION MODULATES MATRIX BIOSYNTHESIS IN CHONDROCYTE/AGAROSE CULTURE.

DOI: 10.1242/jcs.108.4.1497 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:10:45
This study investigated how mechanical compression affects cartilage cell (chondrocyte) activity when cultured in agarose gel, using radioactive markers to measure proteoglycan and protein synthesis. Researchers applied both static compression (up to 50% strain) and dynamic compression (3% strain at 0.01-1.0 Hz) to chondrocyte/agarose constructs at different culture time points (2-43 days). Static compression had little effect early in culture but significantly decreased synthesis at later time points, while dynamic compression stimulated matrix production, with both responses becoming more pronounced as matrix accumulated around the cells over time. The findings suggest that cell-matrix interactions and physicochemical changes, rather than simple cell deformation, primarily drive chondrocyte responses to mechanical loading, and that agarose culture systems can effectively model cartilage behavior for research purposes.

CHONDROCYTE DEFORMATION AND LOCAL TISSUE STRAIN IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: A CONFOCAL MICROSCOPY STUDY.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100130315 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:10:37
This study investigated how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) change shape and volume when articular cartilage is compressed, to better understand how mechanical forces might influence cell behavior. The researchers used three-dimensional confocal microscopy to measure changes in cell morphology across different zones of canine cartilage explants subjected to 15% compression.

The key findings showed that chondrocytes experienced significant deformation during compression, with cell height decreasing by 19-26% and cell volume shrinking by 16-22% across all cartilage zones. The surface zone experienced the greatest local strain (19%) compared to middle and deep zones, indicating it is less stiff, and surface zone cells showed directional expansion perpendicular to the tissue's natural fiber orientation.

Importantly, all cellular deformation was completely reversible when compression was removed, supporting the hypothesis that chondrocyte deformation during normal joint loading may serve as a key mechanism for cells to sense and respond to mechanical forces in cartilage.

A THEORETICAL SOLUTION FOR THE FRICTIONLESS ROLLING CONTACT OF CYLINDRICAL BIPHASIC ARTICULAR CARTILAGE LAYERS.

DOI: 10.1016/0021-9290(95)00008-6 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:10:30
This study developed a theoretical model to understand how articular cartilage responds during rolling joint motion, such as occurs during normal movement. The researchers used mathematical modeling based on the biphasic theory of cartilage (which treats cartilage as a solid matrix filled with fluid) to analyze frictionless rolling contact between cylindrical cartilage surfaces under steady-state conditions.

The key finding was that interstitial fluid pressurization can support over 90% of applied loads during rolling motion when a dimensionless parameter (Rh) reaches physiological levels around 10⁴, effectively protecting the solid cartilage matrix from high stresses and reducing tissue deformation. However, in degenerative cartilage where permeability increases and Rh drops significantly, this protective fluid pressurization mechanism becomes less effective, potentially leading to greater matrix stress and further tissue deterioration.

REPAIR AND FUNCTION OF SYNOVIUM AFTER ARTHROSCOPIC SYNOVECTOMY OF THE DORSAL COMPARTMENT OF THE EQUINE ANTEBRACHIOCARPAL JOINT.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1532-950x.1996.tb01390.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:10:24
This study investigated whether equine synovium (joint lining tissue) can regenerate after surgical removal and whether exercise affects this healing process. Researchers performed subtotal synovectomy on one wrist joint in 8 horses using arthroscopic techniques, then divided them into exercise and rest groups for 120 days, evaluating outcomes through lameness exams, synovial fluid analysis, and detailed tissue examination. The main findings showed that synovium successfully regenerated within 120 days with functional cells capable of synthesis and maintenance of normal joint fluid composition, though the new tissue lacked normal structural features like villi and had increased fibrous tissue. Exercise neither impaired healing nor accelerated the repair process, and no horses developed lameness or significant cartilage damage during the study period.

DYNAMIC FRACTURE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE OSTEOCHONDRAL JUNCTION UNDERGOING SHEAR DEFORMATION.

DOI: 10.1016/1350-4533(95)00067-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:10:17
This study investigated how the cartilage-bone junction (osteochondral junction) fails under high-speed shear forces, comparing immature and mature tissue samples. The researchers used an impact machine to apply rapid shear loads at 2500 mm/s to cartilage samples while capturing both mechanical data and real-time photographs of the fracture process.

The key findings showed that mature tissue had 1.5 times greater fracture toughness than immature tissue, but immature tissue was approximately 4 times stiffer. Structurally, mature tissue failed cleanly along the tidemark (the natural boundary between cartilage and bone), while immature tissue fractured more extensively through the underlying bone where cartilage projections penetrate deeply.

The researchers suggest that the increased stiffness but lower toughness of immature tissue may explain why younger individuals are more susceptible to certain types of joint injuries involving the cartilage-bone interface.

CONTRIBUTIONS OF FLUID CONVECTION AND ELECTRICAL MIGRATION TO TRANSPORT IN CARTILAGE: RELEVANCE TO LOADING.

DOI: 10.1006/abbi.1996.0397 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:10:05
This study investigated how different transport mechanisms affect the movement of molecules through articular cartilage, particularly under conditions that mimic joint loading. The researchers used electric currents to create controlled fluid flow (electroosmosis) through cartilage explants and tested various neutral and charged molecules of different sizes using radioactive and fluorescent tracers. The key findings showed that fluid convection significantly enhanced molecular transport compared to diffusion alone, with enhancement factors ranging from 2.3-fold for small molecules like water to 25-fold for larger 10-kDa molecules, demonstrating that convective transport becomes increasingly important for larger solutes. Additionally, electrical migration of charged molecules (like sulfate ions) could enhance transport by up to 10-fold, suggesting that the streaming potentials generated during joint loading may play an important role in nutrient and waste transport in cartilage.

DEFORMATION OF LOADED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE PREPARED FOR SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPY WITH RAPID FREEZING AND FREEZE-SUBSTITUTION FIXATION.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100150112 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:09:51
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects collagen fiber structure in articular cartilage using advanced microscopy techniques. Researchers applied controlled loads (0.5-4 times body weight) to 45 rabbit knees for varying durations, then used rapid freezing and freeze-substitution fixation to preserve the tissue structure before examining it with scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that loading created visible indentations in the cartilage proportional to load magnitude and duration, with cartilage thickness reduced by 15-80% at contact points. Most importantly, the study revealed that loading causes radial collagen fibers to develop a periodic crimp pattern and bend to form new tangential arrangements, suggesting these fibers buckle under normal physiological loads.

A TECHNIQUE FOR MEASURING THE COMPRESSIVE MODULUS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER PHYSIOLOGICAL LOADING RATES WITH PRELIMINARY RESULTS.

DOI: 10.1243/0954411971534278 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:09:45
This study aimed to develop a new technique for measuring the compressive modulus of articular cartilage under physiologically realistic loading rates, as opposed to the slow loading conditions used in previous studies. The researchers designed specialized apparatus to test cartilage samples from five human knee joints, measuring deformation within 10-150 milliseconds (the normal timeframe for joint loading) rather than the typical 2-second delay used in conventional testing. The key finding was that cartilage compressive modulus measured under physiological loading rates (4.4-27 MPa at 20 ms) was significantly higher—32-75% greater—than values obtained using traditional slow loading methods. This suggests that previous studies may have substantially underestimated cartilage stiffness under real-world loading conditions, with important implications for understanding cartilage function and biomechanics.

MIXED AND PENALTY FINITE ELEMENT MODELS FOR THE NONLINEAR BEHAVIOR OF BIPHASIC SOFT TISSUES IN FINITE DEFORMATION: PART I - ALTERNATE FORMULATIONS.

DOI: 10.1080/01495739708936693 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:09:39
This study aimed to develop advanced finite element computational models for analyzing the complex mechanical behavior of soft hydrated tissues like articular cartilage under realistic loading conditions. The researchers used a biphasic continuum approach that treats tissue as a mixture of incompressible fluid and hyperelastic solid, implementing two different finite element formulations (mixed-penalty and velocity-pressure methods) to solve the nonlinear governing equations with strain-dependent permeability effects. The study demonstrated mathematical equivalence between their mixed-penalty method and a previously established penalty method, while showing that both formulations could produce convergent solutions for nonlinear tissue mechanics problems. Importantly, they found that the velocity-pressure formulation was computationally more efficient than the mixed-penalty approach, providing a practical advantage for complex tissue modeling applications.

COMPRESSIVE STRAINS AT PHYSIOLOGICAL FREQUENCIES INFLUENCE THE METABOLISM OF CHONDROCYTES SEEDED IN AGAROSE.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100150205 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:09:33
This study investigated how mechanical loading at different frequencies affects cartilage cell metabolism using chondrocytes embedded in agarose gel as a model system. The researchers applied 15% compressive strain either statically or dynamically at frequencies ranging from 0.3 to 3 Hz, then measured three key metabolic processes: glycosaminoglycan synthesis, DNA synthesis (cell proliferation), and protein synthesis. The results showed that mechanical loading effects were frequency-dependent, with static and low-frequency (0.3 Hz) loading inhibiting glycosaminoglycan production while 1 Hz loading stimulated it, dynamic loading at all frequencies promoting cell proliferation, and all loading conditions suppressing protein synthesis. Since each metabolic process responded differently to the mechanical stimuli, the findings suggest that distinct, uncoupled signaling pathways control these cellular responses to mechanical stress.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFORMATION UNDER PHYSIOLOGICAL CYCLIC LOADING--APPARATUS AND MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUE.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(96)00166-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:09:27
This study aimed to develop specialized testing equipment to examine how articular cartilage responds to realistic loading conditions that mimic walking and movement, where cartilage experiences alternating periods of loading and complete unloading. The researchers designed a custom apparatus using a cam and stepper motor system that could apply cyclic loads from 0-2.5 Hz with controllable loading durations as brief as 20 ms, overcoming limitations of standard testing machines that cannot achieve true zero-load conditions. The system featured interchangeable indenters, adjustable contact stresses (0.04-7.0 MPa), rapid load application (within 15 ms), and high-frequency data collection (5 kHz) to precisely measure cartilage deformation and recovery. This apparatus enables more physiologically relevant studies of cartilage biomechanics by closely replicating the load-free recovery periods that occur during normal joint movement.

VISCOELASTIC PROPERTIES OF THE PIG TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT ARTICULAR SOFT TISSUES OF THE CONDYLE AND DISC.

DOI: 10.1177/00220345970760110701 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:09:20
This study investigated how temporomandibular joint (TMJ) tissues respond to compression forces that occur during jaw clenching. The researchers used indentation testing on fresh TMJ discs and condylar cartilage from 10 pigs, applying sustained compression (continuous 10-minute loading) and intermittent compression (1-second loads with 2-second rest periods) at forces of 10, 20, and 30 Newtons. Both tissue types showed viscoelastic behavior with immediate deformation followed by gradual creep under constant load, but they responded differently to loading patterns. The articular cartilage showed force-dependent deformation and was significantly more compliant under intermittent versus sustained loading, while the disc tissue was stiffer overall and showed no difference between loading patterns, suggesting the disc may be better suited to withstand sustained compressive forces during jaw clenching.

FINITE DEFORMATION BIPHASIC MATERIAL PROPERTIES OF BOVINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE FROM CONFINED COMPRESSION EXPERIMENTS.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(97)85606-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:09:11
This study tested whether a hyperelastic biphasic theory could accurately describe the large deformation behavior of articular cartilage under compression. The researchers used bovine cartilage plugs in confined compression tests, performing both stress-relaxation experiments (to determine material properties) and creep experiments (to validate the model's predictive ability). The hyperelastic biphasic model showed excellent fit to stress-relaxation data (R² = 0.99) and reasonably accurate predictions of creep behavior (within 10% of experimental results). However, the study revealed limitations in determining permeability coefficients, as these parameters showed low sensitivity in the curve-fitting procedure, leading to different values when derived from stress-relaxation versus creep experiments.

REPEATABILITY OF PATELLAR CARTILAGE THICKNESS PATTERNS IN THE LIVING, USING A FAT-SUPPRESSED MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING SEQUENCE WITH SHORT ACQUISITION TIME AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL DATA PROCESSING.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100150604 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:09:02
This study aimed to test the repeatability of measuring patellar cartilage thickness patterns in living subjects using a rapid MRI technique combined with 3D image processing. The researchers used a fat-suppressed FLASH-3D MRI sequence (4 minutes 10 seconds acquisition time) to image the knees of eight healthy volunteers six times each, with repositioning between scans, then applied 3D reconstruction and thickness mapping algorithms. The method demonstrated excellent repeatability, with cartilage volume measurements showing a mean coefficient of variation of only 1.35%, and thickness pattern analysis showing that 75% of pixels were classified into the same thickness category across repeated measurements. The authors concluded that this rapid MRI approach can accurately and precisely quantify cartilage thickness distribution in living subjects in under 5 minutes.

INTERMITTENT CYCLIC LOADING OF CARTILAGE EXPLANTS MODULATES FIBRONECTIN METABOLISM.

DOI: 10.1016/s1063-4584(97)80037-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:08:55
This study investigated how different mechanical loading patterns affect fibronectin production in bovine cartilage explants, since fibronectin changes are associated with osteoarthritis development. The researchers applied intermittent cyclic compression at various stress levels (0.1-1.0 MPa), rest periods (10-1000 seconds), and durations (1-6 days), then measured fibronectin synthesis and release using radioactive labeling and immunoassays. The key finding was that the timing of rest periods between loading cycles was the most critical factor influencing fibronectin metabolism, with optimal stimulation occurring at 0.5 MPa stress applied for 10 seconds followed by 100 seconds of rest. The results suggest that specific mechanical loading patterns can trigger fibronectin changes in healthy cartilage that resemble those seen in osteoarthritic joints, providing insights into how abnormal joint loading may contribute to cartilage degeneration.

EFFECT OF PHYSICAL EXERCISE ON CARTILAGE VOLUME AND THICKNESS IN VIVO: MR IMAGING STUDY.

DOI: 10.1148/radiology.207.1.9530322 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:08:49
This study aimed to measure how physical exercise affects cartilage volume and thickness in living joints using MRI imaging. The researchers scanned the kneecap cartilage of eight volunteers multiple times before exercise, then again at 3-7 and 8-12 minutes after performing 50 knee bends, using advanced 3D reconstruction techniques to measure cartilage dimensions. The key finding was a significant decrease in cartilage volume of about 6% within minutes after exercise, which persisted for at least 8-12 minutes post-exercise, with the compression occurring uniformly across the joint surface. The results demonstrate that MRI can effectively track real-time cartilage changes during loading, and highlight the importance of allowing adequate rest periods before taking cartilage measurements in research studies.

AN MR-BASED TECHNIQUE FOR QUANTIFYING THE DEFORMATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DURING MECHANICAL LOADING IN AN INTACT CADAVER JOINT.

DOI: 10.1002/mrm.1910390522 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:08:42
This study aimed to develop an MRI-based method for measuring how articular cartilage deforms under mechanical loading in intact cadaver joints with high spatial and temporal resolution. The researchers built a non-metallic pressure device capable of applying loads exceeding 1000 N to knee joints (femoro-patellar articulation) inside a 1.5 T MRI scanner, then used digital image processing to analyze cartilage deformation in both 2D and 3D fat-suppressed FLASH images over time. The results showed substantial cartilage deformation, with thickness reductions of 10-30% within the first 10 minutes of loading and even greater changes (>50% thickness reduction, 20% volume loss) after 3 hours of compression. This technique enables researchers to study the time- and load-dependent mechanical behavior of cartilage in its natural joint environment, providing valuable insights into cartilage biomechanics under physiologically relevant conditions.

INCOMPRESSIBILITY OF THE SOLID MATRIX OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER HIGH HYDROSTATIC PRESSURES.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(98)00035-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:08:37
This study tested whether the solid matrix of articular cartilage is incompressible under physiological pressure levels, which is a key assumption of biphasic theory used to model cartilage mechanics. The researchers developed a specialized high-pressure chamber and subjected bovine articular cartilage specimens to hydrostatic pressures up to 12 MPa while measuring tissue deformation. The results showed that normal cartilage did not deform measurably under these high hydrostatic pressures, confirming that the organic solid matrix is indeed incompressible within the physiological range. These findings validate the biphasic theory's fundamental assumption and provide a framework for accurately calculating stress states in cartilage explant culture experiments that use hydrostatic loading.

EFFECTS OF INJURIOUS COMPRESSION ON MATRIX TURNOVER AROUND INDIVIDUAL CELLS IN CALF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100160415 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:08:31
This study investigated how mechanical injury affects cartilage matrix metabolism at the individual cell level using calf articular cartilage explants. The researchers used quantitative autoradiography combined with biochemical and biomechanical techniques to analyze cell and matrix responses to acute injurious compression, focusing on localized matrix turnover around individual chondrocytes. The study found that injurious compression caused immediate mechanical failure of the collagen matrix (reduced tensile strength), significant cell death with surviving cells becoming abnormally enlarged and catabolically active, and sustained increases in proteoglycan turnover specifically around viable cells. These findings suggest the model captures key cellular and matrix responses to mechanical injury that may be relevant to understanding osteoarthritis development and cartilage repair strategies.

DEFORMATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE COLLAGEN STRUCTURE UNDER STATIC AND CYCLIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100160617 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:08:26
This study investigated how the collagen structure of articular cartilage deforms under different loading conditions to better understand normal cartilage function and validate tissue-engineered replacements. The researchers applied static and cyclic compressive loads (at high and low magnitudes) to rabbit knee joints for 30 minutes, then used specialized microscopy techniques to examine the structural changes in the cartilage collagen network. Static loading caused significantly greater deformation throughout all cartilage layers compared to cyclic loading, which primarily affected only the superficial regions, with cartilage thickness reducing to 54% versus 78% of original thickness, respectively. All structural deformation recovered completely within 30 minutes after unloading, but recovery was faster following cyclic loading, suggesting that cartilage collagen exhibits zone-specific responses that depend on both the magnitude and type of mechanical load applied.

THE EFFECT OF CARTILAGE DEFORMATION ON THE LAXITY OF THE KNEE JOINT.

DOI: 10.1243/0954411991534771 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:08:19
This study aimed to investigate how cartilage deformation affects knee joint laxity by incorporating deformable cartilage layers into an existing two-dimensional knee joint model. The researchers used a quasi-static mathematical model that simulates the Lachman drawer test, calculating tibio-femoral contact forces using a "thin-layer" constitutive equation to determine knee configuration under specified loads. The results showed that including deformable cartilage reduced the force needed to produce a given tibial displacement by 10-35% across different knee flexion angles. However, while cartilage deformation was an important factor modifying joint loading response, ligament fiber recruitment had a much stronger influence on passive joint laxity than cartilage deformation.

EFFECTS OF INTERMITTENTLY APPLIED CYCLIC LOADING ON PROTEOGLYCAN METABOLISM AND SWELLING BEHAVIOUR OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1053/joca.1998.0204 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:08:14
This study investigated how different mechanical loading conditions affect proteoglycan (PG) metabolism and tissue swelling in bovine cartilage explants to understand cartilage responses to mechanical stress. The researchers applied cyclic compression at varying intensities (0.1-1.0 MPa), durations (1-6 days), and rest intervals (10-1000 seconds) while measuring PG synthesis, release, and tissue deformation.

The key findings showed that PG synthesis peaked at day 3 with optimal rest intervals of 100 seconds, while PG release remained unaffected by loading conditions initially. However, after 6 days of loading, the cartilage showed signs of degeneration including increased release of existing PGs, reduced cell viability in surface layers, and tissue swelling—changes that mirror those seen in osteoarthritic cartilage.

TREATMENT OF TEAR OF THE ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT COMBINED WITH LOCALISED DEEP CARTILAGE DEFECTS IN THE KNEE WITH LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION AND AUTOLOGOUS PERIOSTEUM TRANSPLANTATION.

DOI: 10.1007/s001670050124 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:08:08
This study evaluated a combined surgical approach for patients with both torn anterior cruciate ligaments (ACL) and deep cartilage defects in the knee. The researchers performed simultaneous ACL reconstruction using patellar tendon grafts and cartilage repair using autologous periosteum transplantation (tissue from the patient's own bone lining) secured with suture anchors and fibrin glue in 7 patients with cartilage defects averaging 7.3 cm². After an average follow-up of 31 months, 6 out of 7 patients had stable knees without pain and returned to moderately active work, while one patient had stability but continued medial knee pain. The authors concluded that this combined technique can be effective for treating these challenging combined injuries when performed with careful surgical technique and rigorous rehabilitation.

A METHOD FOR QUANTIFYING TIME DEPENDENT CHANGES IN MR SIGNAL INTENSITY OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AS A FUNCTION OF TISSUE DEFORMATION IN INTACT JOINTS.

DOI: 10.1016/s1350-4533(98)00082-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:08:01
This study developed a method to track changes in MRI signal intensity of articular cartilage during mechanical loading of intact joints. The researchers used image processing techniques to identify and follow specific cartilage regions across sequential MR images during compression, allowing them to measure both tissue deformation and corresponding signal changes over time. Preliminary results using fat-suppressed FLASH 3D sequences showed location-specific signal intensity changes that varied between individuals during cartilage compression. This quantitative approach aims to characterize cartilage microstructural properties through MRI, potentially improving understanding of degenerative joint diseases.

MODELLING OF LOCATION- AND TIME-DEPENDENT DEFORMATION OF CHONDROCYTES DURING CARTILAGE LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(99)00034-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:07:56
This study aimed to develop a theoretical model that predicts how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) deform over time when cartilage is mechanically loaded. The researchers created a mathematical model treating cartilage as a homogenized material with properties dependent on both cell and matrix characteristics, then tested it using confined and unconfined compression scenarios. The model successfully predicted time-dependent changes in fluid pressure, stress distribution, and cell deformation, with results matching previous theoretical and experimental data. This modeling approach provides a valuable tool for understanding how mechanical loading influences cartilage degeneration, adaptation, and repair processes.

THE EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX, INTERSTITIAL FLUID AND IONS AS A MECHANICAL SIGNAL TRANSDUCER IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1053/joca.1998.0161 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:07:51
This review aimed to analyze how different types of mechanical loading are converted into cellular signals in articular cartilage explants, focusing on the role of the extracellular matrix (ECM), fluid flow, and ion movement in mechanotransduction. The authors examined five fundamental loading conditions (hydrostatic pressure, osmotic pressure, permeation, confined compression, and unconfined compression) and described how each creates distinct patterns of pressure, fluid flow, deformation, and electrical fields within the cartilage ECM. Key findings highlighted that osmotic pressure effects cannot be replicated by other laboratory loading methods, and that flow-induced compression of the ECM through frictional drag represents a major mechanical signal, along with streaming potentials generated when ions flow past the ECM's fixed charges. Understanding these distinct mechano-electrochemical responses is crucial for interpreting how chondrocytes respond metabolically to different loading conditions in experimental studies.

THE DEFORMATION BEHAVIOR AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CHONDROCYTES IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1053/joca.1998.0162 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:07:44
This study aimed to characterize the mechanical environment of chondrocytes (cartilage cells) within articular cartilage to understand how they respond to mechanical loading. The researchers used micropipette aspiration to measure the mechanical properties of isolated chondrocytes and their surrounding pericellular matrix (PCM), then incorporated these values into finite element models to predict cell behavior under loading, validating their predictions with 3D confocal microscopy of actual cell deformation.

The key findings showed that chondrocytes behave as viscoelastic materials with a Young's modulus of approximately 0.6 kPa, while the PCM had intermediate stiffness between the soft chondrocyte and the much stiffer surrounding cartilage matrix. The study demonstrated that the PCM plays a crucial biomechanical role in cartilage function, as theoretical predictions only matched experimental observations when the PCM was included in the models, suggesting that age- or disease-related changes in PCM properties could significantly alter how chondrocytes experience mechanical forces.

ORGANISATION OF THE CHONDROCYTE CYTOSKELETON AND ITS RESPONSE TO CHANGING MECHANICAL CONDITIONS IN ORGAN CULTURE.

DOI: 10.1046/j.1469-7580.1999.19430343.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:07:38
This study aimed to characterize the 3D organization of chondrocyte cytoskeletal structures within cartilage and examine how these structures respond to different mechanical loading conditions. The researchers used cartilage explants from rat femoral heads, applied various compressive loads (0.5-4 MPa), and analyzed cytoskeletal components (actin and vimentin) using confocal microscopy and 3D modeling techniques. They found that actin filaments form surface networks with focal contacts to the surrounding matrix and remain stable under different conditions, while vimentin networks are more dynamic and sensitive to mechanical changes. Importantly, when cartilage swells in culture (unloaded conditions), vimentin networks rapidly disassemble within 1 hour, but this disassembly is prevented by applying compressive loads greater than 0.5 MPa, suggesting that chondrocytes use their vimentin cytoskeleton to sense and respond to mechanical changes in their tissue environment.

LOAD SHARING BETWEEN SOLID AND FLUID PHASES IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: I--EXPERIMENTAL DETERMINATION OF IN SITU MECHANICAL CONDITIONS IN A PORCINE KNEE.

DOI: 10.1115/1.2834752 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:07:30
This study aimed to measure the mechanical conditions of cartilage within intact porcine knee joints during loading to understand how cartilage responds in its natural environment. The researchers applied a 445 N compressive force to six porcine knees and measured cartilage deformation using X-rays and contact pressures using fiber-optic sensors, while also testing the material properties of the cartilage through indentation tests. The results showed that the medial side of the lateral femoral condyle experienced both higher contact pressures and greater deformation compared to other areas of the condyle, and this region also had a significantly higher aggregate modulus (stiffness). These experimental measurements provide essential baseline data that can be combined with theoretical models to better understand how the solid matrix and fluid components of cartilage work together to bear loads during joint function.

A NOTE ON AN ASYMPTOTIC SOLUTION FOR THE CONTACT OF TWO BIPHASIC CARTILAGE LAYERS IN A LOADED SYNOVIAL JOINT AT REST.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(99)00082-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:07:24
This study aimed to improve existing mathematical models for cartilage contact mechanics in synovial joints by examining the accuracy of asymptotic solutions developed by Ateshian et al. for biphasic cartilage layers under sudden loading.

The researchers compared the contact width predictions from Ateshian's asymptotic solution (which assumed zero pressure gradient at contact edges) with established numerical values for elastic layer contact, and proposed modifications using equations from Matthewson and Meijers to better approximate the contact behavior.

The main finding was that Ateshian's original solution significantly overestimated contact widths compared to numerical benchmarks, with errors becoming larger as the contact width-to-layer thickness ratio decreased. The proposed modification, which removes the zero pressure gradient assumption and incorporates more accurate contact width calculations, provides better agreement with established numerical solutions for cartilage contact mechanics.

FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFORMATION, RECOVERY, AND FLUID FLOW FOLLOWING DYNAMIC EXERCISE IN VIVO.

DOI: 10.1007/s004290050291 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:07:16
This study aimed to quantify how human articular cartilage deforms, recovers, and exchanges fluid during and after dynamic exercise in living joints. The researchers used specialized 3D MRI imaging to measure patellar cartilage volume changes in 7 volunteers before and after performing knee bends (50 and 100 repetitions), tracking recovery over 90+ minutes. The key findings showed that cartilage compressed by 2.4-8.6% after exercise, required more than 90 minutes to fully recover, and demonstrated measurable fluid flow rates (1.1-3.5 mm³/min) that correlated with the degree of initial deformation. This represents the first in vivo quantification of cartilage recovery and fluid flow in intact human joints, providing important baseline data for understanding cartilage biomechanics and potentially predicting joint health.

IN SITU MEASUREMENT OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFORMATION IN INTACT FEMOROPATELLAR JOINTS UNDER STATIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(99)00130-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:07:10
This study aimed to measure how articular cartilage deforms in intact human knee joints during prolonged static loading, addressing a gap in our understanding of cartilage behavior under realistic conditions. The researchers used MRI imaging to monitor six human femoropatellar joints while applying loads equivalent to 150% body weight for 32 hours using a specialized non-metallic pressure device compatible with MRI scanners. The study found that patellar cartilage underwent substantial deformation, compressing by an average of 44% (up to 57% in some cases) after 32 hours of loading, with most deformation occurring gradually rather than immediately—only 7% of the final deformation happened in the first minute. The cartilage also lost 43% of its fluid content during loading, and there was high variability between individuals, providing crucial data for understanding cartilage mechanics and developing treatments for osteoarthritis and cartilage transplantation.

A CHONDRAL MODELING THEORY REVISITED.

DOI: 10.1006/jtbi.1999.1025 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:07:03
This study revisits and expands Frost's chondral modeling theory to explain how joint surfaces maintain proper shape and function during growth despite changing mechanical environments. The authors developed a theoretical model incorporating recent research on stress distribution in developing joints, chondrocyte responses to mechanical forces, and articular cartilage development patterns. The expanded theory proposes that muscle contractions during locomotor development create fluctuating hydrostatic pressure within articular cartilage, with pressure levels increasing from birth to adulthood, and that these mechanical forces regulate chondrocyte activity through cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. The model explains how site-specific cartilage growth rates are controlled by the magnitude, frequency, and direction of joint loads, allowing joints to maintain normal movement patterns and explaining observed scaling patterns of joint curvature across mammalian species.

INTERSTITIAL FLUID PRESSURIZATION DURING CONFINED COMPRESSION CYCLICAL LOADING OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1114/1.239 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:06:57
This study aimed to experimentally test the widely accepted but previously unverified hypothesis that fluid pressurization within cartilage contributes significantly to the tissue's ability to resist mechanical loads during cyclic compression. The researchers tested 18 bovine cartilage samples using a specialized compression chamber with pressure sensors, applying cyclic loads at different frequencies (0.0001 to 0.1 Hz) while simultaneously measuring fluid pressure and tissue deformation. The results confirmed that above a critical frequency of 0.00044 Hz, the fluid pressure closely matched the applied stress and nearly eliminated tissue strain, with experimental data closely matching theoretical predictions (R² = 0.89-0.96). These findings provide direct experimental evidence that cartilage's dynamic stiffness is primarily due to interstitial fluid pressurization, validating the biphasic theory of cartilage mechanics and demonstrating that fluid pressure is the fundamental mechanism by which cartilage supports loads across different loading frequencies.

FINITE ELEMENT SIMULATION OF LOCATION- AND TIME-DEPENDENT MECHANICAL BEHAVIOR OF CHONDROCYTES IN UNCONFINED COMPRESSION TESTS.

DOI: 10.1114/1.271 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:06:50
This study aimed to simulate the mechanical behavior of chondrocytes (cartilage cells) during compression testing using computational modeling, since direct measurement of cell mechanics is technically challenging. The researchers used a two-step finite element approach: first modeling cartilage as a homogenized material to determine overall mechanical behavior, then using those results as boundary conditions for a detailed microscopic model of individual cells and surrounding matrix, treating both as biphasic materials with fluid and solid components.

The simulations revealed that chondrocyte mechanical responses are highly dependent on time, location within the cartilage, and fluid boundary conditions. Key findings showed that individual chondrocytes can deform 3-4 times more than the overall tissue deformation, that cell deformations remain dynamic without reaching steady state even after 20 minutes of compression, and that mechanical responses vary significantly based on cell location within the cartilage sample.

ESTIMATION OF IN SITU ELASTIC PROPERTIES OF BIPHASIC CARTILAGE BASED ON A TRANSVERSELY ISOTROPIC HYPO-ELASTIC MODEL.

DOI: 10.1115/1.429622 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:06:43
This study aimed to develop a method for determining the nonlinear elastic properties of cartilage under large deformations, addressing the limitation that small-strain mechanical properties overestimate deformations in finite element models of severe joint impacts. The researchers used large deformation indentation tests with a spherical indenter on rabbit cartilage, fitting both rapid loading and equilibrium force-displacement curves using a transversely isotropic hypo-elastic biphasic model solved through finite element analysis. The model successfully captured cartilage behavior up to 50% strain and revealed that the fluid phase of cartilage supports an even higher percentage of stress during large deformations than previously predicted by small-strain biphasic theories. This approach provides a more accurate representation of cartilage mechanics for studying high-impact joint loading scenarios.

PATELLAR CARTILAGE DEFORMATION IN VIVO AFTER STATIC VERSUS DYNAMIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(00)00034-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:06:37
This study investigated whether static loading (90-degree squatting) and dynamic loading (30 deep knee bends) produce different patterns of patellar cartilage deformation in healthy volunteers. The researchers used MRI with specialized imaging sequences and 3D analysis algorithms to measure cartilage volume and thickness changes in 12 participants before and after each loading activity (90-320 seconds post-loading). Both activities caused significant cartilage deformation, but with different patterns: dynamic knee bends produced greater overall volume reduction (-5.9% vs -4.7%) with maximum deformation in the superior lateral and medial patellar regions, while static squatting caused greater maximum thickness reduction (-4.9% vs -2.8%) concentrated in the central lateral patellar area. These findings demonstrate that loading type influences both the magnitude and location of cartilage deformation, providing valuable data for biomechanical modeling and understanding cartilage responses to different activities.

A VISCOELASTIC ANALYSIS OF THE TENSILE WEAKENING OF DEEP FEMORAL HEAD ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1243/0954411001535732 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:06:30
This study investigated how aging affects the tensile mechanical properties of deep articular cartilage from the femoral head of the hip joint. The researchers used a viscoelastic constitutive model (based on Egan's 1988 work) to analyze the mechanical behavior and validated their predictions with experimental fracture stress data. The key finding was that older cartilage shows significant tensile weakening due to age-related reduction in the recruitment of load-carrying structures during deformation, along with decreased viscoelastic response. The authors concluded that this tensile weakening may compromise the tissue's ability to withstand normal compressive loads, potentially increasing susceptibility to osteoarthritic degeneration through altered energy storage and dissipation mechanisms in the cartilage microstructure.

A VERSATILE SHEAR AND COMPRESSION APPARATUS FOR MECHANICAL STIMULATION OF TISSUE CULTURE EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(00)00100-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:06:25
This study aimed to develop and test a new mechanical loading device for studying how physical forces affect cartilage tissue in laboratory culture conditions. The researchers created a compact biaxial loading apparatus that fits inside standard incubators and can apply very precise compression and shear forces to tissue samples, with resolution as fine as 50 nanometers for axial movement and 0.0005 degrees for rotation. Testing with articular cartilage explants showed that applying oscillating shear deformation significantly increased the production of key cartilage components (proteoglycans and proteins) compared to samples under static compression alone. This device provides researchers with a precise tool for investigating how mechanical stimulation influences cartilage metabolism and potentially tissue repair processes.

EFFECT OF MECHANICAL LOAD ON ARTICULAR CARTILAGE COLLAGEN STRUCTURE: A SCANNING ELECTRON-MICROSCOPIC STUDY.

DOI: 10.1159/000016774 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:06:18
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects the structural organization of collagen fibers in articular cartilage. Researchers applied different levels of simulated quadriceps forces (0.5x, 1x, and 3x body weight) to intact rabbit knee joints for either 5 or 30 minutes, then used cryopreservation and scanning electron microscopy to examine collagen fiber changes. Under high force and prolonged loading, the cartilage showed substantial deformation with increased thickness of surface-parallel collagen fibers and overall cartilage thickness reduced to 54% of normal. The deformation primarily occurred in the transitional and upper radial zones, with greater indentation and thickness reduction correlating with higher loads and longer loading duration.

SUSTAINED LOADING INCREASES THE COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.3109/03008209809021500 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:06:13
This study tested whether sustained loading weakens articular cartilage by examining cartilage-on-bone specimens from bovine knee joints. Researchers compared the compressive strength of 40 specimens using cyclic loading until failure, with half the specimens pre-loaded for 30 minutes at 2 MPa to simulate sustained joint loading. Contrary to the original hypothesis, sustained loading actually increased cartilage strength by 21%, despite reducing cartilage thickness by 45% through fluid loss. The authors conclude that water expulsion from sustained loading strengthens cartilage by reducing the risk of surface zone rupture, challenging assumptions about how prolonged joint loading affects cartilage integrity.

THE ACUTE STRUCTURAL CHANGES OF LOADED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE FOLLOWING MENISCECTOMY OR ACL-TRANSECTION.

DOI: 10.1053/joca.1999.0322 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:06:07
This study investigated how meniscectomy (meniscus removal) and ACL rupture immediately affect cartilage structure under mechanical loading in rabbit knee joints. The researchers used 87 rabbit knees loaded ex vivo with simulated quadriceps forces, then rapidly froze the joints while under load to preserve cartilage deformation for scanning electron microscopy analysis. Following meniscectomy, cartilage showed significantly increased structural damage including 80% more indentation area, greater thickness reduction under load, doubled recovery time, and increased bending of collagen fibers—but these effects were minimized when joints were allowed to move during loading. ACL transection had much milder effects, only slightly increasing collagen deformation in deeper cartilage zones during cyclic loading, suggesting that meniscectomy creates more immediate biomechanical disruption that could contribute to osteoarthritis development.

COMPARISON OF BIOMECHANICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF CARTILAGE FROM HUMAN KNEE AND ANKLE PAIRS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100180510 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:06:00
This study compared the biomechanical and biochemical properties of cartilage from human knee and ankle joints to understand structural differences that may influence osteoarthritis development. The researchers harvested cartilage samples from 8 matched knee and ankle joint pairs within 24 hours of death, then performed comprehensive testing including mechanical compression tests and biochemical analyses measuring water content, glycosaminoglycan, and collagen levels. The key finding was that ankle (talar) cartilage had superior mechanical properties compared to knee cartilage, including higher stiffness, lower permeability, higher glycosaminoglycan content, and lower water content in the superficial layer. These differences in the upper cartilage regions, which bear the brunt of loading during joint movement, may help explain why ankle joints are less susceptible to osteoarthritis than knee joints despite experiencing similar mechanical stresses.

DEFORMATION AND VASCULAR OCCLUSION OF THE GROWING RAT FEMORAL HEAD INDUCED BY MECHANICAL STRESS.

DOI: 10.1007/s007760070029 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:05:54
This study investigated how mechanical stress affects cartilage deformation and blood supply in the developing hip joint of growing rats. The researchers used a custom hip-joint loading device to apply 1-3 kg loads while conducting histological and microangiographic analyses to examine structural and vascular changes. The mechanical loading caused significant compression of both the articular cartilage and growth plate, particularly in the lateral portion of the femoral head, and completely blocked blood flow through the lateral epiphyseal arteries at their entry point into the cartilage. These findings reveal that mechanical stress preferentially damages the lateral side of the developing femoral head and identifies a vulnerable area where blood vessel occlusion can occur, which has important implications for understanding hip development disorders.

VISCOELASTIC PROPERTIES OF CHONDROCYTES FROM NORMAL AND OSTEOARTHRITIC HUMAN CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.1100180607 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:05:48
This study aimed to compare the mechanical properties of chondrocytes (cartilage cells) from healthy versus osteoarthritic human cartilage to understand how disease affects cellular mechanics. The researchers used micropipette aspiration testing to measure how individual cells deform under mechanical stress, analyzing the results with a three-parameter viscoelastic model. The key findings showed that osteoarthritic chondrocytes were significantly stiffer and more viscous than normal cells, with higher equilibrium modulus (0.33 vs 0.24 kPa), instantaneous modulus (0.63 vs 0.41 kPa), and apparent viscosity (5.8 vs 3.0 kPa-s). These mechanical changes likely reflect alterations in the cellular structure that occur in osteoarthritis and may affect how chondrocytes respond to mechanical loading in diseased cartilage.

MIXED AND PENALTY FINITE ELEMENT MODELS FOR THE NONLINEAR BEHAVIOR OF BIPHASIC SOFT TISSUES IN FINITE DEFORMATION: PART II - NONLINEAR EXAMPLES.

DOI: 10.1080/01495739708936700 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:05:43
This study aimed to develop and compare computational models for analyzing the nonlinear mechanical behavior of soft tissues like articular cartilage under physiological loading conditions. The researchers used finite element methods with two different mathematical formulations (mixed-penalty and velocity-pressure) to model cartilage as a two-phase mixture of fluid and solid components, accounting for complex behaviors like strain-dependent permeability and large deformations. The models were validated using various 2D and 3D elements through numerical examples that simulated material testing and simple joint mechanics. Both formulations successfully produced accurate results, but the velocity-pressure approach proved to be more computationally efficient for solving these complex nonlinear problems.

THE RELATIONSHIP OF THE COMPRESSIVE MODULUS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE WITH ITS DEFORMATION RESPONSE TO CYCLIC LOADING: DOES CARTILAGE OPTIMIZE ITS MODULUS SO AS TO MINIMIZE THE STRAINS ARISING IN IT DUE TO THE PREVALENT LOADING REGIME?

DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/40.3.274 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:05:37
This study investigated whether articular cartilage optimizes its stiffness to minimize strain during walking loads by examining the relationship between cartilage compressive modulus and its deformation response. The researchers tested 24 cartilage samples from three cadaveric knees using cyclic loading that mimicked walking patterns, measuring both elastic and viscous strain components along with creep rates over one hour.

The key findings showed that stiffer cartilage (>4 MPa) experienced lower elastic strains (0.05-0.13) compared to softer cartilage (0.18-0.36), but higher viscous strains that increased linearly with stiffness. The authors concluded that cartilage appears to optimize its mechanical properties based on local loading conditions, with the viscous strain differences likely explained by stiffer cartilage having lower permeability that impedes fluid flow during cyclic loading.

IN VIVO MORPHOMETRY AND FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS OF HUMAN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE WITH QUANTITATIVE MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING--FROM IMAGE TO DATA, FROM DATA TO THEORY.

DOI: 10.1007/s004290000154 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:05:31
This review examines the use of quantitative magnetic resonance (MR) imaging to assess human articular cartilage morphology and function in living subjects. The authors employed three-dimensional post-processing of MR image data using fat-suppressed gradient echo sequences to measure cartilage volume, thickness, joint surface areas, and deformation patterns in healthy and osteoarthritic joints. Key findings include highly reproducible measurements (1-3% variability in the knee), significant individual differences in cartilage morphology (~20% variability between people), and notable gender differences where men have slightly thicker cartilage (~10%) but much larger joint surfaces (~25%) than women. The study also revealed that cartilage deformation from exercise is age-dependent (6% in young vs <3% in elderly individuals) and requires approximately 90 minutes for full recovery, while muscle cross-sectional area was a better predictor of cartilage thickness than body weight or height.

CHONDROCYTE DEFORMATION WITHIN MECHANICALLY AND ENZYMATICALLY EXTRACTED CHONDRONS COMPRESSED IN AGAROSE.

DOI: 10.1016/s0304-4165(01)00118-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:05:24
This study investigated how different extraction methods affect the structure and mechanical behavior of chondrons (cartilage cells with their surrounding matrix) to better understand cartilage biomechanics. Researchers extracted chondrons from cartilage using either mechanical homogenization or enzymatic digestion, then embedded them in agarose gels and applied compression while measuring cell deformation and matrix structure. The mechanically extracted chondrons maintained their native structure and mechanical properties better than enzymatically extracted ones, showing no cell deformation under compression and constant cell size over time, unlike the other groups which showed significant deformation and size changes. These findings suggest that chondrons in intact cartilage may be stiffer than previously estimated, with important implications for understanding how cartilage cells respond to mechanical loading in healthy and diseased joints.

A PRELIMINARY STUDY OF JOINT SURFACE CHANGES AFTER AN INTRAARTICULAR FRACTURE: A SHEEP MODEL OF A TIBIA FRACTURE WITH WEIGHT BEARING AFTER INTERNAL FIXATION.

DOI: 10.1097/00005131-200106000-00004 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:05:18
This study aimed to evaluate how articular cartilage and subchondral bone respond to joint surface irregularities following intra-articular fractures. The researchers created 1.0-millimeter step-offs in the medial tibial plateau of 12 sheep, stabilized them with screws, and analyzed joint contact pressures and tissue changes after 12 weeks using pressure-sensitive film, light microscopy, and electron microscopy. The main findings showed that joints with step-offs developed two major contact areas with reduced loading at the fracture edge, leading to cartilage thinning and damage on the elevated side and some compensatory cartilage thickening elsewhere. Importantly, subchondral bone did not contribute to restoring joint surface smoothness (similar bone formation rates on both sides of the step-off), but the cartilage partially remodeled through deformation and collagen fiber bending, resulting in some improvement in joint contour despite persistent surface irregularity.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING OF THE WRIST.

DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-17545 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:05:10
This study aimed to describe optimal magnetic resonance imaging techniques for comprehensive evaluation of wrist anatomy and pathology. The authors utilized high-field strength magnets with dedicated wrist coils, employing thin-slice three-dimensional volumetric gradient sequences for ligament assessment and fast inversion recovery sequences with fat suppression for bone evaluation. The findings demonstrate that modern MR imaging can effectively visualize articular cartilage, the triangular fibrocartilage complex, intrinsic and extrinsic ligaments, and detect radiographically occult bone trauma. The techniques also enable assessment of cartilage conditions in young athletes and biomechanical disorders in adults, while contrast-enhanced MR angiography provides non-invasive vascular evaluation without requiring intra-articular injections.

CARTILAGE TISSUE REMODELING IN RESPONSE TO MECHANICAL FORCES.

DOI: 10.1146/annurev.bioeng.2.1.691 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:05:04
This review examines how mechanical forces regulate cartilage tissue remodeling through chondrocyte responses. The authors synthesized current research on mechanotransduction pathways, comparing effects of compression versus shear deformation and describing approaches to study mechanical regulation of gene expression. Key findings indicate that chondrocytes respond to mechanical stimuli through multiple regulatory pathways affecting transcription, translation, and matrix assembly/degradation. The research highlights that mechanotransduction creates a critical feedback loop between physical stimuli, molecular structure of newly synthesized matrix, and the resulting biomechanical properties of cartilage tissue.

AGE-RELATED CHANGES IN THE MORPHOLOGY AND DEFORMATIONAL BEHAVIOR OF KNEE JOINT CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/1529-0131(200111)44:113.0.co;2-u · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:04:59
This study investigated whether knee cartilage undergoes structural and mechanical changes during normal aging, similar to those seen in osteoarthritis. The researchers used MRI to measure cartilage thickness and surface area in 30 older adults (50-78 years) and 95 young adults (20-30 years), and assessed patellar cartilage deformation after knee bending exercises. The main findings showed that cartilage thinning does occur with aging in healthy individuals, with the most pronounced changes in femoral cartilage (13-21% thinner) and patellar cartilage in women (12% thinner), while tibial cartilage showed smaller, non-significant changes. Additionally, older adults demonstrated significantly less cartilage deformation during loading compared to younger subjects, suggesting age-related changes in cartilage mechanical properties even without disease.

DEFORMATION AND RUPTURE OF THE ARTICULAR SURFACE UNDER DYNAMIC AND STATIC COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/S0736-0266(01)00049-3 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:04:52
This study examined how articular cartilage responds to compression applied at different rates to understand what causes surface damage. Researchers compressed cartilage-on-bone samples using both dynamic (fast) and static (slow) loading while photographing the deformation through a transparent indenter, then calculated the strains using advanced mathematical analysis. The key finding was that static loading produced approximately twice the tensile surface strain compared to dynamic loading at the same stress level, with 60% of specimens rupturing at 15 MPa under static conditions while no rupture occurred even at 28 MPa under dynamic loading. The results suggest that articular cartilage is much more resistant to damage during rapid loading (typical of normal joint function) than slow loading, and that surface strain rather than applied stress is the critical factor determining cartilage failure.

TIME-DEPENDENT AGGRECAN GENE EXPRESSION OF ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES IN RESPONSE TO HYPEROSMOTIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1053/joca.2001.0473 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:04:46
This study investigated how increased extracellular osmolality (hyperosmotic conditions) affects aggrecan gene expression in cartilage cells. The researchers used bovine chondrocytes in culture and measured aggrecan promoter activity and mRNA levels using transfection assays and RT-PCR, while also tracking cell size changes through microscopy under various osmotic loading conditions. The key findings showed that 24-hour hyperosmotic loading reduced aggrecan gene expression by approximately two-fold and caused corresponding changes in cell size (shrinking and swelling), with the regulatory effects being time-dependent and influenced by exon 1 of the aggrecan promoter. Importantly, this suppression of aggrecan expression was eliminated when osmotic loading was applied cyclically or when serum was present in the culture medium, suggesting that the timing and biochemical environment significantly influence how cartilage cells respond to osmotic stress.

PREDICTIVE RHEOLOGICAL MODELS FOR THE CONSOLIDATION BEHAVIOUR OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER STATIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1243/0954411011536172 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:04:40
This study aimed to develop and evaluate rheological models that better predict how articular cartilage deforms and consolidates under static loading conditions. The researchers introduced a novel modeling approach that incorporates a swelling element alongside fluid-filled hyperelastic components to capture the tissue's time-dependent mechanical behavior. When tested against published experimental data for one-dimensional consolidation, the models demonstrated that accurately predicting cartilage's initial deformation response requires proper representation of tissue swelling and its complex interactions with mechanical properties like permeability and stiffness. The findings suggest that traditional models lacking swelling components cannot adequately predict the hydrostatic pressure changes that occur during early stages of cartilage loading.

IN SITU CELL NUCLEUS DEFORMATION IN TENDONS UNDER TENSILE LOAD; A MORPHOLOGICAL ANALYSIS USING CONFOCAL LASER MICROSCOPY.

DOI: 10.1016/S0736-0266(01)00080-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:04:34
This study investigated whether cell nuclei deform when tendons are stretched, as this deformation may be important for how cells sense and respond to mechanical forces. The researchers used rat tail tendons stained with fluorescent dye and mounted them on a specialized stretching device under a confocal microscope, then measured changes in cell nucleus shape at 0%, 2%, 4%, and 6% tendon strain. They found that cell nuclei did deform during tendon stretching, with a weak but significant correlation between the amount of local tissue strain and nucleus deformation in the lengthwise direction. The findings suggest that nucleus deformation occurs in tendons under tension and may contribute to how tendon cells detect and respond to mechanical loading.

FUNCTIONAL ANATOMY OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER COMPRESSIVE LOADING QUANTITATIVE ASPECTS OF GLOBAL, LOCAL AND ZONAL REACTIONS OF THE COLLAGENOUS NETWORK WITH RESPECT TO THE SURFACE INTEGRITY.

DOI: 10.1053/joca.2001.0484 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:04:28
This study investigated how articular cartilage's collagen network responds to compressive loading, with particular focus on the role of the superficial tangential zone. The researchers used 380 cylindrical cartilage samples from bovine femoral heads, subjecting them to different loading pressures (0.42 or 0.98 MPa) for 20 minutes, with some samples having their tangential zone removed, then analyzed the collagen fiber architecture using scanning electron microscopy.

Key findings showed that compressive loading caused collagen fibers to bulge outward beyond the directly loaded area, with fiber crimping occurring under the load that spread to adjacent zones as loading increased - all changes were fully reversible. Removal of the tangential zone significantly impaired the cartilage's ability to distribute loads laterally, reducing the tissue volume involved in load transmission while increasing surface tensile strain by up to 20% with problematic strain concentration peaks.

The study demonstrates that the tangential and intermediate zones function as an integrated unit during load bearing, and that an intact superficial layer is crucial for proper load distribution and preventing excessive surface strain that could lead to cartilage damage.

STEADY PROGRESSION OF OSTEOARTHRITIC FEATURES IN THE CANINE GROOVE MODEL.

DOI: 10.1053/joca.2001.0507 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:04:20
This study evaluated the long-term progression of osteoarthritis (OA) in a canine "groove model" at 20 and 40 weeks after cartilage damage induction. Researchers created grooves in knee cartilage without damaging underlying bone, then forced increased joint loading for 20 weeks by immobilizing the opposite limb, followed by 20 weeks of normal loading. Biochemical and histological analysis showed steady progression of cartilage degeneration over time, with significant worsening in proteoglycan synthesis, content, and joint damage scores, while synovial inflammation remained mild and decreased over time. This model offers unique advantages for studying early OA and testing cartilage therapies since it creates progressive degeneration from a single trauma event without ongoing joint instability or significant inflammation that could interfere with treatment effects.

CELL AND NUCLEUS DEFORMATION IN COMPRESSED CHONDROCYTE-ALGINATE CONSTRUCTS: TEMPORAL CHANGES AND CALCULATION OF CELL MODULUS.

DOI: 10.1016/s0304-4165(02)00144-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:04:14
This study investigated how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) and their nuclei deform when compressed within alginate scaffolds, which are commonly used in cartilage tissue engineering. The researchers used confocal microscopy to observe cell shape changes in real-time during compression of chondrocyte-alginate constructs with different alginate concentrations (1.2% and 2%).

The key findings showed that compression caused cells to change from spherical to flattened ellipsoid shapes while maintaining constant volume, with the cell nucleus also deforming but recovering more quickly than the whole cell. In stiffer 2% alginate gels, cell deformation remained constant over 25 minutes while nuclear deformation decreased, whereas in softer 1.2% alginate gels, both cell and construct deformation reduced over 60 minutes due to the gel's viscoelastic properties.

By analyzing the relationship between construct deformation and cell recovery in the softer gels, the researchers calculated that individual chondrocytes have a Young's modulus of approximately 3 kPa, providing important biomechanical data for understanding how cartilage cells respond to mechanical loading.

CHRONIC CHANGES IN RABBIT RETRO-PATELLAR CARTILAGE AND SUBCHONDRAL BONE AFTER BLUNT IMPACT LOADING OF THE PATELLOFEMORAL JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/S0736-0266(01)00135-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:04:06
This study investigated the long-term effects of acute joint trauma on cartilage and bone tissue in a rabbit model of patellofemoral joint injury. Researchers applied a single blunt impact to the right patellofemoral joint of 49 rabbits and examined tissue changes at multiple time points up to 36 months post-impact, measuring cartilage mechanical properties, thickness, surface damage, and subchondral bone changes. The key findings showed that traumatized cartilage experienced persistent mechanical weakening (30% reduction in compressive strength by 4.5 months that remained constant), increased fluid permeability, progressive thinning (45% reduction by 36 months), and surface fissuring, while the underlying subchondral bone progressively thickened over time. The study suggests a potential relationship between cartilage deterioration and subchondral bone thickening following joint trauma, though the cause-and-effect mechanism remains unclear.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE INJURIES.

DOI: 10.1097/00003086-200209000-00004 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:04:00
This review paper aimed to classify articular cartilage injuries and examine their natural healing responses to guide treatment decisions. The authors categorized injuries into three classes based on tissue damage patterns: (1) chondral damage without visible surface disruption, (2) mechanical disruption limited to cartilage, and (3) disruption involving both cartilage and subchondral bone. The study found that joints can repair non-disruptive damage when protected from further injury, but mechanical disruption of cartilage alone rarely heals despite increased chondrocyte activity, while subchondral bone involvement stimulates repair that typically fails to restore normal cartilage properties. The authors emphasized that successful treatment must demonstrate superior long-term outcomes compared to natural healing, requiring surgeons to carefully classify injury types and understand their natural progression before selecting interventions.

IN SITU CHONDROCYTE DEFORMATION WITH PHYSIOLOGICAL COMPRESSION OF THE FELINE PATELLOFEMORAL JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(02)00424-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:03:53
This study aimed to measure how cartilage cells (chondrocytes) deform when knee joints experience normal physiological loading forces. The researchers applied realistic compression loads to intact feline patellofemoral joints (kneecap and thigh bone groove), then chemically preserved the tissue to analyze cell shape changes and cartilage strain patterns. The results showed that patellar and femoral groove cartilages have different baseline characteristics (thickness, cell shape, cell density) and respond differently to the same loading forces, with distinct patterns of cell deformation at various tissue depths. These findings suggest that mechanical loading significantly deforms cartilage cells during normal joint use, which may affect their biological activity and help explain why certain areas of the patellofemoral joint are more prone to developing osteoarthritis.

NEW INSIGHT INTO DEFORMATION-DEPENDENT HYDRAULIC PERMEABILITY OF GELS AND CARTILAGE, AND DYNAMIC BEHAVIOR OF AGAROSE GELS IN CONFINED COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(02)00437-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:03:46
This study investigated the mechanical properties and fluid flow behavior of agarose gels (2.0-14.8% concentration) under confined compression to better understand cartilage biomechanics. The researchers used equilibrium, creep, and dynamic compression tests, then applied biphasic modeling to determine hydraulic permeability and analyzed how gel stiffness varied with loading frequency (0.01-1.0 Hz). The key finding was a new mathematical relationship between intrinsic permeability and water content that accurately predicted deformation-dependent permeability changes across four orders of magnitude for both agarose gels and bovine cartilage. The study also showed that gel stiffness increased with both concentration and loading frequency, with important implications for understanding how cells respond to fluid flow in cartilage under dynamic loading conditions.

EXPERIMENTAL VERIFICATION OF THE ROLES OF INTRINSIC MATRIX VISCOELASTICITY AND TENSION-COMPRESSION NONLINEARITY IN THE BIPHASIC RESPONSE OF CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1115/1.1531656 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:03:40
This study aimed to experimentally validate a sophisticated biomechanical model (biphasic-CLE-QLV) that incorporates both the intrinsic viscoelasticity of cartilage's solid matrix and its different mechanical behavior under tension versus compression. The researchers tested cartilage plugs from bovine shoulder joints using confined and unconfined compression tests at different strain rates, then used curve-fitting to determine material properties and validate model predictions. The biphasic-CLE-QLV model showed excellent agreement with experimental data across all test conditions (R² values ranging from 0.91-0.998), demonstrating that both tension-compression nonlinearity and intrinsic viscoelasticity are essential for accurately predicting cartilage mechanical behavior. These findings suggest that incorporating these two key features into cartilage models may be crucial for understanding how cartilage bears loads during normal joint function.

HYPOTHESIS OF REGULATION OF HIP JOINT CARTILAGE ACTIVITY BY MECHANICAL LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/s0306-9877(03)00099-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:03:34
This study proposes a hypothesis about how mechanical forces regulate cartilage cell activity in the hip joint. The researchers suggest that when the hip joint experiences contact stress during loading, it deforms the cartilage tissue, which in turn deforms the cartilage cells (chondrocytes) within it. The main finding is a theoretical framework proposing that this mechanical deformation of chondrocytes serves as the primary mechanism controlling their protein synthesis activity and overall cartilage metabolism. This work provides a conceptual foundation for understanding how physical loading influences cartilage health and function in the hip joint.

PROTEOGLYCAN METABOLISM AND VIABILITY OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPLANTS AS MODULATED BY THE FREQUENCY OF INTERMITTENT LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/s1063-4584(03)00007-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:03:28
This study investigated how different frequencies of intermittent mechanical loading affect cartilage metabolism and cell survival in bovine cartilage explants. Researchers applied cyclic loads at 0.1, 0.5, or 1.0 Hz frequencies with varying loading and rest periods over 6 days, then measured proteoglycan synthesis, loss, and chondrocyte viability across different cartilage zones. The key findings showed that loading frequency independently regulated both proteoglycan synthesis and the loss of existing proteoglycans in a non-linear manner, while chondrocytes in the superficial zone experienced dramatic cell death regardless of the specific frequency used. These results demonstrate that mechanical loading frequency is a critical factor controlling cartilage metabolism and suggest that mechanical stress can transform healthy cartilage into a degenerative, osteoarthritis-like state in laboratory models.

TOWARD AN MRI-BASED METHOD TO MEASURE NON-UNIFORM CARTILAGE DEFORMATION: AN MRI-CYCLIC LOADING APPARATUS SYSTEM AND STEADY-STATE CYCLIC DISPLACEMENT OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER COMPRESSIVE LOADING.

DOI: 10.1115/1.1560141 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:03:22
This study aimed to develop an MRI-compatible loading system to measure three-dimensional cartilage deformation and determine the loading conditions needed for steady-state cartilage behavior. The researchers designed a pneumatic apparatus that could apply repeatable 400N compressive loads inside an MRI scanner, then tested it on bovine cartilage samples under different cyclic loading protocols. The system successfully demonstrated high load repeatability (1.8% standard deviation) and could acquire MRI images of both undeformed and deformed states in phantom materials. Key findings showed that bovine cartilage required 27-49 loading cycles to reach steady-state deformation (depending on cycle duration), with final displacements remaining highly consistent within ±7.42 micrometers, establishing the technical foundation for future 3D cartilage deformation studies using MRI.

MECHANICAL REGULATION OF MITOGEN-ACTIVATED PROTEIN KINASE SIGNALING IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1074/jbc.M305107200 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:03:15
This study investigated how mechanical forces activate cellular signaling pathways in cartilage, specifically examining mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) responses to compression. The researchers applied mechanical compression to intact cartilage samples and measured the phosphorylation (activation) of three key MAPK signaling proteins—ERK1/2, p38 MAPK, and SEK1—at various time points from 10 minutes to 24 hours. They found that mechanical compression alone was sufficient to activate all three MAPK pathways, but each showed distinct activation patterns: ERK1/2 had an early peak followed by sustained activation, p38 MAPK showed only brief early activation, and SEK1 displayed delayed but strong activation peaking at 1 hour. These findings demonstrate that cartilage cells use multiple, simultaneously active signaling pathways with different timing patterns to sense and respond to mechanical loading, providing important insights into how cartilage maintains itself under normal joint forces.

PROPAGATION OF SURFACE FISSURES IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN RESPONSE TO CYCLIC LOADING IN VITRO.

DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2003.07.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:03:08
This study investigated whether surface fissures in articular cartilage can grow larger when subjected to repeated mechanical loading, which could help explain how joint overuse leads to osteoarthritis. The researchers used bovine cartilage specimens, first created surface damage by compression testing, then applied cyclic loading at 40% of the failure strength while measuring fissure dimensions over time using image analysis. The key finding was that cyclic loading caused cartilage fissures to dramatically increase in both length (353%) and width (360%), with most growth occurring within the first few hundred loading cycles, though fissure depth remained unchanged. The authors conclude that mechanical loading can cause surface fissures to propagate and temporarily open into wide "wounds," which in living joints could potentially trigger degenerative processes leading to osteoarthritis.

DYNAMIC STEREOMETRY OF THE TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT.

DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0544.2003.233.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:03:01
This study aimed to analyze temporomandibular joint (TMJ) biomechanics by combining 3D anatomical reconstructions with jaw movement recordings to understand how joint surfaces relate during function. The researchers used dynamic stereometry to measure condyle-fossa distances and stress-field movements during various jaw activities including chewing, biting, and mandibular movements.

Key findings showed that condyle-fossa distances were consistently smaller during closing versus opening, on the balancing side versus working side, and when chewing hard versus soft foods, indicating that both TMJ condyles experience loading during chewing with greater forces on the balancing side. The technique revealed that stress-fields translate in multiple directions during jaw movements, with the lateral area of the TMJ disk experiencing more frequent shear stresses than the medial area, which may contribute to cartilage wear and degenerative changes.

SPORTS, JOINT INJURY, AND POSTTRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.2519/jospt.2003.33.10.578 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:02:54
This review examines the relationship between sports participation, joint injuries, and the development of posttraumatic osteoarthritis. The authors analyzed existing literature on how different types of sports activities affect joint health and injury risk factors. The study found that low-impact sports with minimal torsional loading do not increase osteoarthritis risk in people with normal joints, while high-impact sports with significant joint loading substantially increase the risk of injury and subsequent joint degeneration. The authors conclude that individuals with pre-existing joint problems, previous injuries, or neuromuscular deficits face higher injury risks during athletics and should undergo comprehensive joint and muscle evaluation before participating in vigorous sports activities.

THE ROLE OF CELL SEEDING DENSITY AND NUTRIENT SUPPLY FOR ARTICULAR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING WITH DEFORMATIONAL LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2003.08.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:02:49
This study investigated how mechanical loading, cell density, and nutrient conditions affect the development of engineered cartilage tissue using chondrocyte-seeded agarose hydrogels. The researchers cultured constructs under free-swelling conditions or intermittent deformational loading (10% deformation, 1 Hz) for two months, testing different cell seeding densities (10 vs 60 million cells/ml) and serum concentrations (10% vs 20% FBS) with enhanced nutrient supply. Under optimal conditions (high cell density, 20% serum, adequate nutrient supply), dynamically loaded constructs showed more than 2-fold increases in mechanical properties compared to controls, achieving approximately 75% and 25% of native tissue values for Young's modulus and dynamic modulus, respectively. Importantly, the mechanical improvements occurred without changes in total proteoglycan or collagen content, suggesting that loading enhances tissue properties through improved structural organization rather than increased matrix quantity.

DEFORMATION OF CHONDROCYTES IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER COMPRESSIVE LOAD: A MORPHOLOGICAL STUDY.

DOI: 10.1159/000074629 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:02:42
This study aimed to examine how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) deform when articular cartilage is compressed and to understand how this relates to changes in the surrounding collagen matrix. The researchers applied different levels of static compression (high/low force, long/short duration) to intact rabbit knee joints, then used cryopreservation to freeze the tissue while still under load, allowing them to observe cell deformation using scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that chondrocytes undergo significant shape changes that depend on both the magnitude and duration of applied load, with the greatest deformation occurring in the transitional and upper radial zones of the cartilage rather than the surface layer. Importantly, the degree of chondrocyte deformation was closely linked to deformation of the surrounding collagen matrix, suggesting that mechanical forces are effectively transmitted from the tissue level down to individual cells.

SYSTEM-ENGINEERED CARTILAGE USING POLY(N-ISOPROPYLACRYLAMIDE)-GRAFTED GELATIN AS IN SITU-FORMABLE SCAFFOLD: IN VIVO PERFORMANCE.

DOI: 10.1089/10763270360728044 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:02:35
This study evaluated the in vivo performance of tissue-engineered cartilage made with a temperature-sensitive polymer scaffold (poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-grafted gelatin) to identify optimal transplantation conditions for cartilage repair. The researchers tested different covering materials (periosteum or collagen film) and compared fresh versus 2-week precultured engineered tissue in animal models, evaluating outcomes at 5 weeks through visual and microscopic examination. The main findings showed that preculturing the engineered tissue for 2 weeks before transplantation prevented leakage, minimized surface deformation, and resulted in better tissue maturity compared to fresh transplants. The study concluded that using precultured tissue represents a promising approach for cartilage repair that warrants further long-term investigation.

NONLINEAR TENSILE PROPERTIES OF BOVINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND THEIR VARIATION WITH AGE AND DEPTH.

DOI: 10.1115/1.1688771 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:02:29
This study investigated how the tensile properties of articular cartilage change with tissue stretching, animal age, and depth from the surface. The researchers performed uniaxial tension tests on fresh bovine cartilage samples from animals aged 6 months to 6 years, using extended equilibration periods (5-10 hours) to achieve true equilibrium measurements.

Key findings showed that both equilibrium and transient tensile modulus increased significantly with age, rising from 0-15 MPa at equilibrium and 10-28 MPa transiently, likely due to increased collagen cross-linking with maturation. The tensile modulus also increased nonlinearly with tissue stretch (0-10% strain), though this increase was an order of magnitude lower than what would be needed to fully explain cartilage's nonlinear compressive behavior.

The study highlights the importance of using sufficiently long test periods to avoid overestimating cartilage stiffness, and suggests that biaxial testing may be needed to better understand the relationship between tensile and compressive properties.

A FINITE ELEMENT FORMULATION AND PROGRAM TO STUDY TRANSIENT SWELLING AND LOAD-CARRIAGE IN HEALTHY AND DEGENERATE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1080/10255840410001672185 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:02:22
This study aimed to develop a computational model to understand how healthy and degenerate cartilage responds to mechanical loading and chemical changes over time. The researchers extended traditional poroelastic theory to include swelling effects and created a specialized finite element computer program (U-PI-C) using a new hybrid element to simulate the coupled mechanical and chemical behavior of cartilage. The model revealed that strain-dependent permeability acts as a protective mechanism by controlling how quickly fluid stresses are transferred to the cartilage matrix during early loading phases. Additionally, the results showed that swelling pressure serves a crucial protective role by preventing excessive deformation of the cartilage matrix structure.

INCONGRUITY VERSUS INSTABILITY IN THE ETIOLOGY OF POSTTRAUMATIC ARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1097/01.blo.0000131639.89143.26 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:02:16
This review study aimed to compare the relative contributions of joint incongruity versus instability in causing posttraumatic arthritis. The authors analyzed existing clinical and basic science evidence, supplemented by preliminary data from a new dynamic ankle testing device that measures contact loads and loading rates throughout complete motion cycles. Clinical evidence showed that while the hip, knee, and ankle joints tolerate surface incongruity differently, all three joints poorly tolerate instability. The findings suggest that instability may be more important than incongruity in posttraumatic arthritis development, and that dynamic testing methods are needed to capture the transient stress elevations and abnormal loading patterns that static tests miss.

IN VITRO PHYSICAL STIMULATION OF TISSUE-ENGINEERED AND NATIVE CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1385/1-59259-810-2:325 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:02:11
This study examines the use of physical stimulation to improve tissue-engineered cartilage development in laboratory settings. The researchers employed specialized bioreactors that can apply mechanical deformation and fluid-induced forces to cartilage constructs, mimicking the physical environment that native cartilage experiences in the body. The work was motivated by previous observations that appropriate mechanical signals enhance cartilage metabolism, while excessive loading can be harmful. The study addresses key challenges in cartilage tissue engineering, particularly the difficulty of achieving mechanical properties comparable to native cartilage when constructs are grown under standard free-swelling culture conditions.

CYCLIC LOADING CAN DENATURE TYPE II COLLAGEN IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1080/03008200490514121 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:02:06
This study investigated whether repetitive mechanical loading directly causes collagen damage in cartilage, which could help explain the link between repetitive loading and osteoarthritis development. The researchers subjected 80 bovine cartilage specimens to 3,600 cycles of compressive loading at varying stress levels (3.5-14 MPa) and measured collagen denaturation using antibody-based assays. The results showed that cyclic loading caused immediate, dose-dependent increases in type II collagen denaturation, rising from 2% in unloaded controls to 7.5% at the highest loading stress. Importantly, this denaturation occurred regardless of whether proteases or living cells were present, indicating that mechanical forces alone can directly damage the collagen network in cartilage.

SERUM CONCENTRATION OF CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN (COMP) IS SENSITIVE TO PHYSIOLOGICAL CYCLIC LOADING IN HEALTHY ADULTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2004.09.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:02:00
This study investigated whether a 30-minute walking exercise would increase serum levels of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), a biomarker of cartilage metabolism, in healthy adults. The researchers collected blood samples from 10 physically active participants at multiple time points before, immediately after, and up to 5.5 hours following a moderate walking exercise, comparing these results to a separate resting day protocol using ELISA to measure COMP concentrations.

The study found that even moderate walking significantly affected serum COMP levels, with an immediate 9.7% increase right after exercise and a second 7.0% increase occurring 5.5 hours post-exercise, while resting conditions showed decreasing COMP levels over time. These findings suggest that COMP fragments can diffuse from cartilage into blood within 30 minutes or less, and indicate a delayed metabolic response occurring 5-6 hours after mechanical loading of joint cartilage.

IN VIVO CARTILAGE DEFORMATION AFTER DIFFERENT TYPES OF ACTIVITY AND ITS DEPENDENCE ON PHYSICAL TRAINING STATUS.

DOI: 10.1136/ard.2004.022400 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:01:53
This study aimed to measure how articular cartilage deforms during different physical activities and determine whether athletic training affects cartilage mechanical properties in living humans. The researchers used MRI and 3D image analysis to measure cartilage volume changes before and after various activities (knee bends, squatting, walking, running, cycling) in the patella and femorotibial joint, comparing responses between professional athletes and untrained individuals.

Patellar cartilage showed activity-dependent deformation ranging from -2.8% (walking) to -5.9% (knee bends), with the deformation pattern matching the range of motion for each activity, while tibial cartilage deformed significantly only during high-impact loading (-7%). Importantly, no differences in cartilage deformation were found between professional weight lifters, sprinters, and untrained controls, suggesting that adult human cartilage mechanical properties are not significantly altered by athletic training.

INFLUENCE OF STRESS RATE ON WATER LOSS, MATRIX DEFORMATION AND CHONDROCYTE VIABILITY IN IMPACTED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2004.04.016 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:01:46
This study investigated how different rates of impact loading affect cartilage damage during joint trauma by testing bovine cartilage samples under various stress rates (25-1000 MPa/s) and magnitudes (10-40 MPa) using confined compression testing. The researchers measured water loss, cell death, tissue stiffness, and deformation to understand the cartilage response to traumatic loading conditions. Key findings showed that higher stress magnitudes caused more water loss and deeper cell death, while faster loading rates were actually protective, reducing both water loss and the depth of cell death in the superficial cartilage layer. The study also revealed that the location and direction of impact matters significantly, as impacts on the deeper cartilage zones caused less damage compared to impacts on the joint surface, highlighting the importance of cartilage's layered structure in determining injury patterns.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE ADJACENT TO EXPERIMENTAL DEFECTS IS SUBJECT TO ATYPICAL STRAINS.

DOI: 10.1097/01.blo.0000145990.58146.3d · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:01:39
This study investigated whether cartilage surrounding experimental defects experiences abnormal mechanical stress during joint loading. The researchers created 2.5-mm drill holes in rabbit knee joints, applied simulated muscle forces, then used freeze-fixation and microscopy to analyze cartilage deformation around the defects. The key findings showed that cartilage at defect edges became abnormally flattened and folded inward, while opposing cartilage surfaces intruded into the defect space during loading. These results indicate that cartilage repair models using drill holes may not accurately represent natural healing conditions, and the abnormal strains around defect edges likely contribute to progressive cartilage breakdown in adjacent tissue.

A FIBRIL-REINFORCED POROVISCOELASTIC SWELLING MODEL FOR ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2004.07.003 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:01:33
This study aimed to develop a comprehensive computational model that could simultaneously explain cartilage behavior across all standard mechanical tests by incorporating both swelling properties and collagen fiber structure. The researchers extended their existing fibril-reinforced poroviscoelastic finite element model to include biphasic swelling effects, creating a new fibril-reinforced poroviscoelastic swelling (FPVES) model that accounts for proteoglycan-induced osmotic swelling and anisotropic collagen network properties. The FPVES model successfully predicted cartilage responses across multiple test conditions including swelling, confined compression, indentation, and unconfined compression tests - something previous models could not achieve simultaneously. This unified model provides a tool to analyze how the collagen network and swelling properties interact in cartilage mechanics.

HETEROGENEOUS THREE-DIMENSIONAL STRAIN FIELDS DURING UNCONFINED CYCLIC COMPRESSION IN BOVINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.orthres.2005.03.022.1100230622 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:01:27
This study aimed to characterize the complex three-dimensional strain patterns that occur throughout articular cartilage during mechanical loading using a novel imaging technique. The researchers developed a Cartilage Deformation by Tag Registration (CDTR) method combining specialized MRI, custom cyclic loading equipment, and image processing to measure strains in bovine cartilage explants under two physiologically relevant compression levels (1.29 and 2.57 MPa). Despite applying simple uniaxial compression, the cartilage exhibited highly heterogeneous, depth-dependent strain patterns: compressive strains were highest at the articular surface (11%), tensile strains decreased linearly with depth from the surface (maximum 7%), and shear strains were largest at the cartilage-bone interface (2%). These findings demonstrate that cartilage behaves as a complex, non-isotropic material with strain patterns that vary significantly throughout its thickness, providing important data for developing better constitutive models and understanding the mechanical environment experienced by cartilage cells.

ULTRASONIC MEASUREMENT OF DEPTH-DEPENDENT TRANSIENT BEHAVIORS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2004.08.020 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:01:20
This study aimed to develop an ultrasound method for measuring how different layers of articular cartilage deform over time during compression and stress-relaxation. The researchers used a 50 MHz ultrasound transducer with cross-correlation tracking to monitor depth-dependent movements in bovine cartilage samples (n=8) and sponge phantoms (n=10) during mechanical testing. The key finding was that cartilage tissue continued to move internally during the stress-relaxation phase after compression ended, with tissue displacements at various depths (1/4, 1/2, and 3/4 thickness) reducing by approximately 50% from peak values as the tissue reached equilibrium—a behavior not observed in the control sponge phantoms. This ultrasound technique shows promise as a non-destructive tool for evaluating the time-dependent mechanical behavior of cartilage and other soft tissues under loading.

COLLAGEN BIOSYNTHESIS OF MECHANICALLY LOADED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2005.06.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:01:13
This study investigated how different mechanical loading conditions affect collagen production in bovine cartilage tissue samples. The researchers applied cyclic compression at various intensities (0.1-1.0 MPa), frequencies (0.5 Hz), and durations (1-6 days) to cartilage explants, then measured collagen synthesis using radioactive proline incorporation over the final 18 hours. The key finding was that mechanical loading consistently reduced the relative rate of collagen synthesis compared to unloaded controls, regardless of the specific loading parameters used. The authors conclude that normal chondrocytes tightly regulate collagen production to maintain tissue integrity, and suggest that their loading protocols may not adequately simulate the conditions that lead to increased collagen synthesis seen in osteoarthritic cartilage.

GENE EXPRESSION PROFILE OF MECHANICALLY IMPACTED BOVINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPLANTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.orthres.2005.01.016 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:01:08
This study investigated how acute mechanical trauma affects gene expression in articular cartilage using a bovine model. The researchers used bovine cartilage explants (without underlying bone) subjected to blunt trauma and analyzed gene expression changes using cDNA microarray technology at 3 hours post-impact. They found that 19 genes were differentially expressed following trauma, with 14 genes up-regulated (including cytokine/chemokine receptors, enzymes, and signaling molecules) and 5 genes down-regulated (primarily adhesion molecules and apoptosis-related genes). These findings provide early molecular evidence of how cartilage responds to mechanical injury and demonstrate the utility of microarray analysis for studying cartilage degradation pathways.

THE CANINE 'GROOVE' MODEL OF OSTEOARTHRITIS IS MORE THAN SIMPLY THE EXPRESSION OF SURGICALLY APPLIED DAMAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2004.07.009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:01:03
This study aimed to determine whether the cartilage degeneration observed in the canine "groove" model of osteoarthritis represents direct surgical damage or progressive disease features. The researchers created cartilage grooves in the knee joints of 20 female beagle dogs, followed by forced loading, and evaluated osteoarthritic changes at either 3 or 10 weeks post-surgery using measures of synovial inflammation, cartilage damage, and matrix turnover. The key finding was that osteoarthritic features (including altered proteoglycan synthesis, release, and content) were present at 10 weeks but not at 3 weeks after surgery. This demonstrates that the groove model produces genuine progressive osteoarthritis rather than simply reflecting the initial surgical trauma, validating its use as a model for human osteoarthritis research.

ERROR OPTIMIZATION OF A THREE-DIMENSIONAL MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING TAGGING-BASED CARTILAGE DEFORMATION TECHNIQUE.

DOI: 10.1002/mrm.20669 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:00:56
This study aimed to optimize experimental parameters for a new MRI-based technique that measures three-dimensional strain (deformation) in articular cartilage under compression. The researchers used direct experiments and Monte Carlo simulations to evaluate how four key variables—spatial resolution, tag line spacing, applied strain level, and number of control points in the mathematical model—affected measurement accuracy and precision. The results showed that the technique had no significant systematic error (bias), and measurement precision improved with higher image resolution and wider tag line spacing but was unaffected by the amount of strain applied. The optimal parameters that minimized measurement error were identified as: spatial resolution of 0.05 × 0.05 mm², tag line spacing of 2.0 mm, and 6 control points, achieving a precision of 0.41% strain.

HETEROGENEITY IN PATELLOFEMORAL CARTILAGE ADAPTATION TO ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT TRANSECTION; CHONDROCYTE SHAPE AND DEFORMATION WITH COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2005.08.016 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:00:51
This study investigated how patellofemoral joint cartilage adapts differently to anterior cruciate ligament injury by examining chondrocyte (cartilage cell) changes in cats 16 weeks after ACL transection. The researchers applied physiological compression (9 MPa) to intact patella and femoral groove cartilages and used histomorphometry to measure chondrocyte shape, size, clustering, and volumetric fraction in both loaded and unloaded areas. The key finding was that patellar cartilage showed significant adaptation to ACL injury—becoming thicker with larger, more clustered chondrocytes and increased cell volume fraction—while femoral groove cartilage demonstrated minimal changes. The authors suggest that baseline differences in cartilage thickness and chondrocyte characteristics may predispose patellar cartilage to greater adaptation following ACL injury compared to femoral cartilage.

ACTIVATION OF CHONDROCYTES CALCIUM SIGNALLING BY DYNAMIC COMPRESSION IS INDEPENDENT OF NUMBER OF CYCLES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2005.09.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:00:44
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects calcium signaling in cartilage cells (chondrocytes) to better understand how these cells respond to physical forces. The researchers cultured chondrocytes in gel-like constructs and applied cyclic compression at different intensities (1, 10, 100, or 300 cycles) while measuring calcium activity using fluorescent imaging.

The key finding was that even a single compression cycle significantly increased the percentage of cells showing calcium responses, with no additional benefit from more cycles up to 100. Interestingly, after 300 cycles, the calcium response returned to baseline levels, suggesting the cells may become desensitized to prolonged mechanical stimulation, and the enhanced calcium signaling lasted up to 5 minutes after compression stopped, indicating sustained cellular activation.

A NONLINEAR BIPHASIC VISCOHYPERELASTIC MODEL FOR ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2005.10.017 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:00:38
This study aimed to develop a mathematical model that captures both the nonlinear stress-strain behavior and time-dependent viscous properties of articular cartilage under large deformations. The researchers created a biphasic viscohyperelastic model that combines the viscous effects of the proteoglycan matrix with nonlinear elastic behavior, and implemented it using computational algorithms for testing against experimental data. The model showed excellent agreement with published experimental results, achieving correlation coefficients (R²) ranging from 0.914 to 0.995 across different loading conditions including unconfined compression, indentation, and confined compression stress relaxation tests. This constitutive equation provides a foundation for more comprehensive fiber-reinforced models of cartilage and could improve our understanding of cartilage mechanics in health and disease.

CARTILAGE ANLAGEN ADAPT IN RESPONSE TO STATIC DEFORMATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2005.10.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:00:32
This study investigated how cartilage anlagen (early cartilage structures that develop into bones) respond to mechanical loading during clubfoot treatment in infants. The researchers used serial MRI imaging to observe changes in foot cartilage during manipulation and corrective casting treatment. They found two key effects: the expected repositioning of hindfoot cartilage structures, and a previously unrecognized immediate shape change in the cartilage that appeared to accelerate both cartilage growth and bone formation. These findings challenge current theories by suggesting that static stresses from casting, rather than dynamic intermittent loading, can actually enhance cartilage development and growth.

ANALYSIS OF THE MECHANICAL BEHAVIOR OF CHONDROCYTES IN UNCONFINED COMPRESSION TESTS FOR CYCLIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2005.01.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:00:27
This study aimed to investigate how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) deform during cyclic loading, which is important for understanding how mechanical forces influence cell behavior and cartilage health. The researchers used a finite element computer model to simulate unconfined compression tests, treating both the cells and surrounding cartilage matrix as biphasic materials, and analyzed cell deformation at different depths (surface, center, bottom) under various loading conditions (two frequencies and two amplitudes). The key findings showed that chondrocytes deform differently depending on their location within the cartilage, with these location-dependent differences being influenced by the magnitude of applied load, while loading frequency (0.02 vs 0.1 Hz) had minimal effect on cell deformation patterns. The results suggest that the biological responses of chondrocytes to mechanical loading likely vary based on both their position within cartilage and the intensity of applied forces.

A COMPOSITION-BASED CARTILAGE MODEL FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF COMPOSITIONAL CHANGES DURING CARTILAGE DAMAGE AND ADAPTATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2005.12.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:00:20
This study aimed to develop a computational model that links cartilage tissue composition directly to its mechanical properties, enabling researchers to study how compositional changes during osteoarthritis affect cartilage mechanics. The researchers combined their existing fibril-reinforced poroviscoelastic swelling model with a composition-based model, where all mechanical properties (including permeability) are determined by local amounts of proteoglycans, collagens, and tissue structure. The model successfully predicted cartilage behavior across multiple mechanical tests (confined compression, unconfined compression, indentation, and swelling tests) using only compositional data as input. This advancement allows researchers to assess the mechanical consequences of osteoarthritis-related compositional changes without making additional assumptions, representing a significant step forward in quantitative osteoarthritis research.

BIOMECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION AND IN VITRO MECHANICAL INJURY OF ELDERLY HUMAN FEMORAL HEAD CARTILAGE: COMPARISON TO ADULT BOVINE HUMERAL HEAD CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2005.12.011 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:00:14
This study aimed to develop a new in vitro injury model using elderly human femoral head cartilage and compare it to an established bovine cartilage model to better understand post-traumatic osteoarthritis development. The researchers characterized mechanical properties through confined and unconfined compression testing, analyzed biochemical composition, and assessed injury responses by applying single injurious loads at different strain rates and stress levels while measuring tissue cracking and cell death. Key findings showed that elderly human cartilage had higher stiffness (elastic and Young's moduli) and lower permeability compared to adult bovine cartilage, with more anisotropic deformation patterns. Despite these mechanical differences, both cartilage types showed similar acute damage responses to injurious loading (tissue cracking and cell death at 14 MPa stress), suggesting that animal models remain clinically relevant for studying cartilage injury mechanisms.

THE MECHANICAL BEHAVIOUR OF CHONDROCYTES PREDICTED WITH A MICRO-STRUCTURAL MODEL OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-006-0016-3 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:00:08
This study aimed to predict how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) deform under mechanical loading using a more realistic model of articular cartilage that accounts for its natural structural variations across tissue depth. The researchers developed a transversely isotropic, inhomogeneous model that incorporated the actual microstructural features of cartilage, including depth-dependent collagen fiber orientation and cell distribution, then simulated indentation and unconfined compression tests with 15% compression. The model predicted that chondrocytes experience non-uniform deformation across cartilage depth, with cells in the superficial zone deforming much more (32-43% height reduction) than those in deeper zones (11-29% reduction), which aligns well with experimental observations. This advanced modeling approach represents a significant improvement over previous homogeneous models and provides more accurate predictions of cellular mechanical environments that influence cartilage health and metabolism.

A MECHANO-CHEMICAL MODEL FOR THE PASSIVE SWELLING RESPONSE OF AN ISOLATED CHONDRON UNDER OSMOTIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-006-0026-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 19:00:01
This study developed a theoretical model to understand how chondrons (cartilage cells and their surrounding pericellular matrix) respond to changes in salt concentration. The researchers used triphasic mixture theory to model the pericellular matrix and treated the chondrocyte as an ideal osmometer, assuming the cell membrane only allows water passage while the chondron boundary permits both water and ion movement. The model successfully predicted how both the cell and entire chondron deform under different osmotic conditions (high and low salt concentrations). This modeling approach will help researchers determine the fixed charge density of the pericellular matrix and better understand its mechanical properties when combined with experimental osmotic loading tests.

TREATMENT WITH THE NON-IONIC SURFACTANT POLOXAMER P188 REDUCES DNA FRAGMENTATION IN CELLS FROM BOVINE CHONDRAL EXPLANTS EXPOSED TO INJURIOUS UNCONFINED COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-006-0024-3 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:59:55
This study investigated whether poloxamer P188 (a non-ionic surfactant) could provide long-term protection to cartilage cells following traumatic joint injury. The researchers subjected bovine cartilage samples to high mechanical compression (25 MPa) to simulate joint trauma, then treated half with P188 for 24 hours and measured DNA fragmentation (a marker of cell death) at 1 hour, 4 days, and 7 days post-injury using TUNEL staining. P188 treatment reduced DNA fragmentation by approximately 45% at both 4 and 7 days after injury compared to untreated samples. These findings suggest that early P188 intervention can provide sustained protection to injured cartilage cells by repairing damaged cell membranes, potentially offering a therapeutic approach to prevent post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE MR IMAGING AND THICKNESS MAPPING OF A LOADED KNEE JOINT BEFORE AND AFTER MENISCECTOMY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2006.01.011 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:59:49
This study aimed to develop and validate an MRI technique for measuring cartilage deformation in loaded knee joints, then apply it to compare cartilage strain patterns before and after meniscectomy. The researchers used a 4.7T MRI scanner with a custom loading device to compress four sheep knees at 1.5 times body weight for 2 hours, creating 3D cartilage thickness maps using gradient echo imaging and comparing the results to micro-CT for validation.

Following meniscectomy, the contact area decreased by 60% and maximum cartilage deformation increased by 13%, with abnormal strain patterns developing—areas of high strain correlated with locations known to develop cartilage damage, while areas of low strain matched sites of future bone spur formation. This technique demonstrates that meniscectomy creates harmful mechanical changes in cartilage loading that may help explain the development of osteoarthritis after meniscal surgery.

MECHANO-ACTIVE SCAFFOLD DESIGN BASED ON MICROPOROUS POLY(L-LACTIDE-CO-EPSILON-CAPROLACTONE) FOR ARTICULAR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING: DEPENDENCE OF POROSITY ON COMPRESSION FORCE-APPLIED MECHANICAL BEHAVIORS.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.2006.12.449 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:59:42
This study aimed to identify optimal porosity levels for mechano-active scaffolds made from poly(L-lactide-co-epsilon-caprolactone) (PLCL) for articular cartilage tissue engineering applications. The researchers tested PLCL scaffolds with porosities ranging from 71-86% using compression/unloading tests and stress relaxation tests, comparing their mechanical behavior to native rabbit articular cartilage. The key finding was that scaffolds with lower porosity exhibited mechanical properties more similar to natural cartilage tissue. The authors concluded that PLCL scaffolds with 71% porosity showed the most promising biomechanical characteristics for cartilage tissue engineering, as they best mimicked the compression response and recovery behavior of native cartilage.

THE EFFECTS OF EXERCISE ON HUMAN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2006.00546.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:59:37
This review examined how exercise affects human articular cartilage by analyzing existing research using quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques to measure cartilage morphology and composition in living humans. The authors investigated both short-term deformational responses to loading and long-term adaptive changes from different activity levels. Key findings showed that human cartilage undergoes minimal deformation during normal activities and recovers within 90 minutes, with deformation decreasing with age but remaining unaffected by sex or training status. While cartilage becomes thinner under reduced loading conditions (immobilization, paraplegia), it does not thicken in response to increased loading in elite athletes, suggesting limited adaptive capacity possibly due to strong genetic influences on cartilage structure.

SENSITIVITIES OF MEDIAL MENISCAL MOTION AND DEFORMATION TO MATERIAL PROPERTIES OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE, MENISCUS AND MENISCAL ATTACHMENTS USING DESIGN OF EXPERIMENTS METHODS.

DOI: 10.1115/1.2191077 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:59:31
This study aimed to determine which material properties most significantly affect the accuracy of finite element models (FEMs) predicting meniscal motion and deformation in ACL-deficient knees under anterior tibial loading. The researchers used Taguchi orthogonal arrays and central composite design to systematically test different material property combinations for cartilage, meniscus, and meniscal attachments, then compared model predictions to experimental data. The study found that three material properties were most critical for model accuracy: the initial strain of meniscal horn attachments, the stiffness of peripheral attachments, and the ratio of meniscal stiffness in circumferential versus transverse directions. The optimal values identified were -5% initial strain, 5.6 MPa peripheral attachment stiffness, and a 20:1 circumferential-to-transverse stiffness ratio, suggesting future modeling efforts should prioritize accurate characterization of these specific properties.

A DROP TOWER FOR CONTROLLED IMPACT TESTING OF BIOLOGICAL TISSUES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2006.06.002 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:59:24
This study aimed to develop and validate a drop tower device for controlled impact testing of small biological tissue samples, particularly articular cartilage, to better understand impact damage mechanics and cellular responses. The researchers designed an instrumented system that controls impact severity through variable impactor masses and drop heights, while recording force and deceleration data at 50,000 samples per second using force transducers and accelerometers. Validation testing on rubber washers demonstrated excellent repeatability with coefficients of variation below 8% for key mechanical parameters. Initial cartilage testing revealed that human femoral head cartilage had a peak dynamic modulus of 59 MPa at 916 s⁻¹ strain rate, while bovine cartilage showed higher values of 130 MPa at 3380 s⁻¹, demonstrating the device's capability to measure tissue mechanical properties under high-rate loading conditions.

THE ROLE OF THE SURFACE AMORPHOUS LAYER OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN JOINT LUBRICATION.

DOI: 10.1243/09544119JEIM122 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:59:18
This study investigated whether the surface amorphous layer (SAL) of articular cartilage contributes to joint lubrication. The researchers used multiple imaging and analytical techniques to characterize the SAL's composition, developed a method to remove it without damaging underlying cartilage, and conducted friction tests comparing cartilage with and without the SAL. They found that the original SAL contained equal amounts of glycosaminoglycans, proteins, and lipids, but removing it did not change friction coefficients because the layer regenerated during testing through mechanical loading. The regenerated SAL had a different composition (lipids and sulfated glycosaminoglycans without detectable protein), suggesting that cartilage can mechanically replenish its surface layer by moving lubricating molecules through the tissue matrix during deformation.

THE GENERALIZED TRIPHASIC CORRESPONDENCE PRINCIPLE FOR SIMULTANEOUS DETERMINATION OF THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES AND PROTEOGLYCAN CONTENT OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE BY INDENTATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2006.11.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:59:12
This study aimed to develop a simplified mathematical approach to simultaneously determine the mechanical properties and proteoglycan content of articular cartilage using indentation testing. The researchers established a "generalized correspondence principle" that treats charged-hydrated cartilage tissue as an equivalent elastic material without charge, making the complex triphasic mixture theory more practically applicable. They derived explicit formulas linking mechanical properties to intrinsic elastic moduli, fixed charge density, and ion concentration, then validated this approach using indentation creep tests on bovine cartilage. The method successfully determined proteoglycan content with excellent accuracy compared to biochemical assays (linear regression slope of 1.034), demonstrating its potential as a non-destructive alternative for assessing cartilage composition and mechanical properties.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING SHOWED NO SIGNS OF OVERUSE OR PERMANENT INJURY TO THE LUMBAR SACRAL SPINE DURING A SPECIAL FORCES TRAINING COURSE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2007.01.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:59:06
This study investigated whether Navy SEALS preparatory training causes permanent spinal injury in recruits who carry heavy loads (up to 40% body weight) during intense 14-week training courses. The researchers used a prospective cohort design, performing MRI scans of the lumbar spine and knees in 10 soldiers before and after training to assess for structural damage including disc changes, joint pathology, and bone/soft tissue edema. The main findings showed no MRI evidence of spinal overuse or permanent injury after the demanding training period, with pre-existing minor disc bulges and Scheuermann's disease remaining unchanged. While knees showed some signs of overuse (prepatellar swelling, joint effusion), these findings suggest that well-conditioned individuals can complete extremely demanding physical training involving heavy spinal loading without sustaining permanent back injury detectable by MRI.

THE BENEFICIAL EFFECT OF DELAYED COMPRESSIVE LOADING ON TISSUE-ENGINEERED CARTILAGE CONSTRUCTS CULTURED WITH TGF-BETA3.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2007.03.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:59:00
This study investigated whether applying mechanical loading at different times during cartilage tissue engineering could improve the functional properties of constructs grown with TGF-β3. Researchers cultured bovine cartilage cells in agarose hydrogels with TGF-β3 for the first two weeks, then applied dynamic compressive loading either during or after the growth factor treatment period. The key finding was that mechanical loading applied concurrently with TGF-β3 dramatically reduced mechanical properties by 90%, while the same loading applied after TGF-β3 treatment was discontinued improved mechanical properties by 10% and achieved values similar to native cartilage. The results suggest that sequential application of growth factors followed by mechanical loading, rather than simultaneous treatment, may be optimal for functional cartilage tissue engineering.

FLUID PRESSURE DRIVEN FIBRIL REINFORCEMENT IN CREEP AND RELAXATION TESTS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2007.03.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:58:54
This study aimed to test whether a fibril-reinforced mathematical model could simultaneously predict both creep (constant load, increasing deformation) and relaxation (constant deformation, decreasing load) responses in articular cartilage using the same model parameters. The researchers performed multi-step loading experiments on bovine cartilage samples (n=8) that included both creep and relaxation phases, then used mathematical modeling to analyze the mechanical behavior.

The key finding was that accurate prediction of cartilage's mechanical response required considering the interaction between two factors: nonlinear collagen fibril reinforcement and fluid pressurization within the tissue - termed "fluid pressure driven fibril reinforcement." The experiments showed that relaxation occurred much faster than creep due to different fluid pressure patterns, and that load sharing between the tissue's components (collagen network, proteoglycan matrix, and fluid) differed between the two test types.

The model failed to accurately predict the strong experimental responses when either fibril reinforcement or fluid pressurization was excluded, demonstrating that both mechanisms and their interplay are essential for understanding cartilage biomechanics.

IN-SITU MEASUREMENTS OF CHONDROCYTE DEFORMATION UNDER TRANSIENT LOADING.

DOI: 10.22203/ecm.v013a11 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:58:46
This study aimed to investigate how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) deform when cartilage tissue is mechanically loaded, specifically examining the relationship between applied forces and cellular strain. The researchers used digital image analysis with a custom microscopy-based loading device to measure real-time strain in different regions of cartilage samples during compressive loading, complemented by finite element modeling to interpret the results.

The key finding was significant strain amplification within and around the cells, with compressive strains being nearly 7 times higher inside the cells and 5 times higher in the surrounding pericellular matrix compared to the broader extracellular matrix during loading. This strain amplification pattern persisted even after the tissue reached equilibrium, suggesting that chondrocytes experience much greater mechanical stress than previously thought when cartilage is loaded, which may be crucial for understanding how mechanical forces influence cartilage cell behavior and tissue maintenance.

APPLICATION OF A THREE-DIMENSIONAL POROELASTIC BEM TO MODELING THE BIPHASIC MECHANICS OF CELL-MATRIX INTERACTIONS IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE (REVISION).

DOI: 10.1016/j.cma.2006.08.020 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:58:40
This study developed a novel three-dimensional boundary element method (BEM) to model the time-dependent mechanical behavior of articular cartilage, which acts like a fluid-filled sponge under loading. The researchers used poroelastic theory in the mathematical Laplace domain to simulate both large-scale tissue responses and microscopic cell deformation during stress relaxation (the gradual reduction in stress when cartilage is compressed and held). They validated their computational model against established theoretical solutions for cartilage cylinders under confined compression and successfully demonstrated that the method can capture both tissue-level and cellular-level mechanical responses. This new modeling approach provides a promising tool for studying how mechanical forces affect cartilage cells within their natural tissue environment.

MECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE BONDS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2007.04.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:58:33
This study aimed to compare the mechanical properties of different methods for bonding articular cartilage surfaces, which is relevant for arthritis therapy techniques. The researchers tested three bonding approaches: suturing (with varying configurations), immediate chemical cross-linking using carbodiimide with pepsin or guanidine, and integrative repair through 14-day cultivation with or without testosterone, then measured the mechanical properties under tensile loading. Suturing provided the highest maximum load capacity and strain but lowest stiffness, creating elastic bonds that allow synovial fluid flow between cartilage surfaces, while chemical cross-linking with pepsin produced the highest stiffness but lowest failure force. The authors concluded that testosterone-stimulated integrative repair showed the most promising mechanical properties, while immediate chemical bonding could serve as a useful alternative to suturing for cartilage wound repair.

SOLUTE TRANSPORT IN CARTILAGE UNDERGOING CYCLIC DEFORMATION.

DOI: 10.1080/10255840701309163 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:58:26
This study aimed to investigate how cyclic mechanical loading affects the transport of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) through cartilage, which lacks blood vessels for nutrient delivery to cells. The researchers developed a mathematical model simulating IGF-I transport through a cylindrical cartilage plug undergoing cyclic compression at frequencies ranging from 0.001 to 1 Hz. The study found that dynamic loading can either enhance or reduce IGF-I transport in the short term (less than 20 minutes), depending on the loading frequency, but has negligible effects on transport over longer time periods. Importantly, the steady-state IGF-I concentration never exceeded the boundary concentration, contradicting previous predictions that suggested mechanical loading could create concentration enhancements beyond baseline levels.

TRANSPORT OF NEUTRAL SOLUTE IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: EFFECT OF MICROSTRUCTURE ANISOTROPY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2007.08.005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:58:20
This study aimed to develop a mathematical model explaining how the microstructural organization of cartilage affects the movement of large molecules through the tissue, particularly when cartilage is mechanically loaded. The researchers created a theoretical model that links diffusion patterns to the structural orientation of the cartilage network, then tested it against experimental observations of molecular transport in both unloaded and compressed cartilage samples.

The model successfully explained why large molecules move differently in different directions through cartilage (anisotropic diffusion) and predicted how this directional preference changes when cartilage is compressed. Key findings showed that diffusion patterns are location-specific within cartilage and depend on molecule size, with mechanical loading initially reducing transport in all directions but paradoxically enhancing sideways transport when compression becomes severe enough.

The research provides important insights for understanding how nutrients and waste products move through cartilage under normal and pathological loading conditions, which has implications for cartilage health and disease progression.

THE EFFECT OF APPLIED COMPRESSIVE LOADING ON TISSUE-ENGINEERED CARTILAGE CONSTRUCTS CULTURED WITH TGF-BETA3.

DOI: 10.1109/IEMBS.2006.259313 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:58:13
This study investigated how the timing of mechanical loading affects the development of tissue-engineered cartilage when combined with TGF-beta3 growth factor treatment. Researchers cultured chondrocyte-seeded agarose constructs using two different protocols: applying mechanical loading either during or after a 2-3 week TGF-beta3 exposure period, all in serum-free media. The key finding was that sequential treatment—first TGF-beta3 alone, then mechanical loading—produced significantly stiffer constructs that achieved mechanical properties (Young's modulus) and biochemical content (GAG levels) similar to native articular cartilage within just 42 days. This suggests that the timing of mechanical stimulation is critical for optimizing engineered cartilage development in clinically relevant culture conditions.

DEEP VERTICAL COLLAGEN FIBRILS PLAY A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN MECHANICS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.20537 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:58:06
This study aimed to determine the mechanical role of deep vertical collagen fibrils in articular cartilage, which cannot be assessed using standard confined and unconfined testing methods. The researchers developed a sophisticated computer model of tibial cartilage that incorporated the depth-dependent properties and distinct collagen fibril networks (horizontal, random, and vertical orientations) with realistic material properties. The key finding was that vertical fibrils significantly increase cartilage stiffness and protect against excessive deformation during rapid loading (transient period), but this protective effect diminishes over time and during slow loading rates typical of normal walking. The study suggests that damage to the deep vertical collagen network, such as from bone bruises, could compromise the cartilage's ability to resist rapid loading and increase the risk of tissue failure in the deep zone.

DISPLACEMENT ENCODING FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF CARTILAGE DEFORMATION.

DOI: 10.1002/mrm.21464 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:57:58
This study aimed to develop and validate an MRI-based method for measuring cartilage deformation patterns during mechanical loading. The researchers used a DENSE-FSE (Displacement Encoding with Stimulated Echoes - Fast Spin Echo) technique at 9.4 Tesla MRI to image cartilage tissue while applying cyclic mechanical compression, with specialized radio frequency pulse cycling to eliminate imaging artifacts. The method achieved high precision (better than 0.17% strain error) and successfully captured complex, heterogeneous deformation patterns in axial, transverse, and shear directions within a single cartilage sample under uniaxial compression. This technique offers a valuable tool for characterizing the micromechanical behavior of normal, diseased, or regenerated cartilage under physiologically relevant loading conditions.

ENGINEERED CARTILAGE GENERATED BY NASAL CHONDROCYTES IS RESPONSIVE TO PHYSICAL FORCES RESEMBLING JOINT LOADING.

DOI: 10.1002/art.23155 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:57:52
This study investigated whether engineered cartilage made from nasal chondrocytes responds to mechanical loading patterns similar to those found in joints. Researchers cultured human nasal and articular chondrocytes from 5 individuals in scaffolds for 2 weeks, then exposed them to three different loading regimens including cyclic deformation and surface motion over various time periods. The engineered nasal cartilage initially contained more glycosaminoglycan and collagen than articular cartilage, and responded well to all loading patterns by increasing key cartilage components and joint lubrication molecules. These findings suggest that nasal chondrocytes could be a promising alternative cell source for cartilage repair, as they respond appropriately to joint-like mechanical forces.

CARTILAGINOUS TISSUE FORMATION USING A MECHANO-ACTIVE SCAFFOLD AND DYNAMIC COMPRESSIVE STIMULATION.

DOI: 10.1163/156856208783227712 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:57:47
This study aimed to develop cartilage tissue using highly elastic scaffolds combined with mechanical stimulation to mimic natural joint loading conditions. The researchers created rubber-like scaffolds from PLCL polymer with 85% porosity, seeded them with chondrocytes, and applied 5% compressive strain at 0.1 Hz for either 10 or 24 days before implanting the constructs into nude mice. The results showed that mechanical stimulation significantly increased cartilage matrix production and led to mature cartilage formation with proper cell organization and abundant sulfated GAGs (key cartilage components). However, longer stimulation periods (24 days vs 10 days) caused cell damage and abnormal tissue development, suggesting that optimal timing of mechanical loading is crucial for successful cartilage tissue engineering.

SCIENTIFIC AND CLINICAL ADVANCES LEADING TO IMPROVED TREATMENT OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1249/mss.0b013e31815cb1eb · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:57:41
This appears to be an introduction to a collection of research papers rather than a single study with specific objectives and methods. The purpose is to present research that has advanced understanding of knee osteoarthritis from basic science through to clinical treatment. The papers collectively cover cartilage structure and function, disease initiation and progression, and therapeutic approaches. The authors emphasize that recent scientific advances have led to successful treatments that can reduce pain, improve joint function, and increase physical activity in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

RECOVERY OF THE MENISCI AND ARTICULAR CARTILAGE OF RUNNERS AFTER CESSATION OF EXERCISE: ADDITIONAL ASPECTS OF IN VIVO INVESTIGATION BASED ON 3-DIMENSIONAL MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546507313093 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:57:36
This study investigated how quickly knee cartilage and menisci recover after long-distance running by measuring tissue volumes using 3D magnetic resonance imaging. Twenty male runners underwent MRI scans before running 20 km, immediately after the run, and after one hour of recovery to track changes in cartilage volume in the patella, tibia, and both menisci. The researchers found that running caused significant temporary decreases in cartilage and meniscal volumes, but after one hour of rest, all tissues had largely recovered to baseline levels, though meniscal recovery appeared to lag slightly behind cartilage recovery. These findings suggest that knee cartilage and menisci can effectively adapt to and recover from the mechanical stresses of long-distance running within a short recovery period.

VARIATION IN THE ANATOMY OF THE TIBIAL PLATEAU: A POSSIBLE FACTOR IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ANTEROMEDIAL OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE KNEE.

DOI: 10.1302/0301-620X.90B3.19898 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:57:30
This study investigated whether variations in tibial plateau anatomy contribute to the development of anteromedial knee osteoarthritis. The researchers compared the "extension facet angle" (the angle between extension and flexion facets of the tibia) in 20 patients with early anteromedial osteoarthritis versus controls with ACL ruptures, measuring this angle on sagittal MRI images at the middle of the medial femoral condyle. Patients with early osteoarthritis had significantly larger extension facet angles compared to controls (19° vs 14°, p<0.001), with considerable variation observed in normal knees (3-25°). The authors suggest that steeper extension facet angles may increase loading duration on the tibial extension facet during walking, potentially initiating cartilage breakdown, though they acknowledge that causation has not been proven.

IN VIVO CARTILAGE CONTACT DEFORMATION OF HUMAN ANKLE JOINTS UNDER FULL BODY WEIGHT.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.20593 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:57:24
This study aimed to measure how ankle joint cartilage deforms under full body weight in living humans. The researchers used a combination of dual fluoroscopic imaging and MRI to measure cartilage thickness and strain in ankle joints during non-weight bearing and single-leg weight bearing conditions. They found that ankle cartilage averaged about 1.4 mm thick when unloaded, but underwent substantial deformation during weight bearing, with nearly half of the contact area experiencing strains greater than 15% and peak strains reaching 35%. These findings demonstrate that ankle cartilage experiences large deformations during normal daily activities and provide valuable real-world data that can be used to improve computer models for studying joint mechanics and diseases like osteoarthritis.

EXPERIMENTAL MEASUREMENT AND QUANTIFICATION OF FRICTIONAL CONTACT BETWEEN BIOLOGICAL SURFACES EXPERIENCING LARGE DEFORMATION AND SLIP.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2008.01.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:57:18
This study aimed to develop and validate a mathematical method for measuring contact mechanics between biological surfaces undergoing large deformations and sliding motion. The researchers created a theoretical framework that tracks discrete tissue markers in 2D and 3D, then applied this method to analyze contact between opposing articular cartilage samples by optically tracking cell nuclei movements during loading. The approach demonstrated high accuracy (<1% error) when validated against theoretical datasets and successfully quantified surface movements and deformations in real cartilage tissue experiments. The key finding was that cartilage pairs with mismatched material properties showed greater differences in lateral expansion and increased sliding between contacting surfaces compared to tissues with similar properties.

THE EFFECT OF GLYCOSAMINOGLYCAN DEPLETION ON THE FRICTION AND DEFORMATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1243/09544119JEIM325 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:56:44
This study investigated how the loss of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) - key molecules that help cartilage resist compression and retain fluid - affects cartilage friction and mechanical properties under different loading conditions. The researchers used enzyme treatment to remove GAGs from cartilage samples, then tested friction using a pin-on-plate machine under both static (startup) and dynamic (continuous sliding) conditions, along with indentation tests to measure stiffness and fluid flow properties.

GAG depletion significantly increased friction by over 50% during dynamic sliding due to impaired fluid-based lubrication, while static friction showed minimal changes since the cartilage surfaces couldn't recover fluid during constant loading. The GAG-depleted cartilage also became softer with reduced stiffness and increased permeability, confirming that GAGs are essential for both the mechanical strength and low-friction properties of healthy cartilage.

INFLUENCE OF LOCATION, FLUID FLOW DIRECTION, AND TISSUE MATURITY ON THE MACROSCOPIC PERMEABILITY OF VERTEBRAL END PLATES.

DOI: 10.1097/BRS.0b013e318166e0d7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:56:38
This pilot study investigated how vertebral endplate permeability changes with age, location, and fluid flow direction in a growing animal model. The researchers used a validated pressure-relaxation method to measure permeability in endplate specimens from L1-L5 vertebrae at 2, 4, and 6 months of age, extracting three specimens from each endplate for testing. Key findings showed that the central zone of vertebral endplates was more permeable than the periphery, with outward fluid flow showing up to 35% greater permeability than inward flow. The study confirmed that endplate permeability significantly decreases with tissue maturation, supporting the hypothesis that age-related changes in fluid transport may contribute to spinal pathologies like disc degeneration.

DYNAMIC COMPRESSION COUNTERACTS IL-1BETA INDUCED INDUCIBLE NITRIC OXIDE SYNTHASE AND CYCLO-OXYGENASE-2 EXPRESSION IN CHONDROCYTE/AGAROSE CONSTRUCTS.

DOI: 10.1186/ar2389 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:56:32
This study investigated how dynamic mechanical compression affects inflammation-related enzymes in cartilage cells exposed to IL-1β, a key inflammatory mediator in osteoarthritis. The researchers used chondrocytes embedded in agarose gel constructs, exposing them to IL-1β and/or dynamic compression in a bioreactor system, while measuring the expression of inflammatory enzymes (iNOS and COX-2) and their products (nitric oxide and PGE2). The key finding was that dynamic compression counteracted the harmful effects of IL-1β by reducing the expression of both iNOS and COX-2 enzymes and decreasing production of their inflammatory products. These results suggest that mechanical loading could be combined with drug treatments targeting these same inflammatory pathways to develop more effective therapies for cartilage disorders like osteoarthritis.

INTERLEUKIN-1 INHIBITS OSMOTICALLY INDUCED CALCIUM SIGNALING AND VOLUME REGULATION IN ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2008.04.003 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:56:26
This study investigated how interleukin-1 (IL-1), an inflammatory protein linked to osteoarthritis, affects the normal responses of cartilage cells (chondrocytes) to osmotic stress. The researchers used fluorescence imaging to measure calcium levels and cell volume changes in isolated pig chondrocytes exposed to different osmotic conditions, with and without IL-1 treatment, plus various inhibitors to understand the underlying mechanisms. They found that IL-1 significantly impaired the cells' ability to regulate their volume after swelling and altered their calcium signaling responses to osmotic stress, effects that were reversed by blocking IL-1 or certain cellular pathways. These changes were associated with disruptions to the cell's internal structural framework (F-actin), suggesting that IL-1 interferes with normal chondrocyte responses to mechanical loading through cytoskeletal remodeling pathways.

MENISCECTOMY ALTERS THE DYNAMIC DEFORMATIONAL BEHAVIOR AND CUMULATIVE STRAIN OF TIBIAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN KNEE JOINTS SUBJECTED TO CYCLIC LOADS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2008.04.011 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:56:19
This study investigated how meniscus removal (meniscectomy) affects the mechanical behavior of knee cartilage under repeated loading, using a sheep model to understand the development of osteoarthritis after meniscal surgery. The researchers used high-resolution MRI to monitor cartilage thickness and strain in four sheep knees during one hour of cyclic loading that simulated normal walking, followed by 2.5 hours of recovery after loading stopped. After meniscectomy, the central cartilage experienced much higher strain (72% vs 55% in intact knees) and remained compressed for much longer periods, while peripheral cartilage experienced reduced loading. These findings suggest that meniscectomy creates harmful mechanical conditions where central cartilage becomes chronically deformed and dehydrated (potentially leading to cartilage breakdown), while reduced loading in peripheral areas may promote abnormal bone growth, explaining the typical pattern of joint damage seen after meniscal surgery.

EFFECT OF INTERMITTENT CYCLIC PRELOADS ON THE RESPONSE OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPLANTS TO AN EXCESSIVE LEVEL OF UNCONFINED COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.20673 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:56:12
This study investigated whether pre-conditioning cartilage with cyclic loading could protect it from subsequent damaging compression forces. Researchers applied low-intensity cyclic loading (0.5 MPa at 0.2 Hz) to cartilage explants for 7, 14, or 21 days, then subjected all samples to potentially damaging high compression (25 MPa) while measuring tissue composition and mechanical properties. The results showed that 7-14 days of cyclic preloading increased proteoglycan content and mechanical stiffness, making the cartilage more resistant to damage and cell death from the subsequent high compression. However, after 21 days of cyclic loading, the protective effect was lost and the cartilage became more susceptible to damage, suggesting that moderate preconditioning can be protective but prolonged loading may be detrimental.

P188 REDUCES CELL DEATH AND IGF-I REDUCES GAG RELEASE FOLLOWING SINGLE-IMPACT LOADING OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1115/1.2939368 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:56:06
This study investigated whether P188 (a surfactant) and IGF-I (a growth factor) could protect articular cartilage from damage after traumatic impact injury. The researchers subjected bovine cartilage samples to low-energy (1.1 J) or high-energy (2.8 J) impacts, then treated them with P188, IGF-I, or their combination for up to one week while measuring tissue damage, cell death, matrix loss, and mechanical properties.

Both impact levels caused progressive cartilage degeneration over time, with high-energy impacts producing immediate visible damage and reduced tissue stiffness that worsened over one week. While neither treatment was effective at 24 hours, by one week P188 reduced cell death by 75% following low-energy impact, and IGF-I decreased matrix breakdown (GAG release) by 49%.

The treatments showed promise for reducing specific aspects of cartilage damage, but neither restored the tissue's mechanical properties, indicating that additional research is needed to develop more comprehensive therapeutic strategies for preventing post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

MOLECULAR AND MORPHOLOGICAL ADAPTATIONS IN COMPRESSED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE BY POLARIZED LIGHT MICROSCOPY AND FOURIER-TRANSFORM INFRARED IMAGING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2008.06.009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:55:58
This study investigated how articular cartilage structure and molecular organization change under mechanical compression using advanced imaging techniques. Researchers compressed 15 cartilage-bone specimens from a dog's shoulder joint at varying strain levels (0-50%) and analyzed the same tissue sections using polarized light microscopy (PLM) to assess collagen fiber organization and Fourier-transform infrared imaging (FTIRI) to measure molecular bond orientations.

The findings revealed that the most significant structural changes occurred between 0-20% compression, with the superficial cartilage zone becoming thicker while the deeper radial zone became thinner in a linear relationship with applied strain. The molecular analysis showed that protein bonds oriented perpendicular to compression maintained their organization, while bonds parallel to compression significantly altered their arrangement, with excellent correlation (r=0.98) between the two imaging methods.

These results demonstrate that cartilage undergoes distinct depth-dependent adaptations to mechanical loading, involving both structural reorganization of collagen fibers and molecular reorientation of protein bonds, which could help researchers better understand early cartilage disease processes.

MOLECULAR ANALYSIS OF CHONDROCYTES CULTURED IN AGAROSE IN RESPONSE TO DYNAMIC COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1186/1472-6750-8-71 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:55:51
This study aimed to develop and validate protocols for investigating how cartilage cells (chondrocytes) respond to mechanical loading at the molecular level, using a mouse chondrocyte-agarose culture system. The researchers cultured mouse chondrocytes in agarose gel for one week, then applied dynamic compression while analyzing cellular responses through multiple techniques including RT-PCR for gene expression, Western blotting for protein signaling, and gene reporter assays for transcriptional activity. Key findings showed that mechanical compression activated mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways, increased expression of mechanosensitive genes (cfos and cjun), and decreased the activity of the type II collagen promoter. The study successfully established a comprehensive experimental framework for studying mechanotransduction in cartilage cells, providing valuable tools for understanding how mechanical forces influence cartilage biology and potentially cartilage diseases.

THE EFFECTS OF FOCAL ARTICULAR DEFECTS ON CARTILAGE CONTACT MECHANICS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.20762 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:55:45
This study investigated how focal cartilage defects affect the mechanical environment of surrounding cartilage tissue during loading. The researchers created full-thickness defects with either 80° or 100° edge orientations in bovine cartilage samples, then used video microscopy and digital image correlation to measure tissue strains and surface sliding during compression and stress relaxation. The key findings showed that defects caused elevated strain magnitudes in cartilage both adjacent to and opposite the defect, with 100° edge orientations specifically increasing surface sliding near the defect compared to normal cartilage. These altered mechanical conditions around focal defects may explain how localized cartilage damage can lead to progressive tissue degeneration and accelerated joint wear.

EFFECT OF NOMINAL STRESS ON THE LONG TERM FRICTION, DEFORMATION AND WEAR OF NATIVE AND GLYCOSAMINOGLYCAN DEFICIENT ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2008.10.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:55:40
This study investigated how different stress levels affect the long-term friction, deformation, and wear properties of both normal cartilage and cartilage with depleted glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). The researchers used a pin-on-plate testing machine to measure friction coefficients over 7-hour tests at three stress levels (0.5, 2, and 3.15 MPa), while also measuring tissue deformation and wear.

For normal cartilage, higher stress levels (up to 3.15 MPa) increased both friction and wear because the tissue couldn't adequately rehydrate and maintain fluid pressure support during the testing conditions. In contrast, GAG-depleted cartilage showed no change in friction or wear with increasing stress levels, which the authors attributed to the severely deformed tissue developing smoother, more conforming contact surfaces under higher loads.

DEFORMATION AND RECOVERY OF CARTILAGE IN THE INTACT HIP UNDER PHYSIOLOGICAL LOADS USING 7T MRI.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2008.11.025 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:55:33
This study aimed to determine the timing and extent of hip cartilage deformation and recovery under physiological loads using high-resolution 7T MRI in cadaver specimens. The researchers loaded five human hip specimens with 1980N of force while scanning every 15 minutes during loading, with one specimen monitored hourly during recovery and another tested repeatedly over four days to assess measurement reliability. The key findings showed that hip cartilage reached steady-state deformation after 225 minutes of loading (with 30.9% average strain and 0.96mm thickness reduction) and required 16.5 hours to fully recover once the load was removed. The measurement precision was excellent, with day-to-day thickness variations of only 0.10mm, suggesting this ex vivo 7T MRI method could be valuable for evaluating how injuries or surgical interventions affect hip cartilage biomechanics.

CARTILAGE COLLAGEN MATRIX REORIENTATION AND DISPLACEMENT IN RESPONSE TO SURFACE LOADING.

DOI: 10.1115/1.3049478 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:55:27
This study investigated how cartilage collagen fibers reorganize and how fluid moves through cartilage tissue when subjected to mechanical loading. The researchers used advanced X-ray scattering techniques and optical microscopy to examine healthy and diseased equine cartilage samples under controlled compression in a specialized testing apparatus at a synchrotron facility.

The key findings showed that cartilage responds to loading in distinct phases: at low pressures (up to 1.5 MPa), surface fibers compressed reversibly, while higher loads (4.8-6.0 MPa) caused deeper fibers to rotate and lose their organized alignment, eventually leading to "crimping" patterns. At the highest loads, cartilage failed through radial splits in the deep layer that spread along the bone-cartilage boundary, while diseased cartilage showed disrupted fiber organization and early fiber rupture followed by partial recovery.

The study also revealed that both solid matrix and fluid movement within cartilage varies significantly depending on the depth and direction within the tissue, providing important insights into how cartilage mechanical properties change under load.

TREATMENT WITH AND WITHOUT INITIAL STABILIZING SURGERY FOR PRIMARY TRAUMATIC PATELLAR DISLOCATION. A PROSPECTIVE RANDOMIZED STUDY.

DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.G.01449 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:55:19
This prospective randomized study compared surgical stabilization versus non-surgical treatment (orthosis) for primary traumatic patellar dislocation in 40 young adults (median age 20 years). After a median 7-year follow-up, patients who received initial surgical stabilization had significantly fewer redislocations compared to those treated non-surgically (0% vs 29%, p=0.02). However, both groups showed similar functional outcomes, with comparable Kujala scores (91 vs 90 points) and similar rates of return to previous activity levels. Despite the lower redislocation rate with surgery, there were no clear subjective benefits of surgical treatment at long-term follow-up.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFORMATION DETERMINED IN AN INTACT TIBIOFEMORAL JOINT BY DISPLACEMENT-ENCODED IMAGING.

DOI: 10.1002/mrm.21927 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:55:14
This study aimed to measure cartilage deformation in an intact knee joint under cyclic loading using advanced MRI techniques. The researchers used displacement-encoded imaging with stimulated echoes (DENSE) combined with fast spin echo (FSE) to track cartilage movement and strain patterns during compression testing of intact tibiofemoral joints in vitro. The results showed complex, non-uniform deformation patterns with displacements ranging from approximately 765-1688 micrometers and strains up to -9.8% in the loading direction, with high measurement precision (65 micrometers for displacement, <0.2% for strain). This MRI-based approach successfully captured the heterogeneous mechanical behavior of cartilage in its natural joint environment, providing valuable insights for understanding normal cartilage function and evaluating tissue engineering approaches.

THE SHORT-TERM EFFECTS OF RUNNING ON THE DEFORMATION OF KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO BIOMECHANICAL LOADS AT THE KNEE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2008.12.010 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:55:08
This study investigated how recreational running affects knee cartilage deformation in the short term and whether biomechanical factors during running can predict these changes. Twenty healthy volunteers underwent MRI scans before and after a 5,000-step run, followed by laboratory gait analysis to measure knee joint loading using biomechanical modeling. Running caused significant cartilage volume reductions of 4-6% in the medial and lateral femoral cartilage and lateral tibial cartilage, with only maximum compression stress showing a moderate correlation with lateral femoral cartilage changes. The findings suggest that while running clearly deforms knee cartilage acutely, current biomechanical measures poorly predict the extent of cartilage deformation, indicating that more sophisticated modeling approaches are needed to understand cartilage loading mechanisms.

ON THE THERMODYNAMICAL ADMISSIBILITY OF THE TRIPHASIC THEORY OF CHARGED HYDRATED TISSUES.

DOI: 10.1115/1.3049531 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:55:02
This study evaluated whether the triphasic theory for articular cartilage behavior is thermodynamically valid. The researchers calculated the free energy changes in cartilage samples during closed cycles of mechanical and chemical loading using the triphasic theory's mathematical framework. They found that the chemical expansion stress component of the theory predicts an unphysical generation of free energy during each loading-unloading cycle, which would theoretically allow infinite energy extraction from cartilage. The authors concluded that the chemical expansion stress formulation in the triphasic theory violates the second law of thermodynamics, questioning the theory's fundamental validity.

INFLUENCE OF THE MENISCUS ON FRICTION AND DEGRADATION OF CARTILAGE IN THE NATURAL KNEE JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2009.02.012 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:54:57
This study investigated how the meniscus protects knee cartilage by comparing friction and wear in intact versus meniscectomized bovine knee joints. The researchers used a pendulum friction simulator to apply physiological loading and motion to medial compartmental knee joints, measuring cartilage wear through micro-MRI and surface profilometry. Knees with intact menisci showed no cartilage damage or surface changes, while meniscectomy immediately caused increased contact stress and friction, leading to surface fibrillation, wear, and permanent cartilage deformation. This work provides the first in vitro model system for studying the tribological (friction and wear) effects of meniscus removal and potential repair strategies in whole knee joints.

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF BOVINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER MICROSCALE INDENTATION LOADING FROM ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPY.

DOI: 10.1243/09544119JEIM516 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:54:51
This study aimed to more accurately measure the microscale mechanical properties of bovine articular cartilage using atomic force microscopy (AFM) indentation testing. The researchers used a non-Hertzian approach with a 5-micron spherical tip instead of the conventional sharp conical tips, and validated their methodology by comparing results with agarose gel samples at both microscale and macroscale levels. The study found that articular cartilage has a microscale Young's modulus of approximately 30.9 kPa at 600 nm deformation depth, and exhibits depth-dependent but frequency-independent mechanical behavior. These more accurate microscale measurements could help guide the design of tissue-engineered cartilage scaffolds by providing better characterization of cartilage mechanical properties at the cellular level.

STRAIN-DEPENDENT MODULATION OF ULTRASOUND SPEED IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER DYNAMIC COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2009.03.002 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:54:46
This study investigated how mechanical compression affects ultrasound speed in articular cartilage, which is important for improving the accuracy of mechano-acoustic indentation—a promising clinical technique for cartilage assessment. The researchers tested bovine cartilage samples under dynamic compression at various strain levels and used a fibril-reinforced poroviscoelastic (FRPVE) computational model to simulate the observed changes.

The key finding was that ultrasound speed decreased nonlinearly with increasing compressive strain, ranging from -0.94% at 2.4% strain to -2.15% at 14.4% strain. These changes in ultrasound speed caused substantial measurement errors in mechano-acoustic testing, particularly at low strains where strain measurements were off by 39.7% and elastic modulus by 72.1%. The researchers successfully developed and validated a computational correction method that significantly reduced these errors, improving accuracy from 39.7% to 7.2% for strain measurements and from 72.1% to 35.3% for modulus measurements at low strain levels.

IN SITU DEFORMATION OF CARTILAGE IN CYCLICALLY LOADED TIBIOFEMORAL JOINTS BY DISPLACEMENT-ENCODED MRI.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2009.04.021 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:54:39
This study aimed to measure cartilage displacement and strain patterns in intact knee joints during cyclic loading using advanced MRI techniques. The researchers used displacement-encoded MRI (DENSE-FSE) on a 7.0 Tesla scanner to image eight juvenile porcine knee joints that were cyclically compressed at one and two times body weight. The key findings showed that cartilage deformation was heterogeneous through the tissue depth, with maximum compressive strains occurring in the middle zone of both femoral and tibial cartilage, while tensile strains developed perpendicular to the loading direction. This non-invasive imaging approach provides unique insights into cartilage biomechanics that could be valuable for comparing healthy and diseased tissue, as well as designing tissue-engineered cartilage replacements.

THE ROLE OF INTERSTITIAL FLUID PRESSURIZATION IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE LUBRICATION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2009.04.040 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:54:33
This review examines how fluid pressure within articular cartilage contributes to joint lubrication during loading. The authors analyzed theoretical models and experimental studies measuring fluid load support (the fraction of applied load carried by pressurized interstitial fluid) and its relationship to cartilage friction coefficients. Key findings show that cartilage friction decreases significantly as fluid load support increases, with the lowest friction occurring when pressurized fluid carries most of the load - a mechanism that can maintain low friction during prolonged loading under normal joint function. The research provides important insights into how this fluid pressurization mechanism works alongside other lubrication factors like synovial fluid molecules and superficial zone properties, and how cartilage degeneration affects these frictional responses.

VISCOELASTIC PROPERTIES OF BOVINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE ATTACHED TO SUBCHONDRAL BONE AT HIGH FREQUENCIES.

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2474-10-61 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:54:27
This study aimed to characterize the viscoelastic properties of bovine articular cartilage across high loading frequencies (1-92 Hz) that occur during physiological activities. The researchers used dynamic mechanical analysis to apply sinusoidal compressive forces to intact tibial plateau cartilage samples attached to subchondral bone, measuring storage modulus, loss modulus, and phase angle. The key findings showed that storage modulus increased logarithmically with frequency before plateauing at higher frequencies, while loss modulus remained constant at much lower values (4.8 MPa) regardless of frequency. The results indicate that cartilage stores more energy than it dissipates, particularly at higher frequencies, with the authors suggesting that excess energy may contribute to crack formation and potentially osteoarthritis development.

SIGNALLING CASCADES IN MECHANOTRANSDUCTION: CELL-MATRIX INTERACTIONS AND MECHANICAL LOADING.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0838.2009.00912.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:54:19
This review examines how mechanical forces influence cartilage health through cellular signaling pathways that control tissue maintenance and remodeling. The authors describe the mechanotransduction process, where mechanical loading of cartilage creates complex tissue changes (deformation, pressure changes, fluid flow, altered ion concentrations) that are detected by cellular mechanoreceptors like ion channels and integrins, which then activate intracellular signaling cascades. The key finding is that physiological mechanical loading promotes beneficial chondrocyte metabolism and cartilage maintenance, while excessive loading disrupts the balance between tissue building (anabolic) and breakdown (catabolic) processes, leading to cartilage degradation. The review highlights how understanding these mechanical signaling pathways is crucial for comprehending both normal cartilage function and the development of cartilage-related diseases.

CONFOCAL MICROSCOPY INDENTATION SYSTEM FOR STUDYING IN SITU CHONDROCYTE MECHANICS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2009.05.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:54:13
This study developed a novel experimental system to investigate how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) respond to mechanical loading in their natural environment within intact cartilage tissue. The researchers designed a specialized indentation system that combines confocal microscopy with a transparent glass indenter (0.17 mm thick, 1.64 mm diameter), allowing real-time observation of living chondrocytes while applying controlled mechanical loads to the cartilage surface. This system enables simultaneous measurement of cell deformation and biological responses (such as calcium signaling) during loading, which was not possible with previous methods that relied on isolated cells or fixed tissue samples. The technology provides a more physiologically relevant approach to studying how mechanical forces influence cartilage cell behavior and could offer new insights into cartilage adaptation and degeneration processes.

QUASI-STEADY-STATE DISPLACEMENT RESPONSE OF WHOLE HUMAN CADAVERIC KNEES IN A MRI SCANNER.

DOI: 10.1115/1.2978986 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:54:07
This study aimed to develop an MRI-compatible system for measuring three-dimensional cartilage deformation in whole human cadaveric knees and determine the loading conditions needed for a new imaging technique called Cartilage Deformation by Tag Registration (CDTR). The researchers built an electropneumatic apparatus that fits inside a clinical MRI scanner and can apply cyclic compression loads to cadaveric knees at physiological levels. They found that an average of 356 ± 69 loading cycles were required for three cadaveric knees to reach a stable, repeatable load-displacement response suitable for CDTR imaging. The system successfully produced clear MRI images of both unloaded and loaded cartilage without artifacts, demonstrating its potential as a tool for studying cartilage biomechanics in the native joint environment.

BIOMECHANICS OF SINGLE CHONDROCYTES UNDER DIRECT SHEAR.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-009-0166-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:54:01
This study aimed to understand how individual cartilage cells (chondrocytes) respond biomechanically to direct shear forces, which they experience during normal joint movement and which can influence cartilage health or disease. The researchers developed a novel video-capture technique using a controlled shearing probe positioned at three different heights along single chondrocytes to measure precise force and deformation responses during shear loading. The key findings showed that chondrocytes become progressively stiffer from top to bottom, with shear stiffness increasing from 1.7 kPa near the cell top to 4.1 kPa near the cell base, and that all cells stopped moving forward at approximately 35% shear strain regardless of probe position. The authors concluded that this mechanical behavior is likely due to focal adhesion activation and internal structural rearrangements, providing fundamental insights that could inform treatments for cartilage disorders and optimal loading strategies for joint health.

EVALUATION OF THE EFFECT OF GLUCOSAMINE ADMINISTRATION ON BIOMARKERS FOR CARTILAGE AND BONE METABOLISM IN SOCCER PLAYERS.

DOI: 10.3892/ijmm_00000257 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:53:54
This study investigated whether glucosamine supplementation could protect joint cartilage in soccer players by measuring biomarkers of cartilage breakdown and repair. The researchers compared blood levels of collagen degradation (CTX-II) and synthesis (CPII) markers between soccer players and non-athletes, then examined changes in soccer players before, during, and after 3 months of glucosamine treatment (1.5-3g daily). Soccer players showed elevated cartilage turnover compared to controls, with a higher ratio of breakdown to repair indicating net cartilage damage. Glucosamine supplementation significantly reduced cartilage breakdown markers and improved the breakdown-to-synthesis ratio, but these protective effects disappeared once supplementation stopped, suggesting glucosamine may offer temporary cartilage protection in high-impact athletes.

A PHENOMENOLOGICAL APPROACH TOWARD PATIENT-SPECIFIC COMPUTATIONAL MODELING OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE INCLUDING COLLAGEN FIBER TRACKING.

DOI: 10.1115/1.3148471 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:53:47
This study aimed to develop a patient-specific computational model for articular cartilage that incorporates collagen fiber structure and can accurately predict mechanical behavior under physiological loading conditions. The researchers used a custom robotics-based testing device to perform MRI imaging, surface imaging, and mechanical indentation tests on five human cartilage specimens at multiple locations, then created specimen-specific finite element simulations using a seven-parameter viscoelastic constitutive model. The model demonstrated excellent agreement with experimental data, achieving correlation coefficients of 0.975±0.013 and successfully reproducing force-time responses with good accuracy (R²=0.95±0.03 across 23 indentation tests). A novel feature of this approach is its ability to track 3D collagen fiber deformation during loading, which was validated against published diffusion tensor MRI data, making it suitable for large-scale knee joint simulations.

MECHANICAL EFFECTS OF SURGICAL PROCEDURES ON OSTEOCHONDRAL GRAFTS ELUCIDATED BY OSMOTIC LOADING AND REAL-TIME ULTRASOUND.

DOI: 10.1186/ar2801 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:53:41
This study investigated whether the impaction forces required to insert oversized osteochondral grafts damage the cartilage surface integrity. The researchers created 3.5mm defects in bovine patellae and transplanted either exact-sized (3.5mm) or oversized (4.5mm) plugs, then used real-time ultrasound monitoring during osmotic loading (salt solution changes) to assess cartilage mechanical properties. The key finding was that oversized plugs showed significantly reduced amplitude recovery rates (ARR) compared to control tissue and exact-sized plugs, indicating damage to the superficial collagen network from impaction forces. This novel ultrasound-based assessment technique offers a minimally invasive method to evaluate cartilage surface damage following osteochondral grafting procedures.

MECHANICAL LOADING REGIMES AFFECT THE ANABOLIC AND CATABOLIC ACTIVITIES BY CHONDROCYTES ENCAPSULATED IN PEG HYDROGELS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2009.08.005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:53:36
This study investigated how different mechanical loading patterns affect cartilage-producing cells (chondrocytes) embedded in synthetic hydrogels for cartilage tissue engineering. The researchers compared continuous versus intermittent loading and immediate versus delayed loading (after one week) on bovine chondrocytes, measuring gene expression for cartilage components and enzymes that break down cartilage matrix.

The key findings showed that intermittent loading dramatically increased both cartilage-building genes (collagen II increased 2-fold) and cartilage-degrading enzymes (MMP-1 and MMP-3 increased 16-fold and 8-fold respectively), while continuous loading enhanced aggrecan expression but reduced enzyme activity. When loading was delayed by one week, the cells became less responsive to mechanical stimulation and showed reduced enzyme expression.

The study concludes that early application of intermittent loading is optimal for stimulating both tissue-building and tissue-remodeling activities, which may be essential for long-term success in engineered cartilage regeneration.

THE EFFECTS OF DYNAMIC AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL ENVIRONMENTS ON CHONDROGENIC DIFFERENTIATION OF BONE MARROW STROMAL CELLS.

DOI: 10.1088/1748-6041/4/5/055009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:53:28
This study aimed to enhance the conversion of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) into cartilage-producing cells using a combination of mechanical stimulation and specialized scaffold materials. The researchers cultured rabbit BMSCs in hybrid scaffolds made of fibrin gel and elastic PLCL polymer, applying 5% compression at 0.1 Hz for 10 days, then implanted the constructs into mice to assess cartilage formation. The key finding was that BMSCs cultured under dynamic compression in the hybrid scaffolds showed significantly enhanced cartilage differentiation compared to static culture conditions or scaffolds without fibrin gel. The combination of mechanical loading and three-dimensional hybrid scaffolds promoted better cell adhesion, increased production of cartilage matrix proteins, and improved the overall quality of engineered cartilage tissue both in laboratory culture and after implantation.

IN VIVO TIBIOFEMORAL CARTILAGE DEFORMATION DURING THE STANCE PHASE OF GAIT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2009.10.028 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:53:22
This study aimed to measure how knee cartilage deforms during normal walking by tracking cartilage contact patterns in healthy individuals. The researchers used MRI scans combined with dual fluoroscopic imaging to track cartilage deformation in eight healthy knees while participants walked on a treadmill. They found that cartilage compressed by 7-23% of its resting thickness during the stance phase of walking, with peak deformation occurring in thicker cartilage regions, and the medial compartment showed larger contact areas and greater front-to-back movement compared to the lateral compartment. These findings provide important baseline data for understanding normal cartilage function and could help identify regions at risk for injury in diseased knees, while also establishing realistic parameters for laboratory cartilage testing.

A LINEARIZED FORMULATION OF TRIPHASIC MIXTURE THEORY FOR ARTICULAR CARTILAGE, AND ITS APPLICATION TO INDENTATION ANALYSIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2009.10.026 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:53:16
This study aimed to simplify the complex triphasic mixture theory for articular cartilage to make it applicable to clinically relevant loading scenarios like indentation testing. The researchers used mathematical linearization techniques and developed a finite difference numerical program to model the mechanical, electrical, and fluid flow behaviors in cartilage during indentation. The simplified model successfully predicted experimental indentation data and revealed that the negatively charged proteoglycans in cartilage increase the tissue's apparent stiffness while reducing viscous effects from fluid flow. These findings provide important insights for understanding how cartilage cells respond to mechanical loading and have practical applications for tissue engineering and cartilage repair strategies.

COMPOSITION OF THE PERICELLULAR MATRIX MODULATES THE DEFORMATION BEHAVIOUR OF CHONDROCYTES IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER STATIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1007/s11517-009-0547-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:53:11
This study investigated how changes in the pericellular matrix (PCM) composition affect chondrocyte deformation in articular cartilage. The researchers used a sophisticated 3D finite element computer model that incorporated depth-dependent properties of cartilage, including collagen density, fluid content, and charge density, with chondrocytes modeled as fluid-filled elastic structures subjected to 15% compression. The key findings showed that cell deformation was highly dependent on cartilage depth, and that increases in PCM collagen content and fluid fraction enhanced sideways cell stretching, while increased charge density had the opposite effect. The authors conclude that PCM composition significantly influences how cartilage cells deform under load, which has important implications for understanding cartilage health, disease progression, and developing better repair strategies.

MECHANICAL LOADING OF IN SITU CHONDROCYTES IN LAPINE RETROPATELLAR CARTILAGE AFTER ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT TRANSECTION.

DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2009.0458 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:53:04
This study aimed to measure how individual cartilage cells (chondrocytes) deform under mechanical loading in healthy versus early osteoarthritis (OA) tissue, using intact cartilage still attached to bone. The researchers used a specialized confocal microscopy system to observe cell deformation during controlled loading of retropatellar cartilage from rabbit knees, comparing normal controls with early OA induced by cutting the anterior cruciate ligament nine weeks prior.

The key findings showed that while the cartilage matrix became much more deformable in early OA (38% strain vs 27-28% in controls), chondrocytes did not simply deform more in all directions as hypothesized. Instead, cells in early OA cartilage showed increased widening during loading (12% vs 6% in controls) and surprisingly increased in volume rather than decreasing like healthy cells.

These results suggest that chondrocytes in early OA experience altered mechanical signals that are direction-specific, particularly increased transverse deformation, which may be important for understanding how cartilage cells respond to the disease process.

FUNCTIONAL CARTILAGE MRI T2 MAPPING: EVALUATING THE EFFECT OF AGE AND TRAINING ON KNEE CARTILAGE RESPONSE TO RUNNING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2009.11.011 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:52:57
This study investigated how age and physical activity level influence knee cartilage changes immediately after running exercise. The researchers used 3.0T MRI with T2 mapping to measure cartilage thickness and T2 values in 22 marathon runners and 15 sedentary controls (stratified by age above/below 46 years) before and after 30 minutes of running. Running caused measurable decreases in both cartilage thickness (4-12%) and T2 values (1-4 ms) primarily in the superficial cartilage layers of the femur and tibia, with minimal changes in deeper cartilage zones. Surprisingly, neither age nor training level (marathon runners vs. sedentary controls) affected the magnitude of cartilage response to running, suggesting that cartilage mechanical behavior immediately post-exercise is similar across different populations.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE COMPRESSION: HOW MICROSTRUCTURAL RESPONSE INFLUENCES PORE PRESSURE IN RELATION TO MATRIX HEALTH.

DOI: 10.3109/03008200903125229 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:52:51
This study investigated how cartilage degeneration affects pore pressure development and internal structure changes during mechanical loading using a flat-porous indenter. The researchers tested both normal and degenerate cartilage samples, measuring pore pressure responses while analyzing microstructural deformation patterns during compression. The key finding was that degenerate cartilage generated higher peak pore pressures more quickly than normal cartilage, followed by similar pressure decay patterns in both groups. The authors explain this occurs because degenerate cartilage experiences greater internal shear forces and less effective load distribution throughout the tissue, leading to elevated localized pressures that could further compromise joint health.

TIBIAL CARTILAGE DAMAGE AND DEFORMATION AT PEAK DISPLACEMENT COMPRESSION DURING SIMULATED LANDING IMPACT.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546509350465 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:52:45
This study investigated how tibial cartilage responds to simulated landing impacts, specifically comparing damage that occurs during peak compression versus after the load is released. Using porcine cartilage explants, researchers applied controlled impact compression (2mm deformation, 10Hz frequency) under two conditions: immediate fixation at peak compression ("impact and hold") versus fixation after load removal ("impact and release"), along with non-impact controls. The key finding was that cartilage sustained less severe damage when fixed at peak compression compared to after load release, with impact-and-release samples showing substantial defects like surface fraying and fissures versus more minor irregularities in impact-and-hold samples. This suggests that the unloading phase of impact significantly worsens cartilage damage by allowing fissures to propagate, indicating that clinical imaging may underestimate the actual forces experienced during injury since damage appears worse after the compressive load is removed.

THE CONSOLIDATION BEHAVIOR OF SILK HYDROGELS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2009.12.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:52:37
This study aimed to characterize the mechanical behavior of silk hydrogels under physiological loading conditions to better predict their performance as tissue engineering scaffolds or drug delivery vehicles. The researchers performed confined compression creep tests on silk hydrogels at different concentrations (4%, 8%, and 12% w/v) and applied Biot's poroelasticity theory and Terzaghi consolidation models to analyze the time-dependent mechanical response. The results showed that silk hydrogels behave according to consolidation mechanisms similar to natural cartilage, with higher concentration gels (8% and 12%) exhibiting strain-stiffening behavior under increasing loads while the 4% gel did not. The mathematical models showed excellent agreement with experimental data, and permeability measurements validated the theoretical framework, suggesting these models can reliably predict silk hydrogel performance in biomedical applications.

ANISOTROPIC DYNAMIC CHANGES IN THE PORE NETWORK STRUCTURE, FLUID DIFFUSION AND FLUID FLOW IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2010.01.102 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:52:31
This study investigated how the internal structure and fluid behavior of articular cartilage change during compression using a specialized compression device inside an NMR spectrometer. The researchers applied constant compressive loads to full-thickness cartilage samples while measuring real-time changes in pore structure, water diffusion, and fluid flow patterns.

Key findings revealed that cartilage properties like diffusion and hydraulic conductivity are strongly influenced by fluid pressure during dynamic loading, differing significantly from static (equilibrium) conditions. The study demonstrated that cartilage has a highly anisotropic (directionally-dependent) pore structure that maintains axial porosity even under large compressive strains, allowing pressurized fluid to flow toward the surface.

This mechanism appears to support joint lubrication by creating a protective fluid film that "weeps" from the compressed tissue, suggesting an important synergy between cartilage structure and joint lubrication mechanisms.

VOLTAGE-GATED K+ CURRENTS IN MOUSE ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTES REGULATE MEMBRANE POTENTIAL.

DOI: 10.4161/chan.4.3.11629 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:52:25
This study investigated how voltage-gated potassium (K+) channels control the electrical properties of cartilage cells from mouse joints. The researchers used patch clamp electrophysiology to measure electrical currents and membrane potential in isolated chondrocytes, combined with molecular techniques to identify which K+ channel types were present. They found that chondrocytes primarily express Kv1.6 potassium channels, which generate large delayed rectifier K+ currents that activate around -50 mV and help maintain the cells' resting membrane potential at approximately -46 mV. These K+ currents appear crucial for allowing chondrocytes to recover their normal electrical state after depolarizing stimuli that might occur during joint loading, suggesting an important role in the cellular response to mechanical stress in cartilage.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND SUBCHONDRAL BONE IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2009.05240.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:52:18
This review examines how articular cartilage and subchondral bone contribute to osteoarthritis (OA) development, focusing on the mechanisms by which altered joint loading leads to disease progression. The authors analyze existing literature on two primary pathways: abnormal loading on normal cartilage versus normal loading on abnormal cartilage, emphasizing the differential adaptive capacities of cartilage and bone tissues. The key finding is that bone adapts much more rapidly to mechanical changes than cartilage, particularly after acute joint injuries, creating an imbalance between these tissues that disrupts their normal physiological relationship. This tissue adaptation mismatch further accelerates OA pathology, highlighting the importance of understanding cartilage-bone interactions in disease development.

TRANSIENT RECEPTOR POTENTIAL VANILLOID 4: THE SIXTH SENSE OF THE MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM?

DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2010.05389.x · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:52:12
This review examines the role of TRPV4 (Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 4), a calcium-permeable ion channel, as a potential mechanosensory and osmosensory "sixth sense" in musculoskeletal tissues. The authors synthesized evidence from multiple studies investigating TRPV4 function across different musculoskeletal cell types, including chondrocytes, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts. Key findings show that TRPV4 controls cellular volume recovery in cartilage during osmotic stress, prevents bone loss during disuse, and promotes cartilage development by activating SOX9 transcription. The evidence suggests TRPV4 serves as a critical sensory mechanism that allows musculoskeletal cells to detect and respond to mechanical and osmotic changes in their environment.

IN-VIVO TIME-DEPENDENT ARTICULAR CARTILAGE CONTACT BEHAVIOR OF THE TIBIOFEMORAL JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2010.04.011 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:52:07
This study investigated how knee cartilage deforms and makes contact over time when subjected to constant body weight loading in living humans. The researchers used fluoroscopy and 3D MRI models to track cartilage behavior in six healthy knees during the first 300 seconds of full body weight loading, measuring peak contact deformation and contact area changes over time.

The study found that cartilage deformation and contact area increased rapidly during the first 20 seconds of loading, then stabilized after approximately 50 seconds. Peak deformation reached 10.5% in the medial compartment and 12.6% in the lateral compartment, while contact areas were 224 mm² (medial) and 123 mm² (lateral) after 50 seconds.

The medial and lateral knee compartments showed significantly different responses, with the lateral side experiencing greater peak deformation but the medial side having larger contact areas. These findings provide important baseline data for understanding normal cartilage function and can help improve laboratory experiments and computer models of knee joint mechanics.

HUMAN ANKLE CARTILAGE DEFORMATION AFTER DIFFERENT IN VIVO IMPACT CONDITIONS.

DOI: 10.1007/s00167-010-1159-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:52:00
This study investigated how different types of physical activities affect ankle cartilage deformation in living humans. The researchers used MRI scans to create 3D reconstructions of talar (ankle bone) cartilage in 13 healthy subjects, measuring cartilage volume before and after four different weight-bearing exercises: bilateral knee bends, unilateral knee bends, static standing on one leg, and drop jumps. All exercises caused significant cartilage volume decreases (deformation) ranging from 7.7% to 14.6%, with static standing producing the greatest deformation (14.6%) followed by drop jumps (12.5%). Importantly, static loading caused significantly more cartilage deformation than dynamic loading, challenging previous assumptions about how ankle cartilage responds to different types of mechanical stress.

PRECLINICAL EVALUATION OF THE DYNESYS POSTERIOR SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM: A NONHUMAN PRIMATE MODEL.

DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2010.04.005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:51:54
This preclinical study evaluated the Dynesys dynamic spinal stabilization system in baboons to assess its biomechanical effects and tissue compatibility over time. The researchers implanted the device across two lumbar levels in 8 baboons and performed biomechanical testing and histological analysis at acute, 6-month, and 12-month timepoints, comparing results to 6 control animals.

The key findings showed that spinal motion was initially restricted to 27% of normal but gradually recovered to 70% of normal by 12 months, with complete motion restoration after device removal. Importantly, no facet joint degeneration was observed at either the instrumented or adjacent levels throughout the study period.

However, screw loosening emerged as a concern, with 25% of screws (3 of 12) showing radiolucency at 12 months, suggesting potential long-term fixation challenges despite the otherwise favorable biomechanical and biological outcomes.

CHONDROPROTECTIVE ROLE OF THE OSMOTICALLY SENSITIVE ION CHANNEL TRANSIENT RECEPTOR POTENTIAL VANILLOID 4: AGE- AND SEX-DEPENDENT PROGRESSION OF OSTEOARTHRITIS IN TRPV4-DEFICIENT MICE.

DOI: 10.1002/art.27624 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:51:46
This study investigated whether the TRPV4 ion channel, which responds to mechanical and osmotic stimuli, plays a protective role in joint health by examining mice lacking this channel. Researchers used histological analysis, micro-CT imaging, and calcium signaling measurements to assess knee joints and cartilage cell responses in TRPV4-deficient mice at different ages compared to normal mice. The results showed that mice without TRPV4 developed severe osteoarthritis with cartilage breakdown and increased bone density, particularly in males and with advancing age, while their cartilage cells failed to respond normally to osmotic stress. These findings suggest that TRPV4-mediated calcium signaling is essential for maintaining healthy joints and preventing osteoarthritis progression.

EXERCISE INCREASES INTERLEUKIN-10 LEVELS BOTH INTRAARTICULARLY AND PERI-SYNOVIALLY IN PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL.

DOI: 10.1186/ar3064 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:51:40
This randomized controlled trial investigated how acute exercise affects inflammatory markers directly within knee joints of patients with osteoarthritis. The researchers used microdialysis catheters placed both inside the joint space and around the synovium in 31 women with knee OA, comparing those who performed resistance exercise (25 sets at 60% maximum strength) versus non-exercise controls.

Exercise significantly increased levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10), an anti-inflammatory cytokine, in both joint compartments over three hours post-exercise, while IL-10 levels remained unchanged in the control group. Additionally, cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), a marker of cartilage breakdown, decreased within the joint after exercise compared to controls.

These findings suggest that acute exercise triggers beneficial anti-inflammatory responses directly within osteoarthritic knee joints, potentially explaining why exercise is therapeutic for knee OA patients.

CONTACT MODELS OF REPAIRED ARTICULAR SURFACES: INFLUENCE OF LOADING CONDITIONS AND THE SUPERFICIAL TANGENTIAL ZONE.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-010-0247-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:51:33
This finite element study investigated how the superficial tangential zone (STZ) - the top layer of cartilage - affects the mechanical behavior of repaired cartilage under different loading conditions. The researchers used computer models that incorporated realistic cartilage properties, including collagen fiber behavior and fluid flow, and compared loading through rigid surfaces versus normal cartilage contact. The key finding was that adding a normal STZ over repaired cartilage significantly improved its mechanical performance, reducing surface compression by 15%, decreasing harmful stresses by 21%, and increasing protective fluid pressure by 13% compared to repairs without an STZ. The results suggest that recreating proper STZ function is critical for successful cartilage repair, and that using physiologically realistic loading conditions (cartilage-on-cartilage contact) provides more accurate insights than simplified rigid surface models.

CULTURING FUNCTIONAL CARTILAGE TISSUE UNDER A NOVEL BIONIC MECHANICAL CONDITION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2010.08.011 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:51:25
This study aimed to develop a more comprehensive bioreactor system that could better mimic the complex mechanical environment of natural articular cartilage for tissue engineering applications. The researchers designed a novel "rolling-compression loading bioreactor" that provides multiple types of mechanical stimulation simultaneously, unlike existing bioreactors that typically apply only one or two types of mechanical forces (such as compression, shear, or fluid flow). The authors propose that their comprehensive bioreactor system, which combines rolling and compression forces, can more accurately simulate the natural biomechanical conditions experienced by cartilage in vivo. They suggest this multi-mechanical stimulation approach will enhance the development of functional cartilage tissue constructs compared to current limited mechanical loading systems.

THE EFFECTS OF ACUTE LOADING ON T1RHO AND T2 RELAXATION TIMES OF TIBIOFEMORAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2010.10.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:51:19
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects MRI-based cartilage assessment in healthy and osteoarthritic knees. The researchers used T1ρ and T2 MRI sequences to examine knee cartilage in 20 osteoarthritis patients and 10 controls, comparing measurements taken without load versus with 50% body weight loading.

Acute loading significantly decreased both T1ρ and T2 relaxation times in the medial knee compartment (but not lateral), regardless of osteoarthritis severity, with cartilage containing small focal lesions showing the greatest changes in T1ρ values.

These findings suggest that loading-induced changes in T1ρ relaxation times may reflect cartilage biomechanical properties and could serve as a sensitive tool for detecting early cartilage deterioration before visible structural damage occurs.

DIFFERENCES IN PATELLAR CARTILAGE THICKNESS, TRANSVERSE RELAXATION TIME, AND DEFORMATIONAL BEHAVIOR: A COMPARISON OF YOUNG WOMEN WITH AND WITHOUT PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546510381363 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:51:13
This study aimed to compare patellar cartilage characteristics between young women with patellofemoral pain (PFP) and pain-free controls to understand potential cartilage-related mechanisms underlying PFP. Researchers used quantitative MRI to measure cartilage thickness and T2 relaxation times in 10 women with PFP and 10 matched controls, both at baseline and after performing 50 deep knee bends. Women with PFP showed significantly thinner baseline patellar cartilage (14% reduction in lateral facet and total cartilage) and demonstrated less cartilage deformation after exercise compared to controls (2.1% vs 8.9% thickness change in lateral facet). These findings suggest that reduced cartilage thickness and impaired mechanical responsiveness may contribute to PFP symptoms, potentially reflecting compromised cartilage function in load absorption and distribution.

[LOCOREGIONAL DEFORMATION PATTERN OF THE PATELLAR CARTILAGE AFTER DIFFERENT LOADING TYPES - HIGH-RESOLUTION 3D-MRI VOLUMETRY AT 3 T IN-VIVO].

DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1245790 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:51:07
This study aimed to identify specific deformation patterns in patellar (kneecap) cartilage after different loading activities to understand where contact and stress occur during knee movement. Researchers used high-resolution 3D MRI at 3 Tesla to examine 7 healthy kneecaps before and immediately after standardized exercises (kneeling, squatting, or knee bends), then again after 90 minutes of rest, measuring changes in cartilage thickness and volume with sophisticated image analysis techniques. The study found that cartilage deformation occurred in predictable oval-shaped areas on the peripheral medial and caudo-lateral aspects of the patella, with local thickness reductions of about 14% and overall volume changes of 2-4%, with different loading patterns producing distinct deformation zones. This research provides the first detailed in-vivo mapping of patellar cartilage contact zones, offering valuable insights into areas where stress-related cartilage degeneration and osteoarthritis may originate, which could improve biomechanical models and help understand individual knee loading properties.

DETECTION OF MECHANICAL INJURY OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE USING CONTRAST ENHANCED COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2010.12.012 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:51:00
This study investigated whether contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) can detect acute mechanical injury to articular cartilage by measuring how contrast agents diffuse into the tissue. The researchers used bovine cartilage samples, applying impact injury to some while leaving others as controls, then tracked the penetration of two contrast agents (ioxaglate and sodium iodide) over 25 hours using micro-CT imaging. The key finding was that injured cartilage showed significantly greater contrast agent penetration within just 1 hour, and measuring the diffusion flux of ioxaglate could detect injury within 30-60 minutes without waiting for full equilibrium. These results suggest CECT has potential as a diagnostic tool for early cartilage damage, though the authors note that clinical application remains challenging and requires further research.

DESIGN AND VALIDATION OF A BI-AXIAL LOADING BIOREACTOR FOR MECHANICAL STIMULATION OF ENGINEERED CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2011.01.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:50:54
This study aimed to develop and validate a computer-controlled bioreactor system capable of applying both compressive and shear forces to 3D tissue constructs for cartilage tissue engineering research. The researchers validated the system by testing the spatial and temporal accuracy of the loading platens and confirming that specimens experienced uniform deformation under bi-axial loading conditions. The bioreactor successfully delivered precise mechanical stimulation, with homogeneous deformation observed across all test specimens. The validated system is designed specifically for culturing chondrocytes in agarose hydrogels under physiological loading conditions, enabling researchers to study how cells respond to various multi-dimensional mechanical stimulation patterns over both short and long time periods.

HEMIARTHROPLASTY OF HIP JOINT: AN EXPERIMENTAL VALIDATION USING PORCINE ACETABULUM.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2011.02.140 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:50:48
This study aimed to develop and experimentally validate a finite element (FE) modeling approach for hip hemiarthroplasty using porcine acetabular cartilage. The researchers first determined cartilage material properties (elastic modulus and permeability) through curve-fitting experimental data, then created specimen-specific 3D FE models using μCT imaging and tested them against physical experiments where porcine acetabular cups were loaded with 400N using a 34mm CoCr femoral head. The FE models showed good agreement with experimental results, with peak contact stress differences of 12.42% and contact area differences of 20.69%, validating the modeling methodology for future use. The study found very high peak contact stresses (up to 14.09 MPa) and revealed that fluid load support was approximately 80% immediately after loading, which was lower than expected due to the smaller contact area and easier fluid drainage in this non-conforming joint configuration.

IN VIVO MEASURES OF CARTILAGE DEFORMATION: PATTERNS IN HEALTHY AND OSTEOARTHRITIC FEMALE KNEES USING 3T MR IMAGING.

DOI: 10.1007/s00330-011-2057-y · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:50:41
This study aimed to compare cartilage deformation patterns between healthy and osteoarthritic (OA) knees during loading using MRI imaging. The researchers used 3Tesla MRI to measure cartilage thickness in 30 women (11 healthy, 19 with OA) under both unloaded conditions and while applying 50% body weight load to the knee. Under loading, cartilage became significantly thinner in the medial tibia (-2.7%), weight-bearing medial femur (-4.1%), and lateral tibia (-1.8%), with OA knees showing greater deformation than healthy knees, particularly in medial compartments. The findings suggest that OA alters cartilage mechanical properties and that cartilage loss in OA progression is mechanically driven, as deformation patterns correspond to areas typically affected in the disease.

DEFORMATIONAL BEHAVIOUR OF KNEE CARTILAGE AND CHANGES IN SERUM CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN (COMP) AFTER RUNNING AND DROP LANDING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2011.04.012 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:50:36
This study investigated how different types of physical activity affect knee cartilage structure and a blood marker of cartilage metabolism called COMP (cartilage oligomeric matrix protein). Fourteen healthy adults performed three 30-minute sessions on separate days: drop landings from a 73cm platform, running at moderate pace, and resting, with MRI scans measuring cartilage changes and blood samples tracking COMP levels before and after each activity.

Both running and drop landing caused immediate increases in serum COMP levels (approximately 30% for both activities), while running produced significantly greater cartilage deformation than drop landing, particularly in the lateral tibia region. Interestingly, changes in COMP levels correlated with cartilage volume changes only after drop landing but not after running, suggesting that different loading patterns affect cartilage through distinct mechanical and biochemical pathways.

SPECTRUM OF INTRA-ARTICULAR FINDINGS OF THE ACUTE AND SUBACUTE PAINFUL HIP WITH MULTIPLE EPIPHYSEAL DYSPLASIA/SPONDYLOEPIPHYSEAL DYSPLASIA.

DOI: 10.1097/BPB.0b013e3283484bfb · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:50:30
This study investigated the causes of acute hip pain worsening in patients with skeletal dysplasias affecting cartilage development. The researchers examined 7 patients (10 hips) with multiple epiphyseal dysplasia or spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia who experienced significant increases in hip pain and mechanical symptoms, using arthrotomy or arthroscopy to directly visualize joint problems. They found various intra-articular pathologies including loose bodies, cartilage deterioration (chondromalacia), and labral tears, with chondral avulsion fractures specifically identified in the three patients who had sudden onset of severe symptoms during normal activities. The findings demonstrate that patients with these skeletal dysplasias are prone to developing significant joint problems that can cause acute worsening of their baseline hip symptoms.

COUPLING PLOWING OF CARTILAGE EXPLANTS WITH GENE EXPRESSION IN MODELS FOR SYNOVIAL JOINTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2011.06.021 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:50:24
This study developed an experimental system to investigate how "plowing" forces—compression combined with sliding motion that occurs in joints—affect cartilage tissue and gene expression. The researchers used bovine nasal cartilage strips subjected to 2 hours of plowing with either 50N or 100N normal force (generating tractional forces of 1.2N and 8.0N respectively) at a sliding speed of 10 mm/s, followed by gene expression analysis using quantitative PCR. Both force levels increased TIMP-1 expression (a tissue remodeling marker) by approximately 2-2.5 times, while only the higher 100N force significantly upregulated collagen type-I expression by 6.6-fold—a change associated with cartilage injury and osteoarthritis progression. The findings demonstrate that plowing forces can trigger force-dependent molecular responses in cartilage, with higher forces potentially initiating degenerative changes similar to those seen in osteoarthritic patients.

EFFECTS OF IN VIVO EXERCISE ON ANKLE CARTILAGE DEFORMATION AND RECOVERY IN HEALTHY VOLUNTEERS: AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2011.06.009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:50:15
This study investigated how ankle cartilage responds to exercise by measuring 3D volume changes in healthy volunteers using MRI imaging. Twelve participants performed 30 bilateral knee bends while researchers tracked cartilage volumes in both the talus (ankle bone) and tibia (shin bone) before exercise and at four time points afterward over 45 minutes. The results showed that talar cartilage compressed significantly after exercise (up to 10.4% volume loss) and gradually recovered to baseline within 30 minutes, while tibial cartilage showed minimal changes throughout the study period. The findings suggest that talar cartilage plays a more important role in shock absorption during weight-bearing activities compared to tibial cartilage, and that healthy ankle cartilage can fully recover from exercise-induced deformation within half an hour.

THE EFFECT OF CONTACT STRESS ON CARTILAGE FRICTION, DEFORMATION AND WEAR.

DOI: 10.1177/2041303310392626 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:50:09
This study investigated how various mechanical factors affect cartilage performance when a metal implant articulates against natural cartilage, as occurs in hip hemiarthroplasty procedures. The researchers used bovine cartilage samples sliding against metal plates under different contact stresses (0.5-16 MPa), contact areas, sliding distances, velocities, and loading durations to measure friction coefficients and cartilage deformation. The key finding was that cartilage maintained low friction (coefficient <0.35) and remained undamaged at contact stresses ≤4 MPa, but suffered severe damage and dramatically increased friction at stresses >8 MPa after 12 hours. Cartilage wear increased with higher contact stress, sliding distance, and velocity, suggesting that controlling contact pressure is critical for preserving cartilage function in hemiarthroplasty patients.

A COMPARISON OF HEALTHY HUMAN AND SWINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DYNAMIC INDENTATION MECHANICS.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-011-0338-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:50:00
This study aimed to determine whether swine articular cartilage could serve as a suitable mechanical substitute for human cartilage in research applications, given the limited availability of fresh healthy human tissue. The researchers used two non-destructive indentation test modes (fast impact and slow sinusoidal deformation) to measure stiffness properties (dynamic modulus and loss angle) in both human and swine cartilage specimens from equivalent anatomical locations. The results showed that dynamic modulus (deformation resistance) was similar between species, but human cartilage had different energy handling characteristics, with loss angles ~35% lower during fast impact and ~12% higher during slow deformation compared to swine cartilage. The authors concluded that while swine cartilage could serve as a reasonable comparison standard for evaluating engineered or synthetic repair materials, the differences in energy handling properties—likely due to age and species-specific factors—should be considered when interpreting results.

BIOREACTOR CULTIVATION AND REMODELLING SIMULATION FOR CARTILAGE REPLACEMENT MATERIAL.

DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2011.06.018 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:49:54
This study aimed to develop a quantitative method for understanding how mechanical loading affects cartilage cell activity, specifically collagen type II production, to improve cartilage replacement materials. The researchers created an advanced bioreactor system equipped with load cells and light barriers to precisely measure applied forces and loading cycles during cultivation experiments. They combined this experimental approach with finite element modeling to simulate how material properties change during cyclic mechanical stimulation. The integrated experimental-computational framework enables quantitative analysis of the relationship between mechanical loading and cartilage tissue development, which could be applied to various deformation scenarios for optimizing cartilage engineering strategies.

MENISCUS REPAIR AND TRANSPLANTATION: A COMPREHENSIVE UPDATE.

DOI: 10.2519/jospt.2012.3588 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:49:49
This comprehensive review examines current approaches to meniscus repair and transplantation for preserving joint function in active patients under 50 years old. The study discusses treatment methods for various tear types, from simple peripheral tears to complex multiplanar tears extending into the avascular central region, as well as meniscus transplantation for cases with extensive tissue damage. The authors report encouraging results for both repair techniques and transplantation procedures, with meniscus transplants showing potential to restore load-bearing function and provide protective effects on cartilage. Post-operative rehabilitation protocols emphasize avoiding excessive weight-bearing while promoting early motion and strengthening, with peripheral repairs healing faster than complex multiplanar repairs.

IMPROVED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS ATTACHMENT AND IN VITRO CARTILAGE TISSUE FORMATION ON CHITOSAN-MODIFIED POLY(L-LACTIDE-CO-EPSILON-CAPROLACTONE) SCAFFOLD.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.TEA.2011.0315 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:49:42
This study aimed to evaluate whether chitosan surface modification could improve the performance of poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL) scaffolds for cartilage tissue engineering. The researchers created porous elastomeric PLCL scaffolds with and without chitosan surface coating, then compared how human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) attached, proliferated, and formed cartilage tissue on each scaffold type using microscopy, gene expression analysis, histology, and mechanical testing. The chitosan-modified scaffolds significantly enhanced MSC attachment and distribution, promoted faster cell spreading and aggregation, and resulted in superior cartilage tissue formation as evidenced by increased cartilage-specific gene expression, better tissue architecture, and doubled mechanical strength (Young's modulus) compared to unmodified scaffolds. The chitosan modification improved cell compatibility and cartilage tissue quality without compromising the scaffold's important elastomeric properties needed for cartilage applications.

STRESS DISTRIBUTIONS AND MATERIAL PROPERTIES DETERMINED IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE FROM MRI-BASED FINITE STRAINS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2011.08.005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:49:35
This study aimed to develop a non-invasive method for determining stress distributions and material properties in articular cartilage by combining MRI-measured deformations with mathematical modeling. The researchers used displacement-encoded MRI to measure two-dimensional finite strains in juvenile porcine knee joints under known loading conditions, then applied three different constitutive models (linear Hookean, neo-Hookean, and Mooney-Rivlin) with an iterative technique to estimate stress patterns and material properties. The results showed that while all three models produced consistent stress distribution patterns, the neo-Hookean model provided the most accurate stress estimates when compared to finite element simulations, and the calculated material properties matched values reported in existing literature. This approach demonstrates a promising new technique for patient-specific, non-contact assessment of cartilage mechanical behavior that could potentially be applied clinically.

IN VIVO TIBIOFEMORAL CARTILAGE-TO-CARTILAGE CONTACT AREA OF FEMALES WITH MEDIAL OSTEOARTHRITIS UNDER ACUTE LOADING USING MRI.

DOI: 10.1002/jmri.22796 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:49:25
This study aimed to measure how acute loading affects cartilage contact areas in the knee joint and compare these areas between women with medial knee osteoarthritis and healthy controls. The researchers used MRI scanning with 3D imaging techniques to measure tibiofemoral cartilage contact areas in 10 women with moderate osteoarthritis (KL3) and 11 healthy controls under both unloaded and loaded conditions. The key findings showed that loading significantly increased contact areas in both knee compartments, with greater increases in the medial compartment, and that women with osteoarthritis had significantly larger medial compartment contact areas compared to healthy controls under both loading conditions. These results provide important baseline data for understanding how cartilage contact mechanics differ between osteoarthritic and healthy knees, which could inform future research on cartilage stress and biomechanical function.

POROELASTICITY OF CARTILAGE AT THE NANOSCALE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2011.09.011 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:49:19
This study aimed to characterize the frequency-dependent mechanical properties of cartilage at the nanoscale to understand how poroelasticity governs tissue behavior at molecular length scales. The researchers used atomic force microscopy to apply oscillatory loading (15 nm deformations) to bovine cartilage samples across frequencies of 0.2-130 Hz, then validated their experimental results against a fibril-reinforced poroelastic finite element model.

The key findings showed that the measured dynamic modulus and phase relationships matched well with poroelastic model predictions across three decades of frequency, and the peak phase frequency scaled with contact distance as predicted by linear poroelasticity theory. These results demonstrate that poroelasticity is the primary mechanism controlling cartilage mechanical behavior even at nanoscale deformations, providing a foundation for future studies investigating early-stage cartilage disease progression at the molecular level.

EFFECTS OF WNT3A AND MECHANICAL LOAD ON CARTILAGE CHONDROCYTE HOMEOSTASIS.

DOI: 10.1186/ar3536 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:49:11
This study investigated how mechanical loading and WNT3A signaling interact to affect cartilage cell (chondrocyte) function, given that both abnormal mechanical stress and genetic factors involving WNT signaling are linked to osteoarthritis development. The researchers exposed chondrocytes to WNT3A protein for 24 hours, then applied cyclic tensile strain (7.5%, 1 Hz) for 30 minutes, measuring changes in β-catenin signaling and gene expression for cartilage matrix components and degrading enzymes. They found that while mechanical loading alone promoted healthy cartilage gene expression (collagen II, aggrecan, SOX9), the combination of WNT3A and mechanical load suppressed these beneficial effects and instead enhanced the expression of cartilage-degrading enzymes (MMP3, ADAMTS-4, ADAMTS-5). These results suggest that WNT signaling can transform normally protective mechanical loading into a harmful stimulus that promotes cartilage breakdown, providing insight into how genetic predisposition and mechanical factors may interact in osteoarthritis development.

ASSOCIATION OF MR RELAXATION AND CARTILAGE DEFORMATION IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.22031 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:49:03
This study investigated how cartilage MR relaxation times relate to the mechanical behavior of knee cartilage under loading in women over 40 with and without osteoarthritis (OA). Researchers used 3T MRI with a custom loading device to measure T1ρ and T2 relaxation times and cartilage deformation in 20 OA patients and 10 healthy controls, comparing images taken with the knee at 20° flexion both with and without 50% body weight compression.

Key findings showed that OA patients had significantly larger contact areas in the medial compartment under both loaded and unloaded conditions compared to healthy subjects, with the medial compartment showing greater cartilage thickness changes than the lateral compartment during loading (-5.3% vs -1.9%). The study demonstrated a clear relationship between MR relaxation times (T1ρ and T2) and the mechanical response of cartilage to physiological loading, with superficial cartilage layers showing higher relaxation time changes than full-thickness measurements in both groups.

BIOMECHANICAL FACTORS IN OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2011.11.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:48:57
This review examines how mechanical forces influence joint health and osteoarthritis development. The authors synthesized existing research on biomechanical risk factors, protective interventions, and the cellular mechanisms by which cartilage cells (chondrocytes) respond to mechanical stress. Key findings show that abnormal joint loading from obesity, joint malalignment, trauma, or instability increases osteoarthritis risk, while exercise and weight loss are generally protective. The study highlights that chondrocytes detect mechanical signals through specialized cellular structures including ion channels and matrix connections, suggesting that understanding these mechanotransduction pathways could lead to new osteoarthritis treatments.

EFFECTS OF UNLOADING ON KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE T1RHO AND T2 MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING RELAXATION TIMES: A CASE SERIES.

DOI: 10.2519/jospt.2012.3975 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:48:51
This case series investigated how unloading affects knee cartilage composition in humans by measuring T1rho and T2 MRI relaxation times in 10 patients who required 6-8 weeks of non-weight bearing for lower limb injuries. The researchers performed quantitative MRI scans at three time points: before surgery (baseline), immediately after the non-weight bearing period, and after 4 weeks of resumed full weight bearing. The study found that unloading caused 5-12% increases in T1rho relaxation times across all knee cartilage regions, with the greatest changes occurring in load-bearing areas, suggesting alterations in proteoglycan content. Most importantly, these compositional changes were largely reversible, with relaxation times returning to near-baseline levels after just 4 weeks of resumed weight bearing.

NOCTURNAL CHANGES IN KNEE CARTILAGE THICKNESS IN YOUNG HEALTHY ADULTS.

DOI: 10.1159/000333456 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:48:45
This study investigated how knee cartilage thickness changes overnight and whether exercise-induced cartilage deformation differs between morning and evening in healthy young adults. The researchers used MRI to measure cartilage thickness in 17 volunteers (age 23.5 ± 3.0 years) before and after exercise (knee bends or static loading) in both evening and morning sessions, with participants remaining unloaded overnight between measurements. The key finding was that cartilage thickness significantly increased overnight by 2-8% across different knee regions (patella: +2.4%, medial tibia: +8.4%, lateral tibia: +6.2%), with no differences between men and women. While morning exercise appeared to cause slightly greater cartilage deformation than evening exercise, this difference was not statistically significant, suggesting that overnight unloading allows cartilage to recover and potentially makes it more susceptible to subsequent loading.

TRANSIENT AND MICROSCALE DEFORMATIONS AND STRAINS MEASURED UNDER EXOGENOUS LOADING BY NONINVASIVE MAGNETIC RESONANCE.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0033463 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:48:39
This study aimed to develop an advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique to measure real-time deformation and strain in materials and biological tissues under mechanical loading. The researchers synchronized external mechanical loading with rapid displacement-encoded MRI to achieve high-resolution measurements, testing the method on silicone gel materials and human knee joints. The technique achieved impressive spatial resolution of 100 micrometers and temporal resolution of 2.25 milliseconds, with displacement precision of 11 micrometers and strain precision of 0.1% - approaching cellular-level measurement scales. The method demonstrated a five-fold improvement in imaging speed compared to previous technologies and successfully visualized deformation in human knee joints, suggesting potential for future in vivo mechanical imaging of cartilage and other load-bearing tissues.

TRANSPORT PHENOMENA IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE CRYOPRESERVATION AS PREDICTED BY THE MODIFIED TRIPHASIC MODEL AND THE EFFECT OF NATURAL INHOMOGENEITIES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2011.12.058 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:48:33
This study aimed to predict how cryoprotective agents (CPAs) distribute through articular cartilage during cryopreservation and how this affects cartilage structure and cell survival. The researchers used an advanced biomechanical model that accounts for cartilage deformation and shrinkage (unlike simpler diffusion models), and incorporated real tissue variations in water content and charge density measured by MRI. The simulations revealed significant mechanical strain develops throughout all cartilage layers during CPA loading, causing the tissue to dehydrate and shrink. Importantly, chondrocytes (cartilage cells) experience substantial volume loss during this process, with cells in the middle and deep zones of cartilage being most severely affected.

DOES PRIOR SUSTAINED COMPRESSION MAKE CARTILAGE-ON-BONE MORE VULNERABLE TO TRAUMA?

DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2012.03.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:48:27
This study examined whether sustained compression loading makes cartilage-on-bone tissue more susceptible to injury from sudden impact trauma. Researchers subjected bovine knee cap samples to prolonged compression (creep loading) at 4 MPa for varying durations, then immediately struck them with a pendulum device delivering 2.2 J of impact energy. The results showed that prior compression made the tissue stiffer during impact (higher peak forces, shorter contact times) and significantly increased structural damage severity. Cartilage cracks penetrated deeper into the tissue layers, often reaching the calcified cartilage and causing delamination, hairline fractures, and damage to blood vessels in the underlying bone.

THE IMPACT OF FORCED JOINT EXERCISE ON LUBRICIN BIOSYNTHESIS FROM ARTICULAR CARTILAGE FOLLOWING ACL TRANSECTION AND INTRA-ARTICULAR LUBRICIN'S EFFECT IN EXERCISED JOINTS FOLLOWING ACL TRANSECTION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2012.04.021 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:48:21
This study investigated how forced exercise after knee injury affects lubricin (a joint lubricating protein) production and whether lubricin injection could protect cartilage damage. Researchers used rats with surgically severed ACL ligaments, comparing groups with and without forced exercise (rotating cylinder, 30 min daily) over 3-5 weeks, and testing the protective effects of injected human lubricin. The key findings showed that exercise after ACL injury significantly reduced the cartilage's natural lubricin production, increased cartilage damage scores, and caused more cell death in the joint surface. However, a single injection of purified lubricin into exercised injured joints restored lubricin gene expression, reduced markers of cartilage breakdown, and preserved cartilage cell viability, suggesting lubricin treatment could protect against exercise-induced cartilage damage following acute knee injury.

CHONDROCYTE DEFORMATIONS AS A FUNCTION OF TIBIOFEMORAL JOINT LOADING PREDICTED BY A GENERALIZED HIGH-THROUGHPUT PIPELINE OF MULTI-SCALE SIMULATIONS.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0037538 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:48:14
This study developed a computational pipeline to understand how knee joint loading translates into deformation of individual cartilage cells (chondrocytes). The researchers used a multi-scale modeling approach that combined large-scale finite element models of the tibiofemoral joint with microscopic models of cartilage tissue containing chondrocytes, applying joint-level loads (one body weight compression) to predict cellular-level deformations.

The analysis revealed that chondrocytes experience amplified deformations compared to the overall tissue-level strains, with cells in a realistic 11-cell cartilage model showing less deformation but greater variability compared to an idealized single-cell model. The scalable computational pipeline successfully linked joint mechanics to cellular responses and can be adapted for other multi-scale biomechanical problems.

THE ACUTE EFFECT OF RUNNING ON KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND MENISCUS MAGNETIC RESONANCE RELAXATION TIMES IN YOUNG HEALTHY ADULTS.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546512449816 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:48:08
This study investigated how 30 minutes of running immediately affects knee cartilage and meniscus properties in healthy young adults using advanced MRI techniques. Twenty volunteers (aged 22-35 years) underwent 3T MRI scans before and immediately after running, with researchers measuring T1ρ and T2 relaxation times to assess tissue changes in response to loading. The results showed significant reductions in both relaxation times across most cartilage regions after running, with the greatest changes occurring in the medial tibiofemoral (9.4% T1ρ reduction) and patellofemoral compartments (12.5% T1ρ reduction), while the superficial cartilage layer showed more pronounced changes than deeper layers. These findings suggest that running alters cartilage water content and collagen fiber organization, with the medial and patellofemoral compartments bearing the greatest mechanical load during this activity.

SERUM CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN ACCUMULATION DECREASES SIGNIFICANTLY AFTER 12 WEEKS OF RUNNING BUT NOT SWIMMING AND CYCLING TRAINING - A RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIAL.

DOI: 10.1016/j.knee.2012.06.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:48:00
This randomized controlled trial investigated whether different types of exercise training could improve cartilage function by reducing mechanical stress responses. The researchers assigned 44 healthy males to 12 weeks of running, cycling, swimming, or control groups, measuring serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) levels before, immediately after, and 30 minutes after a standardized 30-minute walking test both before and after the training period. Initially, all participants showed increased COMP levels (indicating cartilage stress) after the walking test, but after 12 weeks of training, only the running group maintained stable COMP levels during the walking challenge while other groups continued to show increases. The findings suggest that weight-bearing, high-impact exercise like running promotes functional adaptation of joint cartilage, making it more resistant to mechanical stress compared to non-weight-bearing activities like swimming and cycling.

THE ROLE OF THE SUPERFICIAL REGION IN DETERMINING THE DYNAMIC PROPERTIES OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2012.08.005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:47:51
This study investigated how the superficial (top) layer of articular cartilage affects the tissue's mechanical properties during loading. The researchers tested cartilage samples from pig knee joints using static and dynamic compression tests, comparing intact samples with samples that had their superficial region removed, and used mathematical modeling to assess fluid flow properties. The key finding was that although the superficial region itself is softer than deeper cartilage layers, removing it significantly reduced the overall dynamic stiffness of the remaining tissue. The superficial region acts as a low-permeability barrier that helps trap fluid within the cartilage during loading, and its removal impairs the tissue's ability to maintain fluid-based load support, highlighting why superficial cartilage damage in early arthritis can compromise the function of the entire tissue.

QUANTITATIVE IMAGING OF YOUNG'S MODULUS OF SOFT TISSUES FROM ULTRASOUND WATER JET INDENTATION: A FINITE ELEMENT STUDY.

DOI: 10.1155/2012/979847 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:47:44
This study aimed to develop a quantitative method for measuring Young's modulus (tissue stiffness) in soft tissues using a novel ultrasound water jet indentation system. The researchers created a 3D finite element computer model to simulate how tissues deform under water jet pressure and derived an improved version of Hayes' equation by incorporating a new scaling factor that accounts for tissue properties and deformation characteristics. The model successfully predicted tissue stiffness with high accuracy (error ≤2%), providing a foundation for non-contact mechanical property imaging of soft tissues. This advancement could enable clinicians to quantitatively assess tissue mechanical properties, particularly for early detection of cartilage degeneration, without direct physical contact with the tissue.

MECHANICAL STRESS AND ATP SYNTHESIS ARE COUPLED BY MITOCHONDRIAL OXIDANTS IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.22223 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:47:38
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects energy production in cartilage by examining the relationship between physical stress, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), and ATP synthesis. The researchers applied controlled mechanical loading to bovine cartilage samples for one hour and measured ROS production and ATP levels, while using specific inhibitors (rotenone and MitoQ) to block mitochondrial function and ROS activity. They found that mechanical loading stimulates mitochondrial ROS production, which in turn drives ATP synthesis - when mitochondrial function or ROS were blocked, both ROS production and ATP synthesis were significantly reduced. These findings suggest that mitochondria play a crucial role in how cartilage adapts metabolically to mechanical stress, with implications for understanding both normal cartilage function and osteoarthritis development.

DEPTH-DEPENDENT ANISOTROPY OF THE MICROMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF THE EXTRACELLULAR AND PERICELLULAR MATRICES OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EVALUATED VIA ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2012.09.003 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:47:32
This study aimed to characterize the microscale mechanical properties of articular cartilage's extracellular matrix (ECM) and pericellular matrix (PCM) across different depths and loading directions. The researchers used atomic force microscopy to measure elastic properties in porcine cartilage samples that were cut parallel and perpendicular to the split-line direction (the preferred collagen fiber orientation) across the superficial, middle, and deep zones. The results showed that ECM stiffness varied significantly with direction in the superficial and deep zones, while the middle zone showed less directional variation. In contrast, PCM elastic properties remained relatively uniform across depths but still showed directional dependence, providing new evidence that cartilage mechanical anisotropy extends to the microscale level where cells reside.

CHONDROCYTE DEFORMATION UNDER EXTREME TISSUE STRAIN IN TWO REGIONS OF THE RABBIT KNEE JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2012.09.021 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:47:27
This study investigated how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) deform when cartilage tissue is compressed under loads ranging from normal to extreme (0-80% strain) in two different regions of rabbit knee joints (femoral condyles and patellae). The researchers used intact cartilage preparations to measure both local tissue strains around cells and the actual deformation of the cells themselves under various loading conditions.

The key findings showed that chondrocytes were consistently protected from the full mechanical loads applied to the tissue - the cells experienced much smaller strains than the surrounding tissue, particularly under high loads where the local matrix environment appeared to shield cells from potentially damaging deformation. Additionally, chondrocytes from different joint regions (condyles vs. patellae) showed distinctly different mechanical responses, and intact tissue preparations protected cells much better than previous studies using cartilage explants had suggested.

HOW THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE MATRIX CAN INFLUENCE THE MICROSTRUCTURAL RESPONSE OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE TO COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.3109/03008207.2012.746321 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:47:19
This study investigated how different types of cartilage matrix damage affect the tissue's microscopic response to mechanical compression. The researchers used a specialized compression test with an indenter containing a central pore on healthy cartilage, surface-damaged cartilage, and degenerated cartilage samples, then examined the deformed tissues under microscopy. The results showed that both surface layer removal and tissue degeneration significantly reduced the cartilage's ability to deform normally under load, with less fibril crimping and reduced matrix shearing compared to healthy tissue. These findings indicate that matrix damage makes cartilage more vulnerable to further deformation and impairs its capacity to distribute mechanical forces effectively across the tissue.

NONINVASIVE DUALMRI-BASED STRAINS VARY BY DEPTH AND REGION IN HUMAN OSTEOARTHRITIC ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2012.11.009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:47:13
This study aimed to noninvasively measure mechanical strain patterns in human osteoarthritic cartilage using MRI and determine how these patterns relate to tissue depth, joint location, and disease severity. The researchers used a specialized MRI technique called DUALMRI at 14.1 Tesla to measure 2D deformation in cartilage samples from knee replacement surgeries while applying controlled compression, then compared the results to histological assessments of osteoarthritis severity.

The key findings showed that all strain types (von Mises, axial, and transverse) varied significantly with tissue depth, with the largest strains occurring in samples from high-load bearing areas like the tibial plateau and anterior condyle near exposed bone. Additionally, late-stage osteoarthritic cartilage showed significantly greater strains than early- or mid-stage disease, suggesting this MRI-based approach could potentially serve as a diagnostic tool for detecting cartilage deterioration before it becomes visible through conventional imaging methods.

CELL DEFORMATION BEHAVIOR IN MECHANICALLY LOADED RABBIT ARTICULAR CARTILAGE 4 WEEKS AFTER ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT TRANSECTION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2012.12.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:47:07
This study investigated how cartilage cells (chondrocytes) respond to mechanical loading in the early stages of osteoarthritis using a rabbit model where the anterior cruciate ligament was surgically cut (ACLT). The researchers used a specialized microscopy system to apply controlled mechanical pressure (2 MPa) to cartilage samples 4 weeks after ACLT surgery, measuring changes in cell volume and shape, along with tissue composition including collagen and proteoglycan content.

The key finding was that chondrocytes in osteoarthritic cartilage showed dramatically different responses to loading compared to healthy cartilage - cells in ACLT cartilage swelled by 24% under mechanical load, while cells in healthy cartilage compressed by 5.3%. The altered cell behavior was associated with disrupted collagen fiber orientation and reduced proteoglycan content in the osteoarthritic tissue, suggesting that fundamental changes in how cartilage cells respond to mechanical stress occur very early in osteoarthritis development.

INFLUENCE OF BASAL SUPPORT AND EARLY LOADING ON BONE CARTILAGE HEALING IN PRESS-FITTED OSTEOCHONDRAL AUTOGRAFTS.

DOI: 10.1007/s00167-013-2453-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:47:00
This study investigated whether providing basal bone support for osteochondral autografts would improve healing outcomes when combined with immediate weight-bearing after surgery. The researchers compared press-fitted grafts with full basal support ("bottomed") versus those with a 2mm gap underneath ("unbottomed") in 24 sheep, analyzing healing at 3 and 6 months using histological methods. At 3 months, unbottomed grafts showed significantly more subsidence, less bone mineralization, and poorer cartilage and bone healing compared to bottomed grafts, though these differences disappeared by 6 months. The findings suggest that ensuring complete basal support during osteochondral autograft procedures may allow for early mobilization while reducing graft subsidence and improving initial healing integration.

DYNAMIC MECHANICAL COMPRESSION OF DEVITALIZED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DOES NOT ACTIVATE LATENT TGF-Β.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2013.03.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:46:53
This study investigated whether mechanical compression of articular cartilage can activate latent TGF-β stored in the tissue's extracellular matrix, similar to how joint motion activates TGF-β in synovial fluid. The researchers subjected 84 devitalized cartilage samples to dynamic compression at two strain levels (2% and 7.5%) for up to 15 hours and measured TGF-β activation over time. The results showed that cartilage contains high levels of TGF-β (68.5 ng/ml) with over 98% in latent form, but dynamic compression did not significantly increase active TGF-β levels compared to unloaded controls. The findings suggest that mechanical forces alone cannot activate matrix-bound latent TGF-β in cartilage, indicating that chondrocytes likely rely on chemical pathways for TGF-β activation rather than mechanical stimulation.

ACUTE CARTILAGE LOADING RESPONSES AFTER AN IN VIVO SQUATTING EXERCISE IN PEOPLE WITH DOUBTFUL TO MILD KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A CASE-CONTROL STUDY.

DOI: 10.2522/ptj.20120491 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:46:48
This case-control study investigated how cartilage responds to exercise in people with early knee osteoarthritis compared to healthy controls. The researchers used 3D MRI to measure cartilage volume changes in 18 people with mild osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence grades 1-2) and 18 healthy middle-aged controls before and after a 30-repetition squatting exercise, with follow-up scans at 15-minute intervals. Both groups showed similar cartilage deformation patterns after exercise, with 3-4% volume reductions in knee cartilage that returned to baseline levels within 15 minutes of recovery. People with early osteoarthritis showed a tendency toward slightly larger deformations and slower recovery times, but the overall cartilage loading response was remarkably similar between groups.

PHYSEAL CARTILAGE EXHIBITS RAPID CONSOLIDATION AND RECOVERY IN INTACT KNEES THAT ARE PHYSIOLOGICALLY LOADED.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2013.03.026 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:46:41
This study investigated how growth plate (physeal) cartilage deforms and recovers under realistic loading conditions compared to joint (articular) cartilage. The researchers used high-resolution MRI to continuously scan intact knee joints every 2.5 minutes during cyclic loading, measuring volume changes in both types of cartilage using a custom automated analysis program.

The key finding was that physeal cartilage consolidates and recovers much faster than articular cartilage (time constants of ~1.3-1.6 minutes versus 5.5-17.7 minutes respectively). The authors suggest this rapid behavior occurs because physeal cartilage can quickly exchange fluid with adjacent bone marrow spaces, potentially limiting the buildup of protective fluid pressure within the growth plate during prolonged compression and possibly contributing to premature growth plate closure under chronic loading.

MULTIPHASIC FINITE ELEMENT FRAMEWORK FOR MODELING HYDRATED MIXTURES WITH MULTIPLE NEUTRAL AND CHARGED SOLUTES.

DOI: 10.1115/1.4024823 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:46:34
This study developed a comprehensive computational framework within the open-source software FEBio to model the complex behavior of biological tissues as multiphasic materials containing charged solid matrices, solvents, and multiple neutral or charged solutes. The key methodological advances include novel approaches for modeling solute exclusion from pore spaces, incorporating electrostatic interactions through partition coefficients, and solving the electroneutrality condition as a polynomial equation to determine electric potential regardless of the number of charged solutes present. The framework was successfully verified against established models (Kedem-Katchalsky cell osmosis, Donnan osmotic swelling, electrolyte current flow) and demonstrated its capability by predicting experimental phenomena in cartilage, including current-generated stress and the effects of salt cation charge on creep response. This generalized modeling tool enables researchers to analyze the mechanoelectrochemical behavior of biological tissues and cells, providing a foundation for future studies of tissue growth and remodeling.

OPERATIVE TREATMENT OF OSTEOCHONDRAL LESIONS OF THE TALUS.

DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.L.00773 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:46:27
This review examines surgical treatment options for osteochondral lesions of the talus, which occur in up to 50% of acute ankle injuries and are common among athletes. The authors describe four main operative approaches: (1) arthroscopic bone marrow stimulation techniques (microfracture/drilling) that recruit stem cells to form fibrocartilage repair tissue, (2) autologous osteochondral transplantation using grafts from the patient's knee to replace defects with native hyaline cartilage and bone, (3) osteochondral allograft transplantation for large lesions using size-matched donor tissue, and (4) autologous chondrocyte implantation involving a two-stage procedure to culture and reimplant the patient's own cartilage cells. The key findings indicate that while bone marrow stimulation is widely used, concerns exist about the durability of fibrocartilage repair tissue, autologous transplantation provides native tissue but carries donor site morbidity risks, allograft transplantation should be reserved for large cystic lesions or salvage cases, and chondrocyte implantation theoretically produces hyaline-like repair tissue but requires a complex two-stage procedure.

BIOMECHANICAL EVALUATION OF MENISCAL ROOT REPAIR: A PORCINE STUDY.

DOI: 10.1007/s00167-013-2589-6 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:46:20
This study investigated whether transtibial pull-out sutures effectively restore normal knee cartilage loading patterns after meniscal root repair using a porcine model. The researchers first tested suture elongation under repetitive loading (100 cycles, 1-10 N) in isolated menisci, then evaluated cartilage deformation patterns in whole knee joints (50 cycles, 100 N) across three conditions: intact root, detached root, and repaired root. The key findings showed that repetitive loading caused significant suture elongation (median 3.8 mm), and while root detachment increased abnormal cartilage stress patterns, surgical repair failed to restore normal cartilage loading. These results suggest that current transtibial pull-out suture techniques may be inadequate for meniscal root repair due to construct loosening under cyclic loads, potentially compromising healing outcomes.

STRAIN-DEPENDENT OXIDANT RELEASE IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE ORIGINATES FROM MITOCHONDRIA.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-013-0518-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:46:14
This study investigated how mechanical loading of articular cartilage generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) from mitochondria and whether this response depends on the amount of tissue deformation. The researchers applied different compressive stresses (0-1.0 MPa) to cartilage samples and measured both tissue strain and ROS levels using fluorescent imaging, while also testing the effects of various inhibitors. The key finding was that ROS production increased linearly with the magnitude of cartilage strain (R² = 0.87), with significant cell death occurring when strains exceeded 40%, while hydrostatic stress that caused minimal deformation had no effect. The results demonstrate that mitochondrial ROS generation is directly related to cartilage deformation magnitude, suggesting this pathway plays an important role in how cartilage cells respond to mechanical loading.

IDENTIFICATION OF CARTILAGE INJURY USING QUANTITATIVE MULTIPHOTON MICROSCOPY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2013.10.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:46:07
This study aimed to develop a new imaging method using multiphoton microscopy (MPM) to detect early cartilage injury and cell death patterns that could lead to post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The researchers used equine cartilage samples subjected to compressive injury (30 MPa over 1 second) and imaged them with MPM using FDA-approved sodium fluorescein dye to visualize live and dead cells without tissue sectioning. The key findings showed that cell death clustered into distinct circular or elliptical patterns, with only 26% of cells near matrix cracks remaining viable one hour after injury. This technique represents the first successful use of MPM for evaluating cartilage injury at the cellular level in intact tissue, offering potential for early clinical detection of cartilage damage that cannot be identified by other imaging methods.

EVALUATION OF A SUBJECT-SPECIFIC FINITE-ELEMENT MODEL OF THE EQUINE METACARPOPHALANGEAL JOINT UNDER PHYSIOLOGICAL LOAD.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2013.10.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:46:00
This study aimed to develop and validate a subject-specific finite element model of the horse metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint to understand how mechanical loading contributes to common racing injuries. The researchers created a detailed computer model incorporating cartilage, ligaments, muscles, and bones, then validated it against cadaver experiments and tested it using data from horses moving at different speeds (walking, trotting, cantering). The model accurately predicted joint behavior within 5% of experimental measurements and showed that cartilage stresses increased with faster gaits, with the highest stresses occurring in areas that commonly suffer injury in racehorses. The findings suggest that cartilage geometry and stiffness have major impacts on stress distribution, indicating this modeling approach could help identify injury-prone loading patterns and develop prevention strategies.

INHIBITION OF CELL-MATRIX ADHESIONS PREVENTS CARTILAGE CHONDROCYTE DEATH FOLLOWING IMPACT INJURY.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.22523 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:45:55
This study investigated whether blocking cell-matrix adhesion proteins could prevent cartilage cell death after impact injury. The researchers treated cartilage samples with inhibitors targeting focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Src family kinase (SFK) before applying death-inducing impact loads, then measured cell survival immediately and 24 hours later using microscopy. Treatment with these inhibitors significantly improved chondrocyte survival from 59% to 77-82% immediately after impact, and from 34% to 45-56% at 24 hours compared to untreated controls. The findings suggest that impact-induced cartilage cell death occurs through a pathway involving cell adhesion receptors and their associated signaling proteins, offering potential targets for preventing cartilage damage following joint trauma.

MECHANICAL LOADING STIMULATES CHONDROGENESIS VIA THE PKA/CREB-SOX9 AND PP2A PATHWAYS IN CHICKEN MICROMASS CULTURES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2013.12.001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:45:48
This study investigated how mechanical forces promote cartilage formation during early development by examining the cellular signaling pathways involved in mechanotransduction. The researchers used chicken embryo cells grown in high-density cultures and applied controlled mechanical loading (cyclic pressure at 0.05 Hz for 30 minutes) using a custom bioreactor during the critical differentiation period on days 2-3 of culture.

Mechanical loading significantly enhanced cartilage matrix production and increased expression of key cartilage components (collagen II, aggrecan) by activating the PKA/CREB-SOX9 signaling pathway, while simultaneously reducing PP2A phosphatase activity. These findings demonstrate that appropriate mechanical stimulation promotes cartilage formation through coordinated activation and inhibition of specific molecular pathways, providing insights into how physical forces guide cartilage development and potentially informing therapeutic strategies for cartilage repair.

CHANGES IN MR RELAXATION TIMES OF THE MENISCUS WITH ACUTE LOADING: AN IN VIVO PILOT STUDY IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1002/jmri.24546 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:45:41
This pilot study investigated how knee loading affects meniscal tissue properties in osteoarthritis (OA) by measuring changes in MRI relaxation times (T1ρ and T2) before and after applying 50% body weight compression. The researchers used a 3T MRI scanner with a custom loading device to examine 20 women with knee OA and 10 healthy age-matched controls, analyzing three zones across the meniscal width.

Key findings showed that OA subjects had elevated baseline T1ρ and T2 times in the outer and middle zones of the medial meniscus compared to controls, indicating tissue degradation. Importantly, healthy controls demonstrated significantly greater changes in relaxation times with loading compared to OA subjects (15.1% vs 8.3% for T1ρ and 11.5% vs 6.9% for T2), suggesting impaired load transmission function in osteoarthritic menisci.

The authors conclude that these loading-induced changes in MRI relaxation times may serve as early biomechanical biomarkers for detecting meniscal dysfunction and predicting increased load transmission to underlying cartilage in knee OA.

ALTERED MECHANO-CHEMICAL ENVIRONMENT IN HIP ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: EFFECT OF OBESITY.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-013-0545-5 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:45:34
This study investigated how obesity-related metabolic changes affect cartilage health in the hip joint, specifically examining the balance between insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and its binding proteins (IGFBP) that regulate cartilage matrix production. The researchers developed a computational model incorporating the competitive binding between IGF-1 and IGFBP, combined with gait analysis data from obese and normal-weight individuals to simulate realistic mechanical loading during walking. The model predicted that the altered IGF-1/IGFBP ratio found in obese individuals (lower IGF-1, higher IGFBP) reduces cartilage glycosaminoglycan concentration by up to 18% compared to normal-weight individuals, while moderate physical activity like walking provided modest benefits for cartilage matrix production. These findings suggest that metabolic imbalances in obesity, beyond just increased mechanical loading, contribute significantly to hip cartilage degradation and should be considered in understanding obesity-related osteoarthritis development.

DESIGN AND VALIDATION OF AN IN VITRO LOADING SYSTEM FOR THE COMBINED APPLICATION OF CYCLIC COMPRESSION AND SHEAR TO 3D CHONDROCYTES-SEEDED AGAROSE CONSTRUCTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2013.11.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:45:27
This study aimed to design and validate a specialized bioreactor system capable of applying combined compression and shear forces to 3D cartilage tissue constructs, mimicking the complex loading conditions that cartilage experiences in joints. The researchers developed a computer-controlled system with precise gripping mechanisms and used finite element analysis to optimize the design, followed by mechanical testing to validate its performance. The system successfully delivered accurate and reproducible bi-axial loading at 1 Hz for up to 48 hours without damaging cell viability or construct integrity. This validated bioreactor provides a valuable tool for systematically studying how cartilage cells respond to physiologically relevant mechanical environments, which is crucial for developing effective cartilage tissue engineering strategies.

SUBPHYSIOLOGICAL COMPRESSIVE LOADING REDUCES APOPTOSIS FOLLOWING ACUTE IMPACT INJURY IN A PORCINE CARTILAGE MODEL.

DOI: 10.1177/1941738113504379 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:45:21
This study investigated whether controlled compressive loading after cartilage injury could protect cartilage cells from death in a porcine model. The researchers used a drop tower to create impact injuries in cartilage plugs from pig knees, then applied two different levels of cyclic compression (0.5 or 0.8 MPa) for two 30-minute cycles, measuring cell viability and death markers 24 hours later. The key finding was that moderate compression at 0.5 MPa significantly reduced cell death (apoptosis) and improved cell survival compared to injured cartilage that received no compression. These results suggest that carefully designed therapeutic exercises delivering subphysiological loading soon after cartilage injury might help minimize damage and potentially reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis.

TRPV4-MEDIATED MECHANOTRANSDUCTION REGULATES THE METABOLIC RESPONSE OF CHONDROCYTES TO DYNAMIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1319569111 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:45:15
This study investigated whether the TRPV4 calcium channel mediates how cartilage cells (chondrocytes) respond to mechanical loading, which is essential for maintaining healthy joint cartilage. The researchers used chondrocytes embedded in agarose gel and applied dynamic compression while either blocking TRPV4 function with inhibitors or activating it with chemical agonists, then measured gene expression, matrix production, and mechanical properties. They found that TRPV4 is essential for chondrocytes to respond properly to mechanical loading - blocking TRPV4 prevented the beneficial effects of compression on cartilage-building genes and matrix formation, while chemically activating TRPV4 alone (without mechanical loading) produced similar beneficial effects. These findings suggest that TRPV4 calcium signaling is a key mechanism by which mechanical forces maintain cartilage health, potentially opening new therapeutic approaches for osteoarthritis treatment and cartilage tissue engineering.

ONLY FIXATION FOR CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS: REPORT OF EARLY RESULTS WITH A PRELIMINARY EXPERIENCE WITH 6 CASES.

DOI: 10.4103/0974-8237.128531 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:45:09
This study evaluated a fixation-only surgical approach for treating cervical spondylosis with spinal canal stenosis in 6 patients over a 4-month period in 2013. The surgical technique involved transarticular screw fixation of affected spinal segments without decompression, using cartilage removal, bone grafting, and placement of 1-2 screws per facet joint at 2-4 spinal levels per patient. All patients showed clinical improvement at an average 6-month follow-up (range 3-8 months) as measured by standardized outcome scales, with no patient experiencing symptom worsening. The authors suggest that spinal instability is a key factor in cervical spondylosis pathogenesis and that fixation alone can provide effective treatment through stabilization and促进arthrodesis.

RESPONSE OF KNEE CARTILAGE T1RHO AND T2 RELAXATION TIMES TO IN VIVO MECHANICAL LOADING IN INDIVIDUALS WITH AND WITHOUT KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2014.04.017 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:45:02
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects cartilage quality measurements (T1ρ and T2 relaxation times) in knee joints of people with and without osteoarthritis (OA). The researchers used MRI to scan 137 subjects under two conditions - unloaded and loaded at 50% body weight - analyzing different cartilage regions including superficial and deep layers across the knee joint compartments. Loading caused significant changes in relaxation times throughout the knee cartilage, with distinct patterns: tibial cartilage showed overall reductions in T1ρ values, while femoral cartilage demonstrated opposite responses between superficial (decreased) and deep (increased) layers for both T1ρ and T2 measurements. Importantly, people with OA showed much larger changes in response to loading (13-19%) compared to healthy individuals (3-13%), suggesting that osteoarthritic cartilage has compromised ability to retain water and distribute mechanical forces effectively.

DEFORMATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DURING STATIC LOADING OF A KNEE JOINT--EXPERIMENTAL AND FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2014.04.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:44:56
This study aimed to measure cartilage deformation and meniscal movement in a human knee during static loading (standing) and validate these measurements against a computer model. The researchers used high-resolution cone beam CT scanning with contrast agent to image the knee at 0, 1, 5, and 30 minutes of standing, then compared results to a subject-specific 3D finite element model created from MRI data. The experiments showed that 80% of cartilage compression occurred immediately upon loading, with continued slow deformation over 30 minutes, and the computer model accurately predicted both cartilage strains and meniscus movement. The study found that cartilage fibril network stiffness primarily controlled the amount of deformation, while the non-fibrillar matrix stiffness mainly influenced the rate of continued compression over time.

THE EFFECT OF COMPRESSIVE LOADING MAGNITUDE ON IN SITU CHONDROCYTE CALCIUM SIGNALING.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-014-0594-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:44:49
This study investigated how different levels of mechanical loading affect calcium signaling in cartilage cells (chondrocytes) within intact cartilage tissue. The researchers applied compressive loads of 10-40% strain to rabbit knee cartilage samples while using calcium-sensitive dyes and continuous imaging to monitor cellular responses. They found that calcium signaling occurred primarily during the active loading phase and dramatically increased once tissue strain exceeded approximately 10%, with a trend toward more cells responding as loading magnitude increased. These findings help identify the mechanical thresholds that trigger calcium-dependent cellular processes important for cartilage health and may inform understanding of osteoarthritis development.

A VISCOELASTIC POROMECHANICAL MODEL OF THE KNEE JOINT IN LARGE COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2014.04.004 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:44:44
This study aimed to develop a comprehensive computational model to predict how the knee joint responds to large compressive forces over time, accounting for the fluid flow and time-dependent behavior of cartilage and menisci. The researchers created a finite element model incorporating viscoelastic and poromechanical properties, modeling cartilage and menisci as fiber-reinforced porous materials and ligaments as hyperelastic solids, then simulated two loading scenarios: creep (constant load) and stress relaxation (constant displacement). The model revealed that while contact pressure patterns were similar in both scenarios, load distribution mechanisms differed significantly—during creep loading, pressure shifted from cartilage-to-cartilage contact toward cartilage-meniscus contact over time, effectively transferring load to the menisci, whereas stress relaxation showed uniform pressure decreases at all contact sites. These findings highlight the important time-dependent load-sharing role of menisci and demonstrate how different loading conditions can lead to distinct biomechanical responses in the knee joint.

THE ROLES OF MECHANICAL STRESSES IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS: IMPLICATIONS FOR TREATMENT OF JOINT INJURIES.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603513495889 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:44:36
This review examines how mechanical stress contributes to osteoarthritis (OA) development and explores implications for preventing and treating joint injuries. The authors analyzed existing research on the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which excessive joint loading damages cartilage, including single acute impacts and repetitive stress from joint instability or dysplasia. Key findings show that excessive cartilage loading triggers harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) release from mitochondria, leading to cartilage cell death and tissue breakdown, while fibronectin fragments and inflammatory molecules (alarmins) released from damaged cartilage further accelerate joint destruction. The research suggests that controlling mechanical stress through techniques like joint distraction and motion can promote healing in damaged joints, and that targeting these newly identified molecular pathways could lead to improved biological and mechanical treatments for OA prevention and management.

THE MECHANOBIOLOGY OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: BEARING THE BURDEN OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1007/s11926-014-0451-6 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:44:29
This review examines how mechanical forces affect articular cartilage health and disease, particularly in osteoarthritis. The authors synthesized studies measuring cartilage deformation from macro- to microscale levels and analyzed how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) respond to mechanical loading through both laboratory and animal studies. The findings reveal a complex network of interactions between mechanical forces, inflammatory processes, and biochemical signals that can either maintain healthy cartilage or promote disease progression. Understanding these mechanobiological relationships is crucial for developing new tissue engineering strategies and treatments for cartilage disorders like osteoarthritis.

EXUBERANT SPROUTING OF SENSORY AND SYMPATHETIC NERVE FIBERS IN NONHEALED BONE FRACTURES AND THE GENERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF CHRONIC SKELETAL PAIN.

DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2014.08.026 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:44:25
This study investigated why chronic skeletal pain is harder to treat than acute skeletal pain by examining whether abnormal nerve growth occurs at nonhealed bone fracture sites. The researchers created closed femur fractures in mice and analyzed nerve fiber patterns and pain behaviors in animals with nonhealed fractures at 90+ days post-injury. They found that all mice with nonhealed fractures developed excessive sprouting of sensory and sympathetic nerve fibers, increased nerve density, and neuroma-like structures near the fracture site, along with significant pain responses when the area was touched. These abnormal nerve changes were never seen in uninjured control animals, suggesting that ectopic nerve sprouting in nonhealed bone may explain why chronic skeletal pain becomes increasingly difficult to manage with standard pain medications.

EXPRESSION AND SIGNIFICANCE OF TRANSIENT RECEPTOR POTENTIAL CATION CHANNEL V5 IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE CELLS UNDER EXERCISE LOADS.

DOI: 10.3892/br.2014.333 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:44:19
This study investigated how the calcium channel protein TRPV5 is expressed in joint cartilage cells under different loading conditions to understand its role in cartilage tissue formation. The researchers used immunohistochemistry to measure TRPV5 expression in normal and osteoarthritic rat cartilage, both with and without exercise loading. They found that TRPV5 expression was significantly reduced under exercise loading conditions in both normal cartilage (from 34.3% to 18.1% positive areas) and osteoarthritic cartilage (from 13.17% to 6.4% positive areas). The results suggest that TRPV5 expression is load-dependent and may play an important role in cartilage tissue development and maintenance.

TIME EVOLUTION OF DEFORMATION IN A HUMAN CARTILAGE UNDER CYCLIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-014-1164-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:44:14
This study aimed to develop a mathematical model that could accurately predict the large deformations (10-30% of cartilage thickness) observed in human knee cartilage during normal activities. The researchers created a sophisticated biphasic poroelastic model that accounts for cartilage's unique properties, including its different behavior under tension versus compression and how its stiffness and fluid permeability change based on the concentration of aggrecan (a key cartilage protein). They validated their model using experimental tests on human cartilage samples from cadavers under cyclic loading conditions. The model successfully reproduced the experimental observations, showing that during steady-state cyclic loading, cartilage deformation oscillates between 10% compression (when fluid is squeezed out) and 20% total compression (at peak load), with equal amounts of fluid being expelled and reabsorbed during each loading cycle.

PROMOTING INCREASED MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF TISSUE ENGINEERED NEOCARTILAGE VIA THE APPLICATION OF HYPEROSMOLARITY AND 4Α-PHORBOL 12,13-DIDECANOATE (4ΑPDD).

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2014.09.018 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:44:07
This study investigated whether hyperosmotic conditions (high salt concentration) and a chemical activator called 4αPDD could improve the mechanical strength of laboratory-grown cartilage tissue. The researchers tested these treatments on engineered cartilage constructs and measured their compressive and tensile properties, as well as collagen content. The results showed that 4αPDD significantly increased the cartilage's ability to resist compression, and when combined with hyperosmotic conditions, it enhanced tensile stiffness and collagen production. These findings suggest that activating the TRPV4 cellular channel with 4αPDD could be a promising approach to create stronger engineered cartilage for treating joint defects in osteoarthritis patients.

A BIPHASIC FINITE ELEMENT STUDY ON THE ROLE OF THE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE SUPERFICIAL ZONE IN CONFINED COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2014.11.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:44:02
This study investigated how the superficial zone (top layer) of articular cartilage affects the tissue's mechanical behavior during compression. The researchers used biphasic finite element modeling to simulate confined compression tests, comparing normal orientation (superficial zone loaded) versus upside-down orientation (deep zone loaded), with and without the superficial zone present. The key findings showed that compression reduced surface permeability by 88%, and removing the superficial zone increased tissue deformation and altered fluid flow patterns, with specimen orientation significantly affecting time-dependent mechanical responses. These results demonstrate that the superficial zone plays a critical role in cartilage's load-bearing function by regulating fluid flow and supporting the tissue structure during mechanical loading.

RESURFACING DAMAGED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE TO RESTORE COMPRESSIVE PROPERTIES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2014.10.023 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:43:56
This study aimed to develop a resurfacing treatment to restore the mechanical properties of damaged articular cartilage, targeting the surface damage that initiates early-stage osteoarthritis. The researchers applied various polymers (chondroitin sulfate, carboxymethylcellulose, sodium hyaluronate) and photoinitiators to collagenase-damaged cartilage surfaces, then crosslinked them using UV light to create a protective layer. The treatment using tyramine-substituted sodium hyaluronate with riboflavin successfully restored both permeability and deformation properties to levels comparable to intact cartilage, with mechanical stability maintained over 7 days of repetitive loading. Lower riboflavin concentrations preserved cell viability throughout the cartilage, while higher concentrations caused some cell death in the surface layer, suggesting this approach could provide a new therapeutic strategy for early cartilage repair.

IMPACT OF SYNOVIAL FLUID FLOW ON TEMPERATURE REGULATION IN KNEE CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2014.11.008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:43:50
This study investigated how synovial fluid flow affects temperature regulation in knee cartilage during mechanical loading. The researchers used a numerical poroelastic model to simulate cartilage behavior under cyclic loading and analyzed both heat generation from tissue viscosity and the cooling effect of fluid flow. The results showed that cartilage temperature does increase during loading due to viscous energy dissipation, but synovial fluid flow provides minimal cooling benefit. The limited temperature regulation was attributed to cartilage's low permeability and restricted fluid exchange at the tissue surface during deformation.

QUANTITATIVE T2(*) ASSESSMENT OF KNEE JOINT CARTILAGE AFTER RUNNING A MARATHON.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2014.11.021 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:43:45
This study investigated how intense repetitive loading from marathon running affects cartilage health as measured by T2(*) MRI mapping in the knee joint. The researchers performed T2(*) MRI scans on 10 healthy amateur marathon runners before the race, within 48 hours after, and again after four weeks of recovery, analyzing cartilage in different knee compartments.

The main finding was a small but statistically significant increase in T2(*) values immediately after the marathon (from 29.84ms to 30.47ms), which returned to baseline levels after four weeks of rest. The authors concluded that while marathon running causes transient changes in cartilage T2(*) values, these changes are minimal and likely not clinically meaningful, though they noted consistently lower T2(*) values in the medial tibial cartilage that may reflect either normal loading patterns or early degenerative changes.

TOPOGRAPHIC DEFORMATION PATTERNS OF KNEE CARTILAGE AFTER EXERCISES WITH HIGH KNEE FLEXION: AN IN VIVO 3D MRI STUDY USING VOXEL-BASED ANALYSIS AT 3T.

DOI: 10.1007/s00330-014-3545-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:43:39
This study aimed to develop and apply a new voxel-based MRI technique to map detailed patterns of knee cartilage deformation after high-flexion exercises in living subjects. The researchers used 3T MRI to scan 10 healthy knees before and immediately after various loading activities (kneeling, squatting, heel sitting, and knee bends), then created detailed 3D color-coded maps showing cartilage thickness changes by comparing loaded and unloaded images.

The study found specific patterns of cartilage compression and thickening across the knee joint, with compression occurring mainly at the outer edges of the kneecap, back portions of the thigh bone, and front/center areas of the shin bone, while adjacent areas showed cartilage thickening. Local strain ranged from +13% to -15%, with squatting producing the most pronounced changes and knee bends the least, though deformation patterns were remarkably consistent between individuals regardless of the specific exercise performed.

INTERMITTENT APPLIED MECHANICAL LOADING INDUCES SUBCHONDRAL BONE THICKENING THAT MAY BE INTENSIFIED LOCALLY BY CONTIGUOUS ARTICULAR CARTILAGE LESIONS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2015.01.012 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:43:32
This study investigated how mechanical loading affects subchondral bone structure in a mouse model of osteoarthritis, where loading induces cartilage lesions specifically in the lateral femur. Researchers used micro-CT scanning to analyze bone changes in CBA mice subjected to different loading protocols (single load, 2 weeks, or 5 weeks of loading) and performed gait analysis to assess functional changes. The main findings showed that 5 weeks of loading caused significant subchondral bone thickening in the lateral compartments where cartilage lesions occurred, with the most pronounced changes in the lateral femur. Importantly, the study also revealed that the contralateral (non-loaded) knee developed bone changes and gait alterations, highlighting that using the opposite limb as an internal control in osteoarthritis research may be problematic due to compensatory loading patterns.

AN EXPERIMENTAL FATIGUE STUDY OF A POROUS SCAFFOLD FOR THE REGENERATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2015.02.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:43:26
This study aimed to evaluate the long-term mechanical durability of a porous polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffold designed for cartilage tissue engineering by subjecting it to fatigue testing. The researchers performed up to 100,000 compression cycles on scaffolds in three conditions: dry, water-immersed, and filled with polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel (to simulate tissue growth), while measuring mechanical properties and examining structural changes using electron microscopy. The key findings showed that dry scaffolds failed earlier than water-immersed ones, while scaffold-gel constructs maintained their integrity throughout all 100,000 cycles without mechanical degradation. These results suggest that PCL scaffolds remain mechanically stable when implanted in cartilage defects and can withstand the repetitive loading experienced in joints during the tissue regeneration process.

MULTISCALE CARTILAGE BIOMECHANICS: TECHNICAL CHALLENGES IN REALIZING A HIGH-THROUGHPUT MODELLING AND SIMULATION WORKFLOW.

DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2014.0081 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:43:19
This study aimed to develop a high-throughput computational framework for analyzing cartilage mechanics across multiple scales, from entire joints down to individual cells (chondrocytes). The researchers used automated finite element modeling approaches that link joint-level simulations with tissue-cell level simulations through a "feed-forward" method, where mechanical information from larger scales drives predictions at smaller scales. The key findings include successful automation of model generation for both joint-tissue and tissue-cell scales, with the ability to run multiple simulations in parallel to capture population-wide variations in cartilage properties and loading conditions. Verification studies confirmed the need for sophisticated data transfer methods between scales and highlighted the importance of appropriate model size selection for accurate cell-level mechanical predictions.

ROLES OF THE FIBROUS SUPERFICIAL ZONE IN THE MECHANICAL BEHAVIOR OF TMJ CONDYLAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-015-1320-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:43:13
This study investigated how the unique fibrous superficial zone of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) cartilage contributes to the joint's mechanical function and lubrication properties. The researchers conducted mechanical testing on porcine TMJ cartilage and developed computer models to simulate sliding motion, measuring the different mechanical properties of the superficial zone versus deeper cartilage layers. Key findings showed that the superficial zone is much stiffer in tension (30.73 MPa) compared to the deeper zones (2.43 MPa), while being more compliant under compression. The fibrous superficial zone significantly enhances fluid pressurization within the cartilage during loading and reduces surface friction during sliding, demonstrating its critical role in TMJ lubrication and protection against wear.

VALIDATING DUAL FLUOROSCOPY SYSTEM CAPABILITIES FOR DETERMINING IN-VIVO KNEE JOINT SOFT TISSUE DEFORMATION: A STRATEGY FOR REGISTRATION ERROR MANAGEMENT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2015.04.045 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:43:08
This study aimed to validate whether dual fluoroscopy (DF) imaging can accurately measure small cartilage deformations (0.3-1.2mm) that occur in healthy and early osteoarthritic knees during weight-bearing. The researchers tested a controlled setup using bone specimens with known displacements, comparing marker-based tracking (using steel beads) versus markerless bone feature registration at different image resolutions. The marker-based approach achieved a minimum detectable displacement of 0.05mm at high resolution (3.2 line pairs/mm), while the markerless method reached 0.08mm accuracy with excellent reliability (84.4%) when averaged across operators. The findings demonstrate that dual fluoroscopy with appropriate image resolution and error management strategies can reliably detect the small tissue deformations relevant for early osteoarthritis assessment, potentially providing a non-invasive diagnostic tool for detecting cartilage changes before they appear on standard X-rays.

NON-INVASIVE MOUSE MODELS OF POST-TRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2015.05.009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:43:01
This review examines non-invasive mouse models for studying post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA), aiming to identify alternatives to commonly used surgical injury methods that may have confounding effects from the surgical procedure itself. The authors describe three main non-invasive approaches: intra-articular fracture of tibial subchondral bone, cyclic tibial compression loading of articular cartilage, and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture via tibial compression overload—all of which mechanically induce joint injury externally without breaking the skin or disrupting the joint. These non-invasive models may better represent human OA mechanisms since they avoid surgical complications and allow investigation of early adaptive processes that occur immediately after mechanical injury. The review concludes that these models provide a valuable spectrum of tools for studying different aspects of PTOA development and may offer better translational relevance to human osteoarthritis than traditional surgical approaches.

THE MICROMECHANICS OF THE SUPERFICIAL ZONE OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2015.05.030 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:42:54
This study investigated how the superficial zone of articular cartilage deforms at the microscopic level by examining the relationships between its mechanical and structural properties. The researchers used multiphoton microscopy combined with tensile and compressive loading to visualize collagen fibers, elastin fibers, and cells in real-time while measuring stress and strain in fresh equine cartilage samples. The key finding was that cartilage deformation is highly heterogeneous at the microscopic scale, with different regions showing varying responses - collagen fibers exhibited shearing and surface corrugations under tension, cells deformed and rotated differently from one another, and elastin networks reorganized in complex non-uniform patterns. These results demonstrate that the superficial zone's mechanical behavior is much more complex than previously understood, with all major components (collagen, elastin, and cells) responding heterogeneously rather than uniformly to mechanical loads.

ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTS OF NORMAL WALKING ON ANKLE JOINT CONTACT CHARACTERISTICS AFTER ACUTE INVERSION ANKLE SPRAIN.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-015-1360-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:42:47
This study investigated how different severities of lateral ankle ligament injuries affect ankle joint mechanics during normal walking. The researchers used finite element computer simulations comparing an intact ankle model with various injury models (ranging from single ligament ruptures to complete lateral ligament disruption), using walking data from a healthy volunteer to provide realistic loading conditions. The key finding was that ankles with ruptured anterior talofibular ligaments (ATFL) experienced significantly higher contact pressures, cartilage strains, and abnormal bone translations compared to ATFL-deficient ankles, with more severe multi-ligament injuries showing similar patterns. These problematic changes were most pronounced during the push-off phase of walking, suggesting this is when injured ankles are most vulnerable to further damage during normal activities.

MEASURING MICROSCALE STRAIN FIELDS IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DURING RAPID IMPACT REVEALS THRESHOLDS FOR CHONDROCYTE DEATH AND A PROTECTIVE ROLE FOR THE SUPERFICIAL LAYER.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2015.05.035 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:42:41
This study aimed to understand how microscale mechanical forces during rapid joint impacts lead to cartilage cell death, which may contribute to osteoarthritis development. The researchers used high-speed cameras and confocal microscopy to measure cartilage deformation at 85 μm resolution during rapid 3-millisecond impacts, then tracked chondrocyte (cartilage cell) death over time. They found that cell death was strongly linked to local strain levels, with an 8% strain threshold below which no cells died, and that cell death occurred within two hours of impact. Importantly, removing the cartilage's superficial layer allowed damaging strains to penetrate deeper into the tissue, demonstrating that this surface layer normally protects the underlying cartilage from injury.

SHORT TERM EVALUATION OF AN ANATOMICALLY SHAPED POLYCARBONATE URETHANE TOTAL MENISCUS REPLACEMENT IN A GOAT MODEL.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0133138 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:42:35
This study evaluated a new anatomically-shaped polycarbonate urethane (PCU) total meniscus replacement in goats to address the limited treatment options for patients who have undergone complete meniscus removal. Seven goats received the PCU implant to replace their right medial meniscus, while six control goats underwent sham surgery, and all animals were followed for three months to assess implant position, structural integrity, and effects on surrounding joint tissues. The PCU material showed good biocompatibility with no inflammatory response or material wear, and the implant maintained its shape well during the study period. However, fixation sutures failed in all animals due to breakage or wear, leading to implant movement and extrusion, which likely contributed to increased cartilage damage compared to control groups, indicating that improved fixation methods are needed before clinical application.

DETERMINING TENSION-COMPRESSION NONLINEAR MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE FROM INDENTATION TESTING.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-015-1402-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:42:29
This study aimed to develop a method for determining the distinct tension and compression mechanical properties of articular cartilage using indentation testing, which is important because cartilage behaves differently under these two loading modes. The researchers used finite element simulations to analyze how different mechanical properties affect cartilage's response during indentation, then developed a curve-fitting algorithm to extract three key properties (compressive modulus, tensile modulus, and permeability) from a single test. Their simulations revealed that equilibrium deformation depends mainly on compressive modulus, while initial creep behavior is controlled by tensile stiffness, and permeability changes shift the time response without altering curve shape. The new technique was successfully tested on bovine knee cartilage and compared favorably with traditional linear elastic analysis methods, providing a more comprehensive characterization of cartilage mechanics from standard indentation tests.

AN MRI-COMPATIBLE LOADING DEVICE TO ASSESS KNEE JOINT CARTILAGE DEFORMATION: EFFECT OF PRELOADING AND INTER-TEST REPEATABILITY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2015.08.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:42:22
This study aimed to develop an MRI-compatible device for measuring knee cartilage deformation under controlled loading, and to determine optimal timing protocols for reproducible measurements. The researchers tested a displacement-controlled loading device on four volunteers using five different scanning protocols: unloaded, immediate loading (scans started right after applying 50% body weight), and delayed loading (scans started 12 minutes after load application). The device successfully maintained consistent knee positioning between repeat scans (within 1mm translation and 2° rotation), which is essential for longitudinal patient studies. Cartilage deformation measurements were more reproducible when scanning was delayed 12 minutes after load application compared to immediate scanning, suggesting this timing protocol would be optimal for clinical use.

DOES PERIACETABULAR OSTEOTOMY HAVE DEPTH-RELATED EFFECTS ON THE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE OF THE HIP?

DOI: 10.1007/s11999-015-4545-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:42:17
This study investigated how periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) affects cartilage composition at different depths in dysplastic hips. The researchers used delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI (dGEMRIC) to measure glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content—key cartilage molecules that are lost in early osteoarthritis—in 37 patients before surgery and at 1 and 2 years after PAO. The study found that GAG content decreased significantly in both superficial and deep cartilage layers at 1 year post-surgery, with changes most pronounced in the superior (weight-bearing) region of the joint. By 2 years, the superficial layer showed recovery toward pre-surgical levels, while the deep layer changes persisted, suggesting the superficial changes may reflect temporary post-surgical inflammation while deeper changes likely represent adaptation to altered joint mechanics.

ASSESSMENT OF KNEE CARTILAGE STRESS DISTRIBUTION AND DEFORMATION USING MOTION CAPTURE SYSTEM AND WEARABLE SENSORS FOR FORCE RATIO DETECTION.

DOI: 10.1155/2015/963746 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:42:11
This study aimed to develop a non-invasive method for assessing knee cartilage stress distribution and deformation during walking to help predict cartilage wear and surgical timing. The researchers used a comprehensive approach combining motion capture cameras with reflective markers, accelerometers placed on the hip, knee, and ankle, and force plates to record movement and ground reaction forces during normal walking. They integrated this sensor data with CT-derived knee joint geometry into a biomechanical model that accounted for ground reaction forces, joint contact forces, body weight, and muscle/ligament forces, then applied finite element analysis to calculate cartilage stresses. The method successfully enabled non-invasive determination of cartilage stress distribution patterns, providing clinically relevant information about joint health that could help medical professionals assess cartilage condition and make surgical decisions.

DEVELOPMENT OF A RAT MODEL OF MECHANICALLY INDUCED TUNABLE PAIN AND ASSOCIATED TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT RESPONSES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joms.2015.09.005 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:42:04
This study aimed to develop a rat model that could produce either temporary or persistent jaw pain by mechanically overloading the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), better mimicking the chronic pain experienced by patients with TMJ osteoarthritis. Researchers applied two different jaw-opening forces (2-N and 3.5-N) to female rats for 60 minutes daily over 7 days, then measured pain sensitivity and analyzed joint tissue for inflammatory and cartilage breakdown markers. The higher 3.5-N force produced persistent pain lasting through day 14 and significantly increased inflammatory proteins (MMP-13, HIF-1α, and TNF-α), while the 2-N force caused only temporary pain that resolved after loading stopped. This "tunable" model provides researchers with a tool to study both acute and chronic TMJ pain mechanisms and test potential treatments for patients with painful TMJ disorders.

DISLOCATED POSTERIOR TIBIAL TENDON TREATED WITH PLATE BUTTRESS FIXATION IN A COLLEGIATE GYMNAST: A CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE.

DOI: 10.1177/1938640015609985 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:41:58
This case report describes the diagnosis and surgical treatment of a rare posterior tibial tendon (PTT) dislocation in a collegiate gymnast. The injury occurred during competition through forced foot dorsiflexion and eversion, and was diagnosed using advanced imaging (MRI or ultrasound) since routine X-rays typically miss this condition. The authors treated the dislocation surgically using a novel plate buttressing technique to secure the PTT in its original groove, rather than the more commonly described approach of repairing the flexor retinaculum and correcting the retromalleolar groove. This surgical intervention was chosen because nonoperative treatment typically leads to poor outcomes including persistent pain and progressive flat foot deformity.

BIOLOGICAL AND MECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF CHITOSAN-ALGINATE SCAFFOLDS FOR GROWTH FACTOR DELIVERY AND CHONDROGENESIS.

DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.33544 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:41:52
This study aimed to evaluate chitosan-alginate (CH-AL) scaffolds for cartilage tissue engineering by examining their mechanical properties, growth factor delivery capabilities, and ability to support cartilage formation. The researchers tested various scaffold formulations and crosslinking conditions using compression testing, cell culture experiments with chondrocytes, and growth factor release studies using model proteins and TGF-β1. The CH-AL scaffolds demonstrated cartilage-like mechanical properties including good compression resistance and strain recovery, while also supporting cell growth and cartilage matrix production (collagen type II, glycosaminoglycans) even without added growth factors. Additionally, the scaffolds effectively controlled growth factor release and maintained TGF-β1 bioactivity, leading to enhanced cartilage matrix formation and proper tissue structure development within just 3 weeks.

IN VIVO DEFORMATION OF THIN CARTILAGE LAYERS: FEASIBILITY AND APPLICABILITY OF T2* MAPPING.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.23072 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:41:46
This study evaluated whether T2* MRI mapping can reliably detect changes in thin ankle cartilage during loading and recovery. The researchers used multi-echo MRI sequences to measure T2* relaxation times in ankle cartilage of 10 healthy volunteers before, immediately after, and 15 minutes following a 30-repetition knee bending exercise. The method showed excellent precision (4-6% error) and detected significant increases in T2* values immediately after exercise (+16-17% in both ankle bones), which returned toward baseline levels within 15 minutes of recovery. These findings demonstrate that T2* mapping can effectively monitor deformation responses in thin cartilage layers, making it a promising tool for evaluating how therapeutic exercises affect cartilage health.

MRI PROPERTIES OF A UNIQUE HYPO-INTENSE LAYER IN DEGRADED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/60/22/8709 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:41:41
This study investigated a distinctive dark (hypo-intense) layer that appears in MRI images of damaged articular cartilage under loading conditions. The researchers used microscopic MRI techniques (T1, T2, and T1ρ imaging) to examine 15 specimens of both healthy and enzymatically degraded cartilage in different salt solutions while varying the tissue orientation relative to the magnetic field. The key finding was that this hypo-intense layer only appeared in the deep zone of degraded cartilage when positioned at specific angles (the "magic angle") and when soaked in saline solution, but disappeared in phosphate buffered saline. These results suggest that the appearance of this MRI feature depends on both cartilage degradation and the ionic environment, highlighting the need for careful interpretation of cartilage MRI data in research and clinical settings.

SHAPE OF CHONDROCYTES WITHIN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AFFECTS THE SOLID BUT NOT THE FLUID MICROENVIRONMENT UNDER UNCONFINED COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2015.10.035 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:41:34
This study investigated how chondrocyte (cartilage cell) shape influences the cellular microenvironment's response to mechanical loading using a biphasic multiscale finite element model that simulated different cell shapes in superficial and deep cartilage zones during unconfined compression. The researchers found that changes in cell shape significantly affected the solid mechanical environment (deformation and stresses) around chondrocytes and their surrounding pericellular matrix, particularly in superficial zone cells where higher aspect ratios increased deformation and stress during loading. However, cell shape did not influence the fluid mechanical environment (fluid pressure and shear stress) in either cartilage zone. These findings suggest that chondrocyte mechanotransduction occurs primarily through solid-phase mechanical signals rather than fluid-phase signals, highlighting the importance of maintaining proper cell shape for normal cartilage function and successful tissue engineering approaches.

MECHANOTRANSDUCTION IN PRIMARY HUMAN OSTEOARTHRITIC CHONDROCYTES IS MEDIATED BY METABOLISM OF ENERGY, LIPIDS, AND AMINO ACIDS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2015.10.038 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:41:29
This study aimed to understand how osteoarthritic chondrocytes (cartilage cells) respond metabolically to mechanical loading within 30 minutes of compression. The researchers applied dynamic compression to human chondrocytes from osteoarthritic donors for 0, 15, or 30 minutes, then used advanced mass spectrometry techniques to analyze changes in cellular metabolism. They found that mechanical loading triggered widespread metabolic changes in hundreds of molecules, with energy being redirected into central metabolic pathways like the TCA cycle, suggesting increased energy production to support cartilage maintenance. The metabolic response varied between patients and was influenced by age, indicating that osteoarthritic chondrocytes can still respond to mechanical signals but in a patient-specific manner.

SITE-DEPENDENT BIOMECHANICAL RESPONSES OF CHONDROCYTES IN THE RABBIT KNEE JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2015.09.049 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:41:23
This study investigated how cartilage cells (chondrocytes) respond mechanically to loading at different locations within rabbit knee joints. The researchers used confocal microscopy combined with indentation testing to measure changes in cell size and shape under loading at four sites (patella, femoral groove, femoral condyle, and tibial plateau), while also analyzing tissue structure including collagen fiber orientation. The results showed that chondrocyte responses varied significantly between joint locations - for example, patellar cells showed greater volume decreases and height reductions compared to femoral groove cells, while medial condyle cells actually expanded in certain directions unlike other sites. These site-specific differences in cell behavior corresponded closely with local collagen fiber orientations and likely reflect the distinct mechanical loading conditions experienced at each location in the knee joint.

EFFECTS OF VIMENTIN DISRUPTION ON THE MECHANORESPONSES OF ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2015.11.083 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:41:16
This study investigated how vimentin intermediate filaments contribute to the mechanical responses of articular chondrocytes, which are the cells responsible for maintaining cartilage tissue. The researchers cultured goat chondrocytes on soft gels, disrupted their vimentin filaments using acrylamide, then applied compression or stretch forces while measuring cellular stiffness and force generation using specialized microscopy techniques. The key findings showed that when vimentin was disrupted, chondrocytes lost their ability to maintain stiffness and contractile forces after compression, and showed reduced fluidization-resolidification responses to stretching compared to normal cells. These results demonstrate that vimentin filaments play a crucial role in helping chondrocytes withstand compressive loads—the primary type of mechanical stress experienced in joint cartilage—but have a lesser role in regulating overall cellular tension.

OSTEOARTHRITIS YEAR IN REVIEW 2015: MECHANICS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2015.08.018 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:41:10
This narrative review examined recent advances in osteoarthritis (OA) mechanics research from January 2014 to April 2015, organizing findings across multiple biological scales from whole-joint to molecular level. The authors conducted a PubMed literature search to identify major developments in biomechanics related to OA pathophysiology. Key findings included new insights into knee joint loading patterns and how meniscus/ligament injuries alter joint mechanics, improved understanding of tissue-level mechanics in cartilage and meniscus, discovery of mechanically-activated calcium channels in cartilage cells, and development of advanced nano-scale measurement techniques for studying matrix molecules under high loading rates. The review demonstrates how mechanical factors at each biological scale contribute to OA development, supporting the concept that understanding multi-scale biomechanics is essential for comprehending OA as a whole-joint disease.

IN VIVO ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFORMATION: NONINVASIVE QUANTIFICATION OF INTRATISSUE STRAIN DURING JOINT CONTACT IN THE HUMAN KNEE.

DOI: 10.1038/srep19220 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:41:03
This study aimed to directly measure cartilage deformation patterns within knee joint tissue during loading in healthy humans for the first time. The researchers used synchronized MRI imaging with physiologically relevant compression (half body weight applied at the foot) to visualize and quantify displacement and strain through the thickness of tibiofemoral cartilage. Key findings showed that loading produced sliding motion between cartilage surfaces, generated complex strain patterns that varied by individual, gender, and location within the tissue, with dominant strains being shear-based and reaching up to 12%. This MRI-based approach for noninvasively measuring cartilage deformation could serve as a functional biomarker and accelerate development of treatments for cartilage diseases and injuries.

LOW- VERSUS HIGH-INTENSITY PLYOMETRIC EXERCISE DURING REHABILITATION AFTER ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546515620583 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:40:56
This randomized controlled trial compared the effects of low- versus high-intensity plyometric exercise on knee function and cartilage health in 24 patients during ACL reconstruction rehabilitation (mean 14.3 weeks post-surgery). Participants completed 8 weeks of either low- or high-intensity plyometric training involving running, jumping, and agility exercises, with groups distinguished by the expected magnitude of ground-reaction forces during activities. Both exercise intensities produced similar improvements in knee function, pain, strength, jump performance, and psychological outcomes, with no significant differences between groups for primary outcomes including self-reported knee function (IKDC scores) and cartilage degradation biomarkers. However, there was a trend suggesting that high-intensity exercise may reduce cartilage formation markers compared to low-intensity exercise, indicating that cartilage responses to different plyometric intensities warrant further investigation.

IN VIVO DYNAMIC DEFORMATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN INTACT JOINTS LOADED BY CONTROLLED MUSCULAR CONTRACTIONS.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147547 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:40:50
This study aimed to measure real-time cartilage deformation in living mouse knee joints during controlled muscle contractions, addressing a gap in knowledge since previous research relied on artificial loading methods that don't reflect natural joint mechanics. The researchers used controlled muscular contractions at 50% and 80% of maximum knee extensor force to compress cartilage while measuring deformation in real-time. During 8-second static contractions, cartilage experienced substantial peak strains of 10.5% and 18.3% respectively, while repeated brief contractions produced lower strains of 3.0% and 9.6%. The cartilage showed highly viscoelastic behavior, taking nearly 50 seconds to fully recover its thickness after load removal, providing important insights into how cartilage responds to physiological loading conditions.

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF NORMAL AND OSTEOARTHRITIC HUMAN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2016.01.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:40:44
This study aimed to compare the mechanical properties of normal and osteoarthritic human knee cartilage using mathematical models, and to determine how well these models predict cartilage behavior during loading. The researchers tested small cartilage samples from cadavers and knee replacement patients using compression tests that simulated weight-bearing conditions, then used computer models to calculate material properties and compared these with tissue damage scores. Key findings showed that cartilage mechanical properties significantly deteriorated with increasing osteoarthritis severity, as measured by standard grading scales. While the Yeoh model was more accurate than the Neo-Hookean model for predicting contact forces and pressure, both models failed to adequately capture the directional properties of cartilage, particularly in the surface layer, highlighting important limitations for cartilage modeling applications.

PROGRESSIVE CELL-MEDIATED CHANGES IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND BONE IN MICE ARE INITIATED BY A SINGLE SESSION OF CONTROLLED CYCLIC COMPRESSIVE LOADING.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.23204 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:40:38
This study investigated whether a single bout of mechanical loading could trigger osteoarthritis-like changes in mouse knee joints. Researchers applied one 5-minute session of cyclic compression (9.0N peak load, 1,200 cycles) to adult mouse tibiae and analyzed joint tissues at 0, 1, and 2 weeks post-loading using histology, immunohistochemistry, and micro-CT imaging. The single loading session caused no immediate damage but led to progressive cartilage deterioration (thinning and proteoglycan loss) and temporary bone loss that persisted through 2 weeks, while subchondral bone changes recovered by 2 weeks. These findings demonstrate that brief mechanical overloading can initiate sustained degenerative joint changes similar to early osteoarthritis, with cartilage showing less recovery capacity than bone.

AMBULATION SPEED AND CORRESPONDING MECHANICS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH CHANGES IN SERUM CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN.

DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2015.11.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:40:32
This study investigated how walking and running speed and mechanics affect serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), a blood marker that reflects cartilage health. Eighteen healthy adults completed 4,000 steps at three different speeds (slow, medium, and fast) on an instrumented treadmill while researchers measured joint mechanics and collected blood samples before, immediately after, and up to 60 minutes post-exercise. The results showed that faster ambulation caused greater increases in serum COMP, with increases of 29%, 18%, and 5% for fast, medium, and slow speeds respectively. Additionally, specific joint movement patterns—including ankle, knee, and hip mechanics—explained about 61% of the variation in COMP changes, suggesting that both speed and movement quality influence cartilage stress responses.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVELS AND QUALITY OF LIFE RELATE TO COLLAGEN TURNOVER AND INFLAMMATION CHANGES AFTER RUNNING.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.23250 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:40:26
This study investigated whether self-reported knee symptoms and activity levels correlate with biological markers of cartilage breakdown and inflammation following exercise in people with and without previous knee injuries. The researchers compared 11 individuals with a history of ACL or meniscus surgery to 11 healthy controls, measuring blood biomarkers before and after a 30-minute treadmill run while assessing participants' activity levels and quality of life scores. The key findings showed that individuals with lower activity levels experienced greater collagen turnover after running, and those with poorer quality of life scores had increased inflammation markers post-exercise. These results suggest that people with reduced activity levels or knee-related quality of life issues may need gradual activity progression before returning to running to minimize adverse tissue responses.

REGIONAL DIFFERENTIAL GENETIC RESPONSE OF HUMAN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE TO IMPACT INJURY.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603515618483 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:40:20
This study investigated how different regions of human knee cartilage respond genetically to impact injury, given that these regions normally experience different weight-bearing loads during movement. Researchers harvested cartilage samples from three knee regions (medial condyle, lateral condyle, and trochlea) of seven cadavers, applied controlled impact injuries using a drop tower, and analyzed gene expression changes 24 hours later using microarray technology. The key finding was that only the trochlea (the lowest weight-bearing region) showed a significant genetic response to injury with 130 differentially expressed genes, while the higher weight-bearing condyles showed no significant gene expression changes. These results demonstrate that cartilage regions adapted to different mechanical loads respond differently to acute injury, with the less mechanically conditioned trochlear cartilage being more genetically reactive to impact trauma.

EFFICACY OF PROGRESSIVE AQUATIC RESISTANCE TRAINING FOR TIBIOFEMORAL CARTILAGE IN POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN WITH MILD KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIAL.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2016.05.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:40:14
This randomized controlled trial investigated whether aquatic resistance training could improve knee cartilage health in postmenopausal women with mild osteoarthritis. Eighty-seven women aged 60-68 were randomly assigned to either 48 supervised aquatic training sessions over 16 weeks or a control group, with cartilage biochemical composition assessed using advanced MRI techniques (T2 mapping and dGEMRIC). The training group showed significant improvements in cartilage structure, specifically reduced T2 values (-1.2 ms) and dGEMRIC index (-23 ms) in the medial femoral cartilage, along with a 9.8% improvement in cardiovascular fitness. The findings suggest that aquatic resistance training may benefit cartilage integrity in mild knee osteoarthritis, potentially through the low-impact loading environment that reduces joint stress while still providing therapeutic mechanical stimulation.

THE EFFECT OF VIGOROUS RUNNING AND CYCLING ON SERUM COMP, LUBRICIN, AND FEMORAL CARTILAGE THICKNESS: A PILOT STUDY.

DOI: 10.1007/s00421-016-3404-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:40:08
This pilot study investigated how vigorous running versus cycling affects knee cartilage by measuring blood markers and cartilage thickness in 11 male runners and 11 male cyclists. Researchers measured serum levels of lubricin (a joint lubricant) and COMP (a cartilage metabolism marker) using blood tests, plus femoral cartilage thickness using ultrasound, before exercise, immediately after a 10-km run or 25-km cycle time trial, and 30 minutes post-exercise. Both exercise types significantly increased lubricin levels (40% in cyclists, 57% in runners) and COMP levels (32% in cyclists, 14% in runners), with values returning toward baseline after 30 minutes of rest, while cartilage thickness remained unchanged in both groups. The findings suggest that vigorous exercise enhances joint lubrication and cartilage metabolism regardless of whether the activity is running or cycling, without causing detectable cartilage compression.

EQUINE SUBCHONDRAL BONE FAILURE THRESHOLD UNDER IMPACT COMPRESSION APPLIED THROUGH ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2016.05.016 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:40:01
This study aimed to determine the mechanical failure thresholds of subchondral bone tissue when subjected to impact loading transmitted through overlying cartilage, which is relevant for understanding post-traumatic knee osteoarthritis. The researchers used equine cartilage-bone specimens and combined mechanical impact testing with micro-CT imaging and finite element modeling (μFEM) to determine tissue-level material properties and stress-strain conditions associated with bone microfractures. Key findings showed that subchondral bone (including calcified cartilage) had an elastic modulus of 3.3±0.7 GPa and failed at tensile stresses of 29.5±5.3 MPa and compressive stresses of 64.3±21.3 MPa. These tissue-level mechanical properties and failure thresholds provide critical data for finite element modeling of joint impacts and could inform the design of artificial cartilage-bone replacements.

TOWARDS ANTIMICROBIAL YET BIOACTIVE CU-ALGINATE HYDROGELS.

DOI: 10.1088/1748-6041/11/3/035015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:39:55
This study aimed to develop copper-alginate (Cu-alginate) hydrogel microbeads with tunable properties for biomedical applications by replacing traditional calcium ions with copper ions during alginate gelation. The researchers used electrostatic extrusion to produce microbeads with varying copper concentrations (13.5-270 mM) and characterized their physical properties, copper release rates, and biological effects in laboratory tests. The findings showed that copper concentration could be adjusted to achieve different therapeutic outcomes: higher copper loading (~100 μmol/g) provided immediate antimicrobial effects against common bacteria, while lower copper content (~60 μmol/g) released copper more slowly and supported cartilage cell growth in 3D culture. These results demonstrate that Cu-alginate hydrogels can be customized for specific medical uses, including antimicrobial wound dressings and cartilage tissue engineering scaffolds.

THE IMMEDIATE EFFECT OF LONG-DISTANCE RUNNING ON T2 AND T2* RELAXATION TIMES OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE OF THE KNEE IN YOUNG HEALTHY ADULTS AT 3.0 T MR IMAGING.

DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20151075 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:39:48
This study investigated how long-distance running immediately affects knee cartilage structure in healthy young adults using advanced MRI techniques. Thirty healthy male athletes (ages 18-31) underwent 3.0T MRI scans before and immediately after a 45-minute run, measuring T2 and T2* relaxation times across 22 different cartilage regions in the knee. The researchers found significant decreases in both T2 (4.6ms reduction) and T2* (3.6ms reduction) relaxation times across all cartilage segments after running, indicating immediate structural changes in the cartilage matrix. These findings suggest that both T2 and T2* MRI measurements are sensitive biomarkers for detecting acute cartilage responses to mechanical loading from running exercise.

CARTILAGE-SPECIFIC KNOCKOUT OF THE MECHANOSENSORY ION CHANNEL TRPV4 DECREASES AGE-RELATED OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1038/srep29053 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:39:43
This study investigated whether the mechanosensory ion channel TRPV4, which helps cartilage cells respond to mechanical loading, plays a role in osteoarthritis (OA) development. The researchers used genetically modified mice where TRPV4 was specifically deleted from cartilage cells in adulthood, then examined OA severity in both age-related disease and surgically-induced OA (via destabilization of the medial meniscus). They found that removing TRPV4 from cartilage reduced the severity of age-related OA but did not prevent OA development following joint injury. These findings suggest that TRPV4-mediated mechanical signaling contributes differently to age-related versus post-traumatic OA, potentially offering a new therapeutic target specifically for treating age-associated joint degeneration.

RELATIVE CONTRIBUTION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE'S CONSTITUTIVE COMPONENTS TO LOAD SUPPORT DEPENDING ON STRAIN RATE.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-016-0807-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:39:36
This computational study investigated how different components of articular cartilage contribute to load bearing under various loading conditions and strain rates. The researchers used a sophisticated fibril-reinforced poroviscoelastic model to simulate unconfined compression experiments, analyzing the relative contributions of hydraulic pressure, osmotic pressure, collagen fibers, and solid matrix across cartilage's three zones (superficial, middle, and deep).

The key findings revealed that hydraulic pressure dominates initial load bearing during transient loading, while collagen fibers in the superficial zone consistently carry about 20% of the load across all strain rates due to their viscoelastic properties. Most strikingly, the study found that osmotic swelling pressure—generated by the interaction between proteoglycans and collagen—accounts for over 90% of load bearing at equilibrium, challenging the traditional view that load transfers from fluid to solid matrix.

These results highlight the critical importance of both viscoelastic collagen fibers and osmotic swelling pressure in cartilage mechanics, suggesting that cartilage load bearing transforms from hydraulic to osmotic pressure rather than simply transferring from fluid to solid components.

EFFECT OF NORMAL GAIT ON IN VIVO TIBIOFEMORAL CARTILAGE STRAINS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2016.06.025 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:39:30
This study aimed to measure how normal walking affects cartilage strain in healthy knee joints, providing baseline data for understanding cartilage loading patterns. The researchers used MRI scans of 8 healthy subjects before and after 20 minutes of walking at normal speed, then created 3D models to measure thickness changes and calculate strain across different knee compartments. The results showed that walking produced significant cartilage strains in all four tibiofemoral compartments, with tibial cartilage experiencing greater strain than femoral cartilage. This technique could serve as a "stress test" to evaluate how factors like age, weight, and injury affect cartilage response, potentially informing osteoarthritis prevention strategies.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE REPAIR: CURRENT NEEDS, METHODS AND RESEARCH DIRECTIONS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.07.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:39:25
This review examines current approaches and future directions for repairing articular cartilage, which has poor natural healing capacity and leads to osteoarthritis when damaged. The authors systematically review the composition and properties of normal cartilage, analyze existing clinical and pre-clinical treatment options, and evaluate their benefits and limitations. The review identifies that current treatments remain inadequate for preventing or restoring cartilage function effectively. The authors highlight promising research directions in tissue engineering, including the development of scaffolds, identification of appropriate cell sources, and use of growth factors to generate or repair functional articular cartilage.

REDUCED TISSUE OSMOLARITY INCREASES TRPV4 EXPRESSION AND PRO-INFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES IN INTERVERTEBRAL DISC CELLS.

DOI: 10.22203/ecm.v032a08 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:39:19
This study investigated how changes in osmotic environment during intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration affect the TRPV4 ion channel and contribute to inflammation. The researchers used bovine IVD cell cultures, immunohistochemistry, and molecular techniques to examine TRPV4 expression under different osmotic conditions and measured resulting calcium signaling and inflammatory cytokine production. They found that reduced tissue osmolarity (mimicking conditions after proteoglycan loss in degeneration) increased TRPV4 expression, enhanced calcium flux, and elevated production of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6. The findings suggest that TRPV4-mediated osmotic sensing may create a harmful cycle where proteoglycan loss leads to increased inflammation, potentially accelerating further tissue breakdown in disc degeneration.

A MULTI-SCALE ELASTO-PLASTIC MODEL OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2016.06.031 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:39:13
This study aimed to develop a multiscale model connecting microscale collagen damage to macroscale cartilage function in osteoarthritis development. The researchers created a multiscale fibril reinforced hyperelastoplastic (MFRHEP) model that spans from individual tropocollagen molecules to complete cartilage tissue, validating it against experimental data from unconfined compression and indentation tests at various loading rates. The model successfully reproduced observed cartilage mechanical behavior and demonstrated how damage initiation and progression relate to cross-link density between tropocollagen molecules. This represents the first attempt to link aggregate cartilage damage to microfibril-level cross-link density, providing new insights into the mechanical basis of osteoarthritis progression.

MECHANICAL STRESS LOADING INDUCES CD44 CLEAVAGE IN HUMAN CHONDROCYTIC HCS-2/8 CELLS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.08.099 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:39:08
This study investigated how mechanical stress contributes to cartilage degradation by examining the effects on CD44, a key receptor that helps maintain cartilage cell health. The researchers applied cyclic tensile strain (stretching at 1 Hz with 20% elongation for 48 hours) to human cartilage cells and measured CD44 cleavage using chemical inhibitors to identify the underlying pathway. They found that mechanical stress increased expression of ADAM10 enzyme, which then cleaved CD44 receptors, and this process was mediated by the TRPV4 mechanoreceptor channel. The findings suggest that targeting the TRPV4-ADAM10-CD44 pathway could offer new therapeutic approaches to prevent cartilage breakdown in osteoarthritis.

TAILORING HYDROGEL SURFACE PROPERTIES TO MODULATE CELLULAR RESPONSE TO SHEAR LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2016.10.011 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:39:02
This study investigated how surface friction properties affect cartilage cell behavior under mechanical loading using an innovative bilayered hydrogel system. The researchers developed hydrogels with controllable surface friction while maintaining identical bulk properties (stiffness, water content), then embedded human cartilage cells (chondrocytes) and applied shear loading to mimic joint movement. The key finding was that low-friction hydrogels promoted healthy cartilage formation (chondrogenesis), while high-friction hydrogels impaired matrix production and increased tissue breakdown (catabolism) due to higher internal shear strains. These results suggest that the loss of low-friction properties in aging or diseased joints may contribute to cartilage degeneration by exposing cells to excessive mechanical stress.

SPATIAL VARIATION OF FIXED CHARGE DENSITY IN KNEE JOINT CARTILAGE FROM SODIUM MRI - IMPLICATION ON KNEE JOINT MECHANICS UNDER STATIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2016.09.011 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:38:56
This study investigated how spatial variations in cartilage fixed charge density (FCD) affect knee joint mechanics during prolonged standing. The researchers used 7T sodium MRI to map FCD distribution in tibial cartilage from a healthy subject, then incorporated this data into a 3D finite element model of the knee joint and validated it against experimental loading using an MR-compatible compression device. The results showed that while FCD variations had minimal immediate effects on cartilage stress and strain, after 13 minutes of standing they significantly influenced axial strains, with areas of lower FCD experiencing up to 13% higher strains compared to models assuming uniform FCD distribution. These findings demonstrate that the site-specific proteoglycan content in cartilage plays a mechanically important role in how the knee joint responds to sustained loading.

TAILORING BIOMATERIAL SCAFFOLDS FOR OSTEOCHONDRAL REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2016.10.035 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:38:51
This review examines current approaches to developing biomaterial scaffolds for repairing damaged cartilage and underlying bone (osteochondral tissue) that cannot heal naturally after injury. The authors analyzed recent advances in engineering scaffolds with specific mechanical properties, chemical signals, and surface structures designed to guide cell behavior and tissue formation. Key findings highlight that while researchers have made progress in creating scaffolds with appropriate large-scale structures, significant challenges remain in replicating the complex, multi-layered architecture of natural cartilage and bone that provides cells with crucial biological cues at different size scales. The review emphasizes that successful osteochondral repair requires scaffolds that can promote proper cell differentiation and matrix production to restore the unique structural and mechanical properties of this specialized joint tissue.

IMPLICATIONS OF TRAUMA AND SUBSEQUENT ARTICULATION ON THE RELEASE OF PROTEOGLYCAN-4 AND TISSUE RESPONSE IN ADULT HUMAN ANKLE CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.23397 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:38:44
This study investigated how mechanical trauma and subsequent joint movement affect adult human ankle cartilage, specifically examining the release of proteoglycan-4 (PRG4), a key joint lubricant. The researchers used cartilage samples from human ankle bones, subjected them to impact injury, then applied controlled movement and loading in a specialized joint simulator for 5 days while measuring various biological responses.

The main findings showed that cartilage injury immediately triggered protective responses, including increased PRG4 release and enhanced tissue repair activity, though it also caused significant cell death and tissue damage within 24 hours. Subsequent joint movement did not cause additional structural damage to either injured or healthy cartilage, but it did increase the loss of cartilage components into surrounding fluid and reduced PRG4 release from injured samples.

The study demonstrates that human ankle cartilage has an immediate protective response to injury by increasing production of joint lubricants and repair molecules, while controlled movement after injury appears relatively neutral—neither significantly beneficial nor harmful to the healing process.

EARLY IN SITU CHANGES IN CHONDROCYTE BIOMECHANICAL RESPONSES DUE TO A PARTIAL MENISCECTOMY IN THE LATERAL COMPARTMENT OF THE MATURE RABBIT KNEE JOINT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2016.10.039 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:38:35
This study investigated how partial meniscus removal affects cartilage cell behavior in rabbit knee joints. The researchers used a specialized microscopy system to measure how individual cartilage cells (chondrocytes) responded to mechanical loading at different locations in rabbit knees just three days after partial meniscectomy surgery. They found that cells throughout the knee joint showed altered mechanical responses compared to normal knees, with some areas (patella, femoral groove, lateral femoral condyle) showing greater cell compression and others (medial femur and tibia) showing less deformation during loading. Importantly, these cellular changes occurred very early—within just three days of surgery—before any detectable changes in the tissue's overall structure or mechanical properties, suggesting that cells may serve as early indicators of cartilage damage following meniscus injury.

ARTICULAR CONTACT MECHANICS FROM AN ASYMPTOTIC MODELING PERSPECTIVE: A REVIEW.

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2016.00083 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:38:28
This review paper examines the current state of asymptotic modeling approaches for understanding how joint surfaces make contact, with particular focus on knee joint mechanics. The authors systematically reviewed existing asymptotic models that describe cartilage behavior and contact patterns in joints, emphasizing how these models can determine average properties of cartilage layers. The review identifies that asymptotic modeling can account for complex factors including cartilage anisotropy (directional properties), non-uniform tissue composition, varying thickness, large deformations, shear forces, and bone deformation. The authors highlight remaining challenges and future research directions needed to better understand joint contact mechanics through this mathematical modeling approach.

EFFECT OF CROSSLINKING IN CARTILAGE-LIKE COLLAGEN MICROSTRUCTURES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2016.10.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:38:23
This study aimed to investigate how crosslinking between collagen fibrils affects the mechanical behavior of cartilage-like tissue structures. The researchers developed a computational spring-node model based on articular cartilage's collagen network and tested how crosslink density and stiffness influenced mechanical performance under loading. The key finding was that crosslink density, rather than individual crosslink stiffness, dramatically affected tissue behavior - highly crosslinked networks maintained normal structure and showed better resistance to deformation and recovery, while sparsely crosslinked networks developed disease-like configurations during loading. These results suggest that collagen interconnectivity plays a crucial role in cartilage health and may help explain the early mechanical changes that occur in diseases like osteoarthritis.

ULTRASONOGRAPHIC ASSESSMENT OF MEDIAL FEMORAL CARTILAGE DEFORMATION ACUTELY FOLLOWING WALKING AND RUNNING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2016.12.026 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:38:16
This study aimed to measure how much knee cartilage compresses after walking and running exercise using ultrasound imaging. Twenty-five healthy participants underwent ultrasound assessment of medial femoral cartilage thickness before and after three 30-minute conditions: walking, running, and sitting (control). Both walking and running caused significant cartilage compression (6.7% and 8.9% thickness reduction respectively) compared to sitting, which showed slight expansion (3.4% increase), but there was no significant difference in compression between walking and running. The study demonstrated that ultrasound is a reliable method for measuring acute cartilage changes, with both weight-bearing activities producing similar levels of cartilage deformation in healthy individuals.

ACUTE CHANGES IN KNEE CARTILAGE TRANSVERSE RELAXATION TIME AFTER RUNNING AND BICYCLING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2017.01.017 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:38:11
This study compared how running versus bicycling with equivalent cumulative loads affects knee cartilage composition in 15 healthy young men (average age 26 years). The researchers used force measurements to match the total load between 15-minute running sessions and longer bicycling sessions, then measured cartilage transverse relaxation time (T2) using 3T MRI before and after each activity on separate visits. Running caused a significant 7.1% decrease in cartilage T2 values, while bicycling produced no meaningful change (-1.7%), indicating that activity type matters more than total load exposure for acute cartilage responses. Additionally, participants with higher baseline physical activity levels showed smaller T2 changes in tibial cartilage after exercise, suggesting that regular activity may condition cartilage to be more resistant to acute loading effects.

EFFECTS OF ACL GRAFT PLACEMENT ON IN VIVO KNEE FUNCTION AND CARTILAGE THICKNESS DISTRIBUTIONS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.23541 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:38:04
This review examined how the placement of ACL reconstruction grafts affects knee function and cartilage health to better understand post-surgical outcomes. The researchers used advanced 3D imaging and modeling techniques to compare two different graft placement approaches: anatomic placement within the native ACL footprint versus non-anatomic placement outside this area on the femur. The study found that anatomically placed grafts better restored normal ACL function and knee movement patterns during daily activities. Most importantly, knees with anatomic graft placement experienced less cartilage thinning compared to those with non-anatomic placement, suggesting that proper graft positioning may help slow the development of osteoarthritis after ACL reconstruction.

BIOFABRICATED SOFT NETWORK COMPOSITES FOR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING.

DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/aa6b15 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:37:59
This study aimed to develop biofabricated composite materials that better mimic the structure and mechanical properties of natural articular cartilage for tissue engineering applications. The researchers combined melt electrospun polycaprolactone (mPCL) fiber networks with highly negatively charged star-shaped poly(ethylene glycol)/heparin hydrogels to create fiber-reinforced constructs, and developed a finite element model to analyze their mechanical behavior. The resulting composites successfully replicated key cartilage characteristics including mechanical anisotropy, nonlinearity, viscoelasticity, and stress relaxation properties, while also supporting human chondrocyte growth and cartilage formation in laboratory culture. Notably, this represents the first tissue-engineered cartilage construct to capture the complete range of transient, equilibrium, and dynamic mechanical properties found in human articular cartilage.

A PRECLINICAL ASSESSMENT OF EARLY CONTINUOUS PASSIVE MOTION AND TREADMILL THERAPEUTIC EXERCISES FOR GENERATING CHONDROPROTECTIVE EFFECTS AFTER ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RUPTURE.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546517704847 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:37:53
This study investigated whether continuous passive motion (CPM) therapy, with or without treadmill exercise, could protect cartilage and reduce post-traumatic osteoarthritis risk after ACL injury. Researchers used 30 rabbits with surgically transected ACLs, randomly assigned to sedentary, CPM only, treadmill exercise only, or combined CPM+treadmill groups, then evaluated cartilage health after 4 weeks using gross appearance, histology, and osteoarthritis scoring. CPM therapy alone provided the best cartilage protection, maintaining normal joint surfaces, healthy cartilage structure, and lower inflammatory markers compared to other groups. In contrast, both treadmill exercise (alone or combined with CPM) and inactivity led to cartilage damage, suggesting that early loading exercise may be detrimental while gentle passive motion promotes cartilage healing after ACL injury.

THE SPATIO-TEMPORAL MECHANICAL ENVIRONMENT OF HEALTHY AND INJURED HUMAN CARTILAGE DURING SUSTAINED ACTIVITY AND ITS ROLE IN CARTILAGE DAMAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2017.05.018 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:37:47
This study aimed to understand how cartilage with different types of prior injuries responds to sustained loading and how this affects tissue damage risk. The researchers used a validated computational model to simulate the mechanical consolidation (compression and fluid loss) of healthy and injured cartilage under static loads, comparing results with experimental friction measurements. They found that cartilage with complete meniscectomy or full-thickness defects consolidates much faster than healthy tissue, losing its ability to maintain protective fluid pressurization during prolonged loading. Importantly, they discovered a strong relationship between cartilage consolidation and friction coefficient, suggesting that measuring cartilage consolidation through medical imaging could provide a non-invasive way to assess joint friction and predict cartilage damage risk.

ALTERATIONS IN STRUCTURAL MACROMOLECULES AND CHONDROCYTE DEFORMATIONS IN LAPINE RETROPATELLAR CARTILAGE 9 WEEKS AFTER ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT TRANSECTION.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.23650 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:37:42
This study investigated how early osteoarthritis changes in cartilage structure affect chondrocyte (cartilage cell) deformation in a rabbit model 9 weeks after anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT). The researchers used microscopic techniques to measure proteoglycan content, collagen content, and collagen orientation in the cartilage matrix, then correlated these measurements with changes in cell shape during mechanical loading. The key findings showed that ACLT caused significant alterations in collagen orientation and reduced proteoglycan content in the superficial cartilage layer, which directly correlated with abnormal chondrocyte deformation patterns. Importantly, the pericellular matrix (the immediate environment around cells) retained more proteoglycans than the surrounding tissue, suggesting it may serve as a protective barrier against excessive cell deformation in early osteoarthritis.

IN VIVO PERFORMANCE OF A NOVEL, ANATOMICALLY SHAPED, TOTAL MENISCAL PROSTHESIS MADE OF POLYCARBONATE URETHANE: A 12-MONTH EVALUATION IN GOATS.

DOI: 10.1177/0363546517713687 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:37:36
This study evaluated the performance of a new artificial meniscus made from polycarbonate urethane in a goat model over 12 months. Researchers implanted the prosthetic meniscus in 26 goats and compared outcomes to three control groups: meniscal allograft, total meniscectomy, and sham surgery, assessing implant durability and cartilage protection. The artificial meniscus showed good wear resistance and minimal deformation, though one implant failed due to tearing at the posterior attachment point. While the implant did not prevent cartilage degeneration better than existing treatments, it performed similarly to meniscal allografts, suggesting potential as an alternative treatment option for patients who have had their meniscus completely removed.

THE SECRET LIFE OF COLLAGEN: TEMPORAL CHANGES IN NANOSCALE FIBRILLAR PRE-STRAIN AND MOLECULAR ORGANIZATION DURING PHYSIOLOGICAL LOADING OF CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.7b00563 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:37:31
This study investigated how collagen fibrils within cartilage respond at the molecular level during mechanical loading, using small-angle X-ray diffraction to measure real-time changes in bovine and human cartilage samples under compression. The researchers discovered that collagen fibrils exist in a pre-strained (stretched) state of 1-2% due to osmotic pressure from proteoglycans, and this pre-strain rapidly decreases and recovers about 60 seconds after peak loading during stress relaxation. The reduction in pre-strain was accompanied by molecular disorganization within the fibrils and changes in how collagen molecules overlap, and when proteoglycans were artificially removed, both the pre-strain and the dynamic response were disrupted. These findings provide new insights into the nanoscale mechanisms underlying cartilage biomechanics and may help explain how cartilage degenerates in conditions like osteoarthritis.

CALCIUM SIGNALING OF IN SITU CHONDROCYTES IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER COMPRESSIVE LOADING: ROLES OF CALCIUM SOURCES AND CELL MEMBRANE ION CHANNELS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.23768 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:37:25
This study aimed to investigate how calcium signaling in chondrocytes (cartilage cells) responds to mechanical loading within their natural tissue environment. The researchers developed a specialized microscopy device that could simultaneously apply compressive forces to cartilage samples while imaging calcium responses in individual cells embedded within the tissue. The study found that mechanical loading significantly enhanced calcium signaling in chondrocytes, causing faster calcium oscillations compared to unloaded tissue, and that extracellular calcium was essential for initiating these responses. Through systematic testing of seven different signaling pathways using specific inhibitors, the researchers identified critical roles for multiple ion channels (TRPV4, T-type calcium channels, and mechanosensitive channels) and cellular mechanisms in controlling how chondrocytes sense and respond to mechanical forces in their natural matrix environment.

THE CRITICAL SIZE OF FOCAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFECTS IS ASSOCIATED WITH STRAINS IN THE COLLAGEN FIBERS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2017.09.015 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:37:18
This study investigated why there appears to be a critical size threshold for cartilage defects that determines whether they will heal naturally or require surgical treatment. The researchers used finite element computer simulations to model cartilage defects ranging from 0.5 to 8mm in diameter, analyzing how different defect sizes affected strain (mechanical stress) in the surrounding healthy cartilage tissue under both impact and sustained loading conditions. The key finding was that while overall tissue strains increased gradually with defect size, the area where collagen fibers exceeded failure thresholds increased dramatically once defects reached a certain size, creating a sharp transition that may explain the critical size phenomenon observed clinically. The study also showed that filling defects with implants restored strain levels back to those seen in healthy cartilage, supporting the biomechanical rationale for surgical intervention in larger defects.

THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN HABITUAL WALKING SPEED AND MEDIAL FEMORAL CARTILAGE DEFORMATION FOLLOWING 30MINUTES OF WALKING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2017.09.039 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:37:11
This study investigated how a person's typical walking speed relates to knee cartilage changes during walking activity. The researchers measured habitual walking speed in 24 healthy participants using a 20-meter walk test, then used ultrasonography to assess femoral cartilage thickness before and immediately after 30 minutes of walking across three knee regions (medial, lateral, and intercondylar areas). The key finding was that people who walk slower habitually showed significantly greater deformation (compression) of the medial femoral cartilage after walking, while no associations were found for lateral or intercondylar regions, and walking speed did not relate to resting cartilage thickness. When body mass index was included in the analysis, it partially explained this relationship, suggesting that BMI may influence how walking speed affects cartilage loading patterns.

ACUTE EFFECT OF A RESISTANCE EXERCISE SESSION ON MARKERS OF CARTILAGE BREAKDOWN AND INFLAMMATION IN WOMEN WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1111/1756-185X.13204 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:37:05
This study examined how a single resistance exercise session affects blood markers of cartilage breakdown and inflammation in women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Thirty-four women (17 with RA, 17 without) performed a 25-minute lower-body resistance exercise session, with blood samples collected before, during, and up to 24 hours after exercise to measure inflammatory markers and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP). Both groups showed similar inflammatory responses to exercise, with increases in anti-inflammatory markers (IL-10 and IL-1RA) suggesting that resistance exercise may have acute anti-inflammatory effects. However, women with RA showed more pronounced changes in COMP levels, indicating greater cartilage breakdown sensitivity to exercise compared to healthy controls.

THE INFLUENCES OF WALKING, RUNNING AND STAIR ACTIVITY ON KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: QUANTITATIVE MRI USING T1 RHO AND T2 MAPPING.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187008 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:37:00
This study investigated how different physical activities affect knee cartilage composition by comparing the acute effects of walking, running, and stair climbing in 23 healthy young adults. The researchers used quantitative MRI with T1 rho and T2 mapping sequences to measure cartilage changes immediately after 30 minutes of each activity compared to rest. All three activities caused reductions in T1 rho and T2 values throughout the knee cartilage, with stair climbing producing the greatest changes, followed by running, then walking. The patellofemoral joint (kneecap area) showed the most significant changes, particularly in the superficial cartilage layers, suggesting these MRI techniques can effectively detect activity-related cartilage loading and may help understand how different exercises impact joint health.

COMPRESSION-RATE-DEPENDENT NONLINEAR MECHANICS OF NORMAL AND IMPAIRED PORCINE KNEE JOINTS.

DOI: 10.1186/s12891-017-1805-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:36:54
This study investigated how compression speed affects the mechanical behavior of normal and damaged porcine knee joints to better understand joint loading mechanisms. The researchers tested 45 fresh porcine knee joints under different compression rates and conditions, including normal joints, dehydrated joints, and joints with complete meniscus removal (meniscectomy), measuring force-compression relationships and time-dependent responses like creep and relaxation.

The key finding was that normal knee joints showed strong rate-dependent behavior, with reaction forces varying 6-fold across different compression speeds for the same amount of joint compression, while static loading produced essentially linear responses that became increasingly nonlinear at faster compression rates. Both dehydration and meniscectomy significantly reduced the joint's load-bearing capacity by up to 60%, though dehydration mainly affected temporary load support while meniscectomy impaired both temporary and long-term load support, supporting the theory that fluid pressurization is a critical mechanism for joint function.

NUMERICAL STUDY OF TEMPERATURE EFFECTS ON THE PORO-VISCOELASTIC BEHAVIOR OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2017.11.023 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:36:47
This study aimed to investigate how temperature affects the mechanical behavior of articular cartilage using computational modeling. The researchers developed a finite element model that treats cartilage as a biphasic mixture of solid and fluid components, incorporating temperature-dependent material properties and using the generalized Maxwell model to capture viscoelastic behavior. They tested the model under different loading conditions (confined, unconfined, and partial loading) to examine how temperature influences cartilage deformation, fluid pressure, and stress distribution. The results demonstrated that temperature has significant effects on both the poro-elastic (fluid flow-related) and viscoelastic (time-dependent) mechanical responses of articular cartilage.

DIFFERENTIAL EFFECTS OF SUPEROXIDE DISMUTASE MIMETICS AFTER MECHANICAL OVERLOAD OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.3390/antiox6040098 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:36:42
This study investigated whether superoxide dismutase mimetics (antioxidant compounds) could protect cartilage cells from damage caused by mechanical overloading, which can lead to post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The researchers tested three different mimetic compounds (GC4403, MnTE-2-PyP, and MnTnBuOE-2-PyP) on bovine cartilage samples subjected to either single impact injuries or repeated overloading using specialized mechanical testing platforms. In acute impact scenarios, all three mimetics provided dose-dependent protection against cell death and mitochondrial damage, but under chronic overloading conditions, only the lipid-soluble compound MnTnBuOE-2-PyP was effective. The findings suggest that different types of mechanical injury generate superoxide in different cellular locations, with chronic overload particularly affecting lipid compartments, indicating that targeted antioxidant therapies may need to be tailored to the specific type of cartilage injury.

COMPREHENSIVELY ASSESSING THE ACUTE FEMORAL CARTILAGE RESPONSE AND RECOVERY AFTER WALKING AND DROP-LANDING: AN ULTRASONOGRAPHIC STUDY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2017.10.009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:36:35
This study aimed to compare how femoral cartilage responds to and recovers from different loading activities (walking vs. drop-landing) using ultrasonography. The researchers used ultrasound to measure cartilage thickness, cross-sectional area, and echo intensity in 43 healthy young adults before and after each activity, with follow-up measurements at 15, 30, and 45 minutes post-exercise. Both walking and drop-landing caused immediate cartilage deformation (compression) in the medial and lateral femoral cartilage compared to a control condition, but the higher-impact drop-landing activity required longer recovery time than walking. Importantly, the mechanical deformation was not associated with changes in cartilage echo intensity, suggesting the loading was within normal physiological limits without tissue damage.

EFFECT OF VERTICAL OR BEVELED CHONDRAL DEFECT CREATION ON RIM DEFORMATION AND CONTACT.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603517752058 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:36:29
This study investigated how different cartilage defect edge shapes affect surrounding tissue mechanics and bone contact in knee joints. Researchers created three types of defects in bovine knee samples (inner beveled, vertical, and outer beveled edges) and used micro-CT imaging under 800N loading to measure cartilage strain and contact between cartilage and underlying bone. The results showed no significant differences in cartilage strain around the defect edges between the different defect shapes, though there were some differences in bone contact patterns. The findings suggest that creating an inner bevel when surgically debriding cartilage defects may reduce harmful tissue deformation and bone-on-cartilage contact compared to other edge configurations.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE RESPONSE TO A SLIDING LOAD USING TWO DIFFERENT-SIZED SPHERICAL INDENTERS1.

DOI: 10.3233/BIR-16110 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:36:23
This study investigated how different contact geometries affect both mechanical and biological responses in articular cartilage under sliding loads. Researchers subjected cartilage explants to 2000 cycles of reciprocating sliding motion using either small (17.6 mm) or large (30.2 mm) spherical indenters, then measured mechanical deformation and analyzed tissue damage, gene expression, and proteoglycan loss. The smaller indenter caused significantly greater cartilage deformation and strain, reduced the tissue's stiffness, and triggered more proteoglycan loss and upregulation of genes associated with cartilage breakdown enzymes compared to the larger indenter. The findings demonstrate that loading conditions producing higher tissue strains activate harmful catabolic processes in cartilage, providing insight into how joint contact mechanics influence cartilage health and degeneration.

COLLAGEN DAMAGE LOCATION IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DIFFERS IF DAMAGE IS CAUSED BY EXCESSIVE LOADING MAGNITUDE OR RATE.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-018-1986-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:36:17
This study investigated how different loading conditions affect where collagen damage occurs in articular cartilage. Researchers compressed bovine cartilage samples with varying forces (15-45 N) and loading speeds (5-120 mm/min), then used histological analysis to assess surface and internal collagen damage. The key finding was that while loading magnitude determined the severity of damage, loading rate controlled damage location: slow loading primarily damaged superficial collagen, whereas rapid loading caused internal collagen damage. The authors suggest this occurs because cartilage's time-dependent properties and internal fluid flow patterns create different strain distributions depending on loading speed, which has important implications for understanding early cartilage degeneration mechanisms.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND MEDITERRANEAN DIET BASED ON OLIVE TREE PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS FROM TWO DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS HAVE PROTECTIVE EFFECTS ON EARLY OSTEOARTHRITIS, MUSCLE ATROPHY AND HEPATIC STEATOSIS.

DOI: 10.1007/s00394-018-1632-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:36:11
This study investigated whether combining physical activity with Mediterranean diet components (extra virgin olive oil and olive leaf extracts) could protect against early osteoarthritis and related complications in rats. Researchers induced osteoarthritis in rats through ligament injury, then treated different groups with treadmill exercise (10 minutes daily, 5 days/week) plus diets enriched with olive oil from Sicily or Tunisia for 12 weeks, measuring cartilage damage, inflammation markers, muscle changes, and liver health. The combined treatment significantly improved cartilage health by increasing lubricin (a joint-protective protein) and reducing IL-6 (an inflammatory marker), while also preventing muscle wasting and liver fat accumulation compared to untreated osteoarthritic rats. The Sicilian olive oil showed the strongest protective effects, suggesting that physical activity combined with high-quality olive oil consumption may help slow early osteoarthritis progression and maintain overall musculoskeletal health.

ACUTE SERUM CARTILAGE BIOMARKER RESPONSE AFTER WALKING AND DROP LANDING.

DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000001585 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:36:04
This study examined how different types of physical loading affect cartilage biomarkers in healthy individuals by measuring acute changes in serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) levels. Forty recreationally active participants completed three conditions (walking, drop-landing, and sitting control) with blood samples taken before and after each activity to measure COMP concentration changes. Both walking and drop-landing increased COMP levels by approximately 4-5% compared to a 2.3% decrease during the control condition, but the two physical activities showed similar responses despite their different loading characteristics. The findings suggest that cartilage responds acutely to physical loading regardless of whether the activity involves repetitive low-impact (walking) or high-impact (drop-landing) forces, indicating a general cartilage response to mechanical stress.

A NEW MECHANICAL INDENTATION FRAMEWORK FOR FUNCTIONAL ASSESSMENT OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2018.02.028 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:35:58
This study aimed to develop a new mechanical testing method that could better detect cartilage damage compared to conventional stiffness measurements, which often fail to distinguish healthy from degraded cartilage. The researchers used a ring-shaped indenter combined with ultrasound to test bovine cartilage samples during loading and unloading cycles, measuring two key parameters: L (distance between ultrasound probe and cartilage surface) and TS (transient strain) in the tissue surrounding the loaded area. Testing was performed on normal cartilage and samples with varying degrees of enzymatic degradation to simulate disease.

The key finding was that parameter L could successfully differentiate between normal and proteoglycan-depleted (degraded) cartilage, particularly during the unloading/recovery phase, while the conventional parameter TS could not make this distinction. The study demonstrates that monitoring the mechanical response of tissue surrounding the loaded area, rather than just the loaded area itself, provides better functional assessment of cartilage health and may offer a more sensitive diagnostic tool for early cartilage degeneration.

LOCAL AND GLOBAL MEASUREMENTS SHOW THAT DAMAGE INITIATION IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IS INHIBITED BY THE SURFACE LAYER AND HAS SIGNIFICANT RATE DEPENDENCE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2018.02.033 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:35:51
This study investigated how cracks initiate in articular cartilage by developing a novel sharp blade indentation method combined with confocal elastography to measure both global forces and local tissue deformation during damage initiation across different loading rates (0.5-500%/s strain rates). The researchers tested cartilage samples with and without the surface layer to determine its protective role, while avoiding limitations of traditional blunt impact and fracture mechanics approaches.

The key findings revealed that cartilage's compliant surface layer significantly protects against damage initiation by allowing greater deformation before tissue failure, and that cartilage becomes easier to cut at faster loading speeds due to rate-dependent material properties. Additionally, despite cartilage's complex structure, the local deformation patterns followed classical elastic behavior, suggesting that simple mechanical models can still be useful for understanding cartilage failure mechanics when combined with detailed local measurements.

ACUTE EFFECTS OF WALKING ON THE DEFORMATION OF FEMORAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN OLDER ADULTS.

DOI: 10.1519/JPT.0000000000000185 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:35:44
This study investigated how a 30-minute bout of fast walking affects femoral cartilage thickness in older adults with and without knee osteoarthritis (OA), and examined whether knee alignment influences cartilage response to loading. The researchers used MRI to measure cartilage thickness before and immediately after walking in 10 healthy controls and 9 participants with knee OA, then calculated percent changes in cartilage thickness and analyzed relationships with frontal plane knee alignment. The study found no significant differences in walking-induced cartilage deformation between the OA and control groups in either the medial or lateral femur. However, participants with greater knee valgus (knock-knee) alignment showed more deformation in the lateral femoral cartilage after walking, suggesting that knee alignment rather than OA status may be more important in determining cartilage response to acute loading.

SHEEP AS A MODEL FOR EVALUATING MESENCHYMAL STEM/STROMAL CELL (MSC)-BASED CHONDRAL DEFECT REPAIR.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2018.03.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:35:38
This review examines the use of sheep as a preclinical model for testing mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based treatments for cartilage repair. The authors focused on reviewing the biological properties of sheep-derived MSCs and their application in cartilage repair studies, as sheep offer anatomical and loading similarities to humans while being more cost-effective than other large animal models. The review highlights that while MSCs offer advantages over traditional cartilage cells (such as better expansion capacity and no need for cartilage biopsies), they face challenges in consistently producing stable cartilage-forming cells that generate high-quality hyaline cartilage. The authors conclude that sheep models using ovine MSCs represent a valuable but underexplored approach for advancing cartilage repair strategies toward clinical translation.

ACUTE AND MID-TERM (SIX-WEEK) EFFECTS OF AN ANKLE-FOOT-ORTHOSIS ON BIOMECHANICAL PARAMETERS, CLINICAL OUTCOMES AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS PATIENTS WITH VARUS MALALIGNMENT.

DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2018.03.034 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:35:32
This study evaluated whether a novel ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) could improve knee loading and function in 29 knee osteoarthritis patients with varus malalignment over a 6-week period. Researchers used 3D gait analysis, physical function tests, KOOS questionnaires, and accelerometer-measured activity levels to assess changes immediately after fitting and after 6 weeks of wear. The AFO successfully reduced harmful knee adduction moments by 27-41%, indicating decreased medial compartment loading, and led to small improvements in physical function test performance (1.4-2.6% faster completion times). However, the device also increased knee flexion moments by 48-71% and worsened patient-reported outcomes on KOOS subscales, leading the authors to question whether the clinical benefits justify the intervention despite the positive biomechanical effects.

REPRODUCTION OF CHARACTERISTICS OF EXTRACELLULAR MATRICES IN SPECIFIC LONGITUDINAL DEPTH ZONE CARTILAGE WITHIN SPHERICAL ORGANOIDS IN RESPONSE TO CHANGES IN OSMOTIC PRESSURE.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051507 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:35:25
This study investigated how changes in osmotic pressure affect cartilage matrix production by chondrocytes from different zones (surface, middle, and deep) of articular cartilage. The researchers created spherical organoids from zone-specific chondrocytes and exposed them to different osmotic pressure levels, then analyzed gene expression and matrix protein production using immunohistology. High osmotic pressure increased aggrecan and collagen type-II production in all zones, but triggered zone-specific responses: surface zone cells upregulated collagen type-I, while middle and deep zone cells increased matrix metalloproteinase-13 expression. The findings demonstrate that chondrocytes respond to osmotic pressure changes in a zone-specific manner, which helps explain how different cartilage layers adapt to mechanical loading and may inform cartilage tissue engineering strategies.

OSTEOCHONDRAL RESURFACING IMPLANTATION ANGLE IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN IMPLANT MATERIAL STIFFNESS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.24101 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:35:20
This study investigated how implant placement accuracy and material properties affect cartilage stress patterns in osteochondral resurfacing procedures for treating focal cartilage defects. The researchers used 3D computer models to simulate different implantation angles (0°, 5°, 10°) and implant stiffness levels under loading and sliding conditions, measuring strain and pressure in surrounding cartilage tissue. The key finding was that proper implant alignment (0° angle) was more critical than implant material stiffness for protecting adjacent cartilage from harmful deformation. Even small misalignments created gaps that caused potentially damaging cartilage bulging and increased stress during weight-bearing activities, regardless of whether the implant material was soft or stiff, highlighting the importance of precise surgical placement over implant material selection.

CARTILAGE-ON-CARTILAGE CONTACT: EFFECT OF COMPRESSIVE LOADING ON TISSUE DEFORMATIONS AND STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF BOVINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2018.08.009 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:35:13
This study investigated how compressive loading affects cartilage deformation and tissue structure in bovine cartilage samples using an experimental setup that mimics natural joint contact. The researchers used advanced MRI techniques at 9.4T to measure tissue displacement and strain patterns during cyclic loading (350N), while also tracking changes in cartilage composition through T₁, T₂, and T₁ρ relaxation times before and after loading.

The results showed predictable deformation patterns across all samples, with maximum strains occurring at the cartilage surface and decreasing toward deeper layers, while shear strains were highest at the contact edges rather than the center. Loading caused immediate changes in MRI relaxation times (decreased T₂ and T₁ρ, increased T₁), indicating tissue compaction, but surprisingly these compositional changes did not correlate with the observed deformation patterns.

FUNCTIONAL ASSESSMENT OF STRAINS AROUND A FULL-THICKNESS AND CRITICAL SIZED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFECT UNDER COMPRESSIVE LOADING USING MRI.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2018.08.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:35:07
This study investigated how full-thickness cartilage defects affect tissue deformation and composition during loading using an experimental model that mimics natural joint conditions. The researchers used pairs of bovine cartilage samples in a cartilage-on-cartilage setup, applying cyclic compression while measuring tissue strains with advanced MRI techniques (DENSE imaging) and assessing cartilage quality through relaxation time measurements. The key findings showed that cartilage defects created concentrated stress at the defect rim, with significantly elevated tensile, compressive, and shear strains compared to intact cartilage, while the opposing cartilage surface showed reduced strains when contacting the defect area. The study also revealed that both defect creation and subsequent loading led to changes in cartilage composition (indicated by altered MRI relaxation times), particularly at the defect rim, suggesting that the altered mechanical environment around cartilage defects may promote further tissue damage and degeneration.

MENISCI PROTECT CHONDROCYTES FROM LOAD-INDUCED INJURY.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32503-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:34:59
This study aimed to investigate how meniscal loss affects cartilage cell survival during joint loading using a novel live imaging approach. The researchers developed a microscopy-based system to observe microscale joint mechanics in living mice during controlled muscle contractions, allowing them to track chondrocyte (cartilage cell) responses in real-time. The key finding was that meniscal loss leads to rapid chondrocyte death (necrosis) within hours of injury when the knee is loaded, while intact menisci protect these cells from load-induced damage. These results suggest that preventing early chondrocyte death should be a priority for treatment interventions following meniscal injury, as this rapid cell death may be a critical early step in the development of osteoarthritis.

OBESITY ALTERS THE IN VIVO MECHANICAL RESPONSE AND BIOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF CARTILAGE AS MEASURED BY MRI.

DOI: 10.1186/s13075-018-1727-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:34:53
This study investigated how obesity affects knee cartilage mechanics and composition in healthy individuals using MRI. Researchers used 3T MRI to measure cartilage geometry and T1rho relaxation times in 15 subjects (8 normal BMI, 7 high BMI) before and after treadmill walking, creating 3D models to assess cartilage thickness and strain responses to loading. The key findings showed that individuals with higher BMI had significantly increased cartilage strain during loading, elevated T1rho relaxation times (indicating reduced proteoglycan content), and thinner baseline cartilage thickness compared to normal-weight subjects. These results suggest that obesity causes measurable changes in cartilage structure and mechanical behavior that may represent early, pre-symptomatic signs of osteoarthritic degeneration even in otherwise healthy individuals.

EFFECTS OF CREEP AND CREEP-RECOVERY ON RATCHETING STRAIN OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER CYCLIC COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2018.10.047 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:34:47
This study investigated how creep (time-dependent deformation under constant load) and recovery processes affect ratcheting strain (progressive deformation under repeated loading) in articular cartilage, as these combined deformations may accelerate cartilage damage during normal joint activities. The researchers conducted compression tests on cartilage samples under various loading conditions, including pre-creep phases, recovery periods, and cyclic loading with different peak-holding times, while measuring strain accumulation across different cartilage layers.

The key findings showed that pre-creep significantly increased initial ratcheting strain by 30-35%, even with short pre-creep durations, and that allowing recovery periods after pre-creep partially reduced this effect. Additionally, incorporating peak-holding periods during cyclic compression substantially increased creep-ratcheting strain compared to continuous cycling, with the magnitude dependent on holding time, stress amplitude, and loading rate.

The study demonstrated that cartilage's response to these loading patterns varies by depth, and that accumulated deformations from both creep and ratcheting mechanisms can accelerate cartilage damage, providing important insights for understanding joint degeneration under physiological loading conditions.

SHOCK ABSORBING ABILITY IN HEALTHY AND DAMAGED CARTILAGE-BONE UNDER HIGH-RATE COMPRESSION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2018.10.023 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:34:39
This study investigated how cartilage damage affects the shock-absorbing ability of cartilage-bone units under high-impact loading. The researchers removed the top 50% of cartilage thickness (mimicking Grade III cartilage lesions) from samples and subjected them to high-rate compression (4% strain at 5 Hz), using high-speed cameras and digital image correlation to measure deformation and calculate mechanical properties like stiffness and energy absorption. The key findings showed that removing the top cartilage layers significantly reduced cartilage stiffness by 39% and increased energy absorption in the underlying bone by 32%, making the bone more vulnerable to damage. These results demonstrate that the superficial and middle zones of cartilage play a crucial protective role in shielding underlying bone from high-impact forces, with important implications for understanding joint vulnerability in conditions like osteoarthritis.

INFLUENCE OF A PERIODIZED CIRCUIT TRAINING PROTOCOL ON INTERMUSCULAR ADIPOSE TISSUE OF PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: PROTOCOL FOR A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL.

DOI: 10.1186/s12891-018-2325-y · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:34:34
This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate whether a 14-week periodized circuit training program can reduce intermuscular adipose tissue (fat between muscles) in the thigh and improve various health outcomes in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The study will compare three groups of 60 participants (ages 40-65) with moderate knee OA: one receiving circuit training with exercises of varying intensities, another doing traditional strength training, and a control group receiving educational sessions about healthy lifestyles. Researchers will measure thigh fat using CT scans, body composition, inflammatory markers, cartilage breakdown products, muscle strength, physical performance, and patient-reported pain and function before and after the 14-week intervention. This represents the first study to examine how circuit training specifically affects intermuscular fat accumulation in knee osteoarthritis patients, potentially offering a low-cost, non-invasive treatment approach.

SPONTANEOUS CALCIUM SIGNALING OF CARTILAGE CELLS: FROM SPATIOTEMPORAL FEATURES TO BIOPHYSICAL MODELING.

DOI: 10.1096/fj.201801460R · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:34:27
This study aimed to investigate spontaneous calcium signaling in chondrocytes (cartilage cells), which were previously thought to only respond to external stimuli like mechanical loading. The researchers used live cell calcium imaging to observe spontaneous calcium oscillations, statistical analysis to characterize their patterns, biophysical modeling to explain the mechanisms, and pharmacological testing with pathway inhibitors to identify key signaling components.

The key findings demonstrated that chondrocytes exhibit robust spontaneous calcium signaling with unique "fingerprint" patterns for each cell, following predictable statistical distributions that suggest an autocatalytic, threshold-controlled mechanism. The researchers identified that spontaneous calcium peaks require extracellular calcium and involve specific pathways including PLC-IP3 signaling, purinoceptors, and TRPV4 channels, while voltage-gated calcium channels actually suppress this spontaneous activity.

THE EFFECT OF FIBRILLAR DEGRADATION ON THE MECHANICS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: A COMPUTATIONAL MODEL.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-018-01112-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:34:21
This study aimed to understand how microscopic damage to cartilage fibrils affects the overall mechanical behavior of cartilage tissue using computational modeling. The researchers developed a multiscale model to simulate two types of fibril degradation mechanisms - crosslink failure between collagen molecules and generalized surface degradation - and tested their effects on tissue mechanics through simulated nanoindentation tests across different cartilage layers. The key finding was that while cartilage tissue mechanics depend on fibril properties, the tissue can withstand approximately 10% more strain than individual fibrils, with yield strain varying from ~27-37% at the tissue level compared to ~16-26% at the fibril level for crosslink failure. The results demonstrate that different degradation mechanisms have distinct effects on cartilage mechanics, with the tissue's enhanced resilience attributed to fiber-matrix interactions and the depth-dependent organization of cartilage structure.

EFFECT OF CIRCADIAN RHYTHM, AGE, TRAINING AND ACUTE LAMENESS ON SERUM CONCENTRATIONS OF CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN (COMP) NEO-EPITOPE IN HORSES.

DOI: 10.1111/evj.13082 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:34:14
This study investigated whether a specific breakdown product of cartilage (COMP neo-epitope) could serve as a blood biomarker for detecting early joint damage in horses. The researchers used custom-developed blood tests to measure COMP neo-epitope levels in healthy horses during exercise, horses with acute lameness, and examined cartilage tissue samples under microscopy.

The key finding was that lame horses had dramatically higher blood levels of COMP neo-epitope compared to healthy horses (5.24 vs 0.84 μg/mL), and this marker was only present in damaged cartilage tissue, not in normal cartilage. The biomarker levels were not affected by age or daily rhythms, though they temporarily decreased during intense exercise before returning to normal levels.

These results suggest that measuring COMP neo-epitope in blood could potentially help veterinarians detect cartilage breakdown associated with joint lameness in horses, offering a promising tool for early osteoarthritis diagnosis.

QUANTIFICATION OF PATELLOFEMORAL CARTILAGE DEFORMATION AND CONTACT AREA CHANGES IN RESPONSE TO STATIC LOADING VIA HIGH-RESOLUTION MRI WITH PROSPECTIVE MOTION CORRECTION.

DOI: 10.1002/jmri.26724 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:34:07
This study aimed to develop a robust MRI method for measuring how patellofemoral (kneecap) cartilage deforms and changes contact area under different loading conditions. The researchers used high-resolution 3T MRI with prospective motion correction (optical tracking to account for knee movement) and tested 15 healthy men under three loading conditions (0, 200, and 400 N), with cartilage measurements enhanced using deep learning segmentation techniques. The results showed that as load increased, cartilage contact area expanded significantly (14.5-19% increase), while both patellar and femoral cartilage became thinner (3.4-7.4% decrease depending on location and load). The motion correction and neural network processing made the measurements highly reproducible and reduced measurement variability by approximately 50% compared to manual segmentation alone.

EFFECT OF STRAIN RATE ON TRANSIENT LOCAL STRAIN VARIATIONS IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2019.03.022 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:34:00
This study investigated how the speed of loading affects strain distribution patterns throughout the depth of articular cartilage. The researchers developed a method to measure axial strain fields across the full thickness of cartilage samples under both static (constant) loading and dynamic loading at different rates. The key finding was that strain was distributed more evenly throughout the cartilage depth during dynamic loading compared to static loading, with higher strain rates producing even more uniform strain patterns than lower rates. These results suggest that the mechanical behavior of cartilage differs significantly between static and dynamic conditions, which has important implications for understanding joint function and developing cartilage replacement materials.

MECHANOSENSITIVE MIRS REGULATED BY ANABOLIC AND CATABOLIC LOADING OF HUMAN CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2019.04.010 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:33:55
This study aimed to investigate how mechanical loading affects microRNA (miR) expression in human cartilage and identify specific miRs that respond to beneficial versus harmful loading conditions, which could provide new targets for osteoarthritis treatment. The researchers used tissue-engineered human cartilage subjected to two different loading patterns - one that promotes cartilage building (anabolic) and one that promotes breakdown (catabolic) - followed by comprehensive miR analysis and validation in healthy versus osteoarthritic cartilage samples.

The key finding was that harmful catabolic loading dramatically altered the expression of 80 miRs, while beneficial anabolic loading caused only minor changes. The researchers identified two groups of mechanosensitive miRs: some that respond to both loading types (miR-221, miR-6872-3p, miR-6723-5p) and others that specifically respond only to harmful loading conditions, with miR-221 activity linked to a known cellular stress pathway (pERK1/2).

These mechanosensitive miRs were not permanently altered in osteoarthritic cartilage, suggesting they represent acute responses to mechanical stress rather than chronic disease markers.

CELLS UNDER PRESSURE - THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE AND MESENCHYMAL STEM CELL CHONDROGENESIS.

DOI: 10.22203/eCM.v037a22 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:33:47
This review examines how hydrostatic pressure affects the conversion of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into cartilage-forming cells for treating early osteoarthritis. The authors analyzed existing studies that applied uniform pressure around cells without deforming them, mimicking the natural fluid pressurization that occurs in cartilage during joint loading. The review found that hydrostatic pressure has beneficial (anabolic) effects on both existing cartilage cells and MSC transformation into cartilage cells, promoting better tissue formation. The authors conclude by discussing the biological mechanisms behind these pressure-induced benefits, which could improve tissue engineering approaches for cartilage repair.

A MULTISCALE SYNTHESIS: CHARACTERIZING ACUTE CARTILAGE FAILURE UNDER AN AGGREGATE TIBIOFEMORAL JOINT LOADING.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-019-01159-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:33:41
This study aimed to understand how acute cartilage damage occurs at the microscopic level by developing a comprehensive computer model that connects whole-joint mechanics with molecular-level cartilage structure. The researchers created a detailed finite element model of the entire tibiofemoral (knee) joint that incorporates the hierarchical structure of cartilage from the macro to micro scale, then simulated the joint under both normal (2000 N) and high (up to 7000 N) loading conditions at 30° knee flexion. The model successfully predicted joint responses that matched previous experimental data and showed that cartilage damage begins as micro-defects in collagen fibrils, primarily in the superficial and middle layers of tibial cartilage. Additionally, the simulations revealed that stiffer cartilage fibrils (with more cross-links) require higher stress to fail but then yield more rapidly once damage begins, providing new insights into the relationship between cartilage structure and failure mechanisms.

THE EFFECT OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE FOCAL DEFECT SIZE AND LOCATION IN WHOLE KNEE BIOMECHANICS MODELS.

DOI: 10.1115/1.4044032 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:33:34
This study investigated how cartilage defects of different sizes and locations affect knee joint mechanics and may contribute to osteoarthritis development. The researchers used finite element computer models to simulate various femoral cartilage defects under loading conditions that mimic peak forces during walking.

The key findings showed that cartilage defects significantly increased tissue strain, with small defects causing 50% higher compressive strains and average-sized defects causing 100% higher strains compared to healthy cartilage. Importantly, defects also altered strain patterns across the joint, shifting loads to cartilage regions with reduced stiffness and affecting the healthy cartilage on the opposing tibial surface, with lateral femoral defects increasing tibial cartilage strain by 25%. These biomechanical changes resulted in 11-34% increases in peak contact stresses, providing insight into how focal cartilage damage may progress to widespread joint degeneration.

IN VIVO TIBIOFEMORAL CARTILAGE STRAIN MAPPING UNDER STATIC MECHANICAL LOADING USING CONTINUOUS GRASP-MRI.

DOI: 10.1002/jmri.26859 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:33:26
This study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of measuring cartilage strain in the human knee joint during mechanical loading using advanced MRI techniques. The researchers used continuous 3D GRASP-MRI with compressed sensing reconstruction to scan five healthy volunteers at rest, under static loading, and during recovery, then calculated cartilage deformation and strain using optical flow algorithms. The results showed that cartilage displacement ranged from -674 to +727 micrometers during loading, with corresponding strains of -7.0% to +5.4%, which partially recovered after load removal. This proof-of-concept study demonstrates that non-invasive MRI-based strain mapping of knee cartilage is feasible and could potentially be developed as a clinical tool for assessing joint health and pathology.

EFFECTS OF A KNEE VALGUS UNLOADER BRACE ON MEDIAL FEMORAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFORMATION FOLLOWING WALKING IN VARUS-ALIGNED INDIVIDUALS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.knee.2019.06.014 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:33:20
This study investigated whether a knee valgus unloader brace could reduce medial femoral cartilage deformation during walking in people with varus-aligned knees. Twenty-four healthy participants completed 5,000-step walking protocols both with and without the brace, while researchers used ultrasound imaging to measure changes in medial cartilage cross-sectional area before and after walking. Overall, the brace did not significantly reduce cartilage deformation across all participants (2.77% vs 3.15% compression). However, in individuals who normally experienced substantial cartilage deformation during walking (above a measurable threshold), the brace provided meaningful protection by reducing deformation from 6.34% to 2.94%, suggesting it may be beneficial for certain varus-aligned individuals at higher risk of cartilage loading.

CHONDROCYTE VIABILITY IS LOST DURING HIGH-RATE IMPACT LOADING BY TRANSFER OF AMPLIFIED STRAIN, BUT NOT STRESS, TO PERICELLULAR AND CELLULAR REGIONS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2019.07.018 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:33:15
This study investigated how high-speed mechanical impact causes cartilage cell death that leads to post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The researchers used laboratory cartilage samples subjected to fast (80%/s) versus slow (0.1%/s) indentation loading, then measured cell viability and tissue properties using atomic force microscopy and MRI, combined with computational modeling to analyze strain and stress patterns around cells.

The key finding was that rapid impact loading caused significantly more chondrocyte death compared to slow loading, and this cell death occurred immediately at the time of impact rather than developing over days. The computational analysis revealed that cell death patterns closely matched areas of high tensile and shear strain (tissue deformation) but not high stress (force), suggesting that excessive tissue stretching and distortion - rather than compression forces - kills the cells.

These results indicate that strain amplification in the cellular and pericellular regions during high-rate loading may represent the critical mechanical trigger that initiates cartilage degeneration in post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

NA

DOI: 10.1177/1947603519876353 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:33:06
This study aimed to develop a controlled drop-weight impact testing model using goat ankle joints to simulate traumatic injury and understand how it leads to post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). The researchers subjected fresh-frozen goat tibiotalar joints to controlled axial impacts (10.5 kg dropped from 0.3 m height) and then evaluated damage using high-resolution micro-CT imaging and mechanical testing. Surprisingly, the impacts caused no visible structural damage to cartilage or bone at either macro- or microscopic levels, and contrast-enhanced imaging showed no changes in cartilage composition. However, mechanical testing revealed altered joint biomechanics with increased energy loss (hysteresis), suggesting "invisible injuries" that could potentially lead to PTOA despite the absence of detectable structural damage.

THE TIME COURSE AND MECHANISMS OF CHANGE IN BIOMARKERS OF JOINT METABOLISM IN RESPONSE TO ACUTE EXERCISE AND CHRONIC TRAINING IN PHYSIOLOGIC AND PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS.

DOI: 10.1007/s00421-019-04232-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:32:58
This review aimed to evaluate how blood biomarkers can help us understand the effects of both single exercise sessions and long-term training on joint health in healthy people and those with joint diseases. The authors conducted a comprehensive literature search to identify biomarkers related to cartilage, bone, synovium, synovial fluid, and inflammation that have been used in exercise studies. The main finding was that most research has focused on cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) in healthy young adults, showing that acute exercise temporarily increases blood COMP levels (indicating cartilage activity) primarily based on exercise duration, but this increase doesn't appear to cause lasting joint damage or lead to osteoarthritis. The authors concluded that while promising biomarkers exist for monitoring joint responses to exercise, the field needs better standardization of methods and clearer definitions of normal versus harmful biomarker responses to advance our understanding.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI) STUDIES OF KNEE JOINT UNDER MECHANICAL LOADING: REVIEW.

DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2019.09.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:32:52
This review examines MRI studies that investigate knee joints under mechanical loading to improve early detection of osteoarthritis (OA). The authors systematically reviewed literature on MRI-based investigations of mechanically loaded knee joints, focusing on the MRI measures used, MRI-compatible loading devices, and technical challenges with clinical MRI sequences. The key finding is that standard MRI performed on unloaded joints may miss early-stage OA because degenerative changes in tissue mechanical properties often occur before detectable structural changes appear on conventional imaging. The review highlights that applying mechanical loads during MRI can reveal abnormal tissue deformation patterns that indicate early joint dysfunction, potentially enabling earlier OA diagnosis and intervention.

NANOHYDROXYAPATITE REINFORCED CHITOSAN COMPOSITE HYDROGEL WITH TUNABLE MECHANICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES FOR CARTILAGE REGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52042-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:32:46
This study aimed to develop and optimize chitosan-based composite hydrogels reinforced with hydroxyapatite nanorods for cartilage regeneration applications. The researchers systematically characterized the hydrogels using physical, chemical, mechanical, and biological testing methods while varying the concentration of hydroxyapatite nanorods to find the optimal formulation. The key findings showed that the optimized composite hydrogel achieved clinically relevant mechanical properties, including a compression strength of 1.62 MPa with 32% deformation and a storage modulus of nearly 10 kPa, along with self-recovery and fatigue resistance under cyclic loading. Additionally, the composite demonstrated excellent antimicrobial activity against common pathogens and good biocompatibility with mouse fibroblasts, suggesting strong potential for cartilage tissue engineering applications.

ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT TRANSECTION OF RABBITS ALTERS COMPOSITION, STRUCTURE AND BIOMECHANICS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND CHONDROCYTE DEFORMATION 2 WEEKS POST-SURGERY IN A SITE-SPECIFIC MANNER.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2019.109450 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:32:41
This study investigated early cartilage changes just 2 weeks after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury to identify potential targets for early intervention before osteoarthritis develops. The researchers surgically cut the ACL in rabbit knees and analyzed cartilage from different joint locations, measuring tissue stiffness, cell behavior under loading, chemical composition (fixed charge density), and collagen fiber organization. The main finding was that ACL injury caused rapid loss of fixed charge density (important for cartilage function) across multiple joint sites within just 2 weeks, along with reduced cartilage stiffness in the femoral condyles and altered cell mechanics in the lateral femoral condyle and kneecap. These results demonstrate that significant cartilage deterioration begins much earlier than previously known after ACL injury, particularly affecting the femoral condyles, which could inform timing of therapeutic interventions.

ASSESSING STEP COUNT-DEPENDENT CHANGES IN FEMORAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE USING ULTRASOUND.

DOI: 10.1002/jum.15180 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:32:34
This study examined how walking different numbers of steps affects femoral cartilage thickness measured by ultrasound. Forty-one healthy young adults underwent ultrasound imaging of their knee cartilage after resting for 45 minutes, then again after walking 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, and 5000 steps on a treadmill at their preferred speed. The researchers found that cartilage cross-sectional area increased significantly after 2000, 4000, and 5000 steps, but decreased significantly after 3000 steps compared to baseline. These findings suggest that cartilage responds to walking in a step-count dependent manner, with both compression and swelling occurring at different walking volumes.

NA

DOI: 10.1177/1535370219892601 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:32:29
This study investigated how three mechanically-activated ion channels (TRPV4, PIEZO1, and PIEZO2) contribute to chondrocyte responses to different intensities of mechanical stress. The researchers used siRNA to knock down each channel in cultured primary chondrocytes, then applied cyclic tensile strains ranging from 3% to 18% for 8 hours and measured intracellular calcium responses using live cell imaging. The findings revealed that all three channels are essential for stretch-induced calcium signaling in chondrocytes, but they have distinct roles depending on strain intensity: TRPV4 primarily mediates responses to physiological levels of strain (3% and 8%), while PIEZO2 is mainly responsible for responses to injurious strain levels (18%). These results suggest that chondrocytes use different mechanosensitive ion channels to distinguish between normal and potentially damaging mechanical loads, with PIEZO2 representing a potential therapeutic target for treating cartilage diseases caused by repetitive mechanical injury.

LOCAL STRAIN DISTRIBUTION AND INCREASED INTRACELLULAR CA2+ SIGNALING IN BOVINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPOSED TO COMPRESSIVE STRAIN.

DOI: 10.1115/1.4045807 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:32:23
This study investigated how 10% compressive strain (mimicking normal joint loading) affects local tissue deformation and calcium signaling in chondrocytes across different layers of bovine articular cartilage. The researchers measured layer-specific strain distribution and used fluorescent calcium indicators (Fluo-3) to track intracellular calcium responses in chondrocytes from surface to deep layers during compression. The results showed that while the surface layer experienced the largest mechanical strain, the deep layer chondrocytes paradoxically exhibited the most prominent calcium signaling responses. These findings suggest that chondrocyte calcium signaling under physiological loading is not simply determined by local mechanical deformation, indicating more complex mechanotransduction mechanisms within cartilage layers.

A MULTISCALE FRAMEWORK FOR EVALUATING THREE-DIMENSIONAL CELL MECHANICS IN FIBRIL-REINFORCED POROELASTIC TISSUES WITH ANATOMICAL CELL DISTRIBUTION - ANALYSIS OF CHONDROCYTE DEFORMATION BEHAVIOR IN MECHANICALLY LOADED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.109648 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:32:17
This study aimed to develop a computational framework for analyzing how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) deform when cartilage is mechanically loaded, addressing limitations in current imaging methods that cannot capture rapid cell deformations during daily activities. The researchers created three-dimensional multiscale models incorporating realistic anatomical cell distributions and tissue structure, using fibril-reinforced poroelastic material models with and without swelling properties, and validated their predictions against experimental data from loaded rabbit knee cartilage. The study found that cells experienced significantly different deformations depending on their location within the cartilage, with the swelling model (FRPES) providing more accurate predictions compared to experimental results than the non-swelling model. The findings highlight that cell deformation is influenced by local variations in tissue properties and structure, emphasizing the importance of considering multiple cells and their anatomical positions when studying cartilage biomechanics.

IS THE IMMEDIATE EFFECT OF MARATHON RUNNING ON NOVICE RUNNERS' KNEE JOINTS SUSTAINED WITHIN 6 MONTHS AFTER THE RUN? A FOLLOW-UP 3.0 T MRI STUDY.

DOI: 10.1007/s00256-020-03391-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:32:10
This study investigated whether changes in knee joints observed immediately after a first marathon in novice runners persisted at 6 months post-race using 3.0 Tesla MRI. The researchers followed 44 asymptomatic first-time marathoners (37 who completed the race, 7 who dropped out during training) with MRI scans at three time points: 6 months before, 2 weeks after, and 6 months after the London Marathon 2017, using validated scoring systems to assess knee structures. The study found that improvements in bone marrow lesions and cartilage damage observed 2 weeks post-marathon were sustained at 6 months, with additional improvements appearing over time and signs that marathon-induced changes were reversible. Overall, novice marathon runners showed sustained improvement in bone marrow and cartilage condition for at least 6 months after completing their first marathon.

INSTABILITY AND EXCESSIVE MECHANICAL LOADING MEDIATE SUBCHONDRAL BONE CHANGES TO INDUCE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.21037/atm.2020.02.103 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:32:04
This study investigated how different types of mechanical stress affect subchondral bone changes that lead to osteoarthritis (OA) development in both affected and unaffected knees. Researchers used anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) in the left knee of mice to create joint instability, then analyzed both knees over 1, 3, and 6 months using micro-CT imaging, bone metabolism markers, behavioral tests, and molecular analysis.

The key findings revealed that OA develops through distinct mechanisms in each knee: the unstable (injured) knee showed rapid cartilage destruction with initial bone density loss followed by partial recovery, while the compensating (uninjured) knee developed OA more gradually through progressive bone thickening (sclerosis). The study demonstrates that joint instability leads to OA through bone weakening, whereas excessive mechanical loading from compensation causes OA through bone hardening and densification.

VISCO-ELASTIC BEHAVIOR OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER APPLIED MAGNETIC FIELD AND STRAIN-DEPENDENT PERMEABILITY.

DOI: 10.1080/10255842.2020.1744134 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:31:57
This study investigated how articular cartilage behaves mechanically when exposed to magnetic fields, with particular focus on how permeability changes with deformation. The researchers developed a theoretical model treating cartilage as a fiber-reinforced solid matrix filled with electrically conducting fluid, using continuum mixture theory to derive governing equations that account for visco-elastic behavior and strain-dependent permeability. They solved the resulting nonlinear coupled differential equations numerically using the method of lines when permeability varied with strain, and provided exact solutions for constant permeability cases. The results demonstrated how magnetic fields (through Lorentz forces) and varying permeability affect both solid deformation and fluid pressure within cartilage during compression loading.

FINITE DEFORMATION ELASTOGRAPHY OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND BIOMATERIALS BASED ON IMAGING AND TOPOLOGY OPTIMIZATION.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64723-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:31:52
This study aimed to develop a new elastography technique capable of measuring stiffness variations in hard tissues like cartilage, overcoming limitations of conventional methods that work poorly in stiff musculoskeletal tissues. The researchers used magnetic resonance imaging to track large, low-frequency deformations combined with an iterative topology optimization algorithm to map tissue stiffness patterns. They successfully reconstructed 2D and 3D stiffness distributions in synthetic materials and, for the first time, mapped stiffness in porcine and sheep cartilage within intact joints, revealing elevated stiffness in the superficial zone linked to collagen compaction and water loss during loading. This technique offers potential as a non-destructive clinical tool for early diagnosis and monitoring of cartilage diseases like osteoarthritis.

ACTIVATION OF NOTCH1 BY SHEAR FORCE ELICITS IMMEDIATE CYTOKINE EXPRESSION IN HUMAN CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144958 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:31:46
This study investigated how mechanical forces trigger inflammation in cartilage cells, which is a key process in osteoarthritis development. The researchers used an in vitro hydraulic shear force system to apply mechanical stress to human chondrocytes and measured gene expression changes within two hours of treatment. They found that shear force rapidly activated multiple inflammatory cytokines (including interleukin 8 and interferon β) and immune regulators, and identified that this response was mediated through activation of the Notch1 signaling pathway. The results suggest that Notch1 acts as a mechanical force sensor in chondrocytes, providing new insights into how joint overloading leads to cartilage inflammation and potentially identifying new therapeutic targets for osteoarthritis.

PROGRESSIVE DEFORMATION-INDUCED DEGRADATION OF KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.109995 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:31:40
This study investigated how excessive mechanical loading causes progressive degradation of human knee cartilage and its connection to osteoarthritis development. The researchers conducted deformation experiments on cartilage samples and developed a 3D mathematical model to predict tissue damage and stiffness loss based on the degree of mechanical strain. The key findings showed that cartilage can recover from tensile strains up to 15% without permanent damage, but higher deformations cause irreversible degradation, while the tissue can withstand higher thresholds for compression and shear forces (25-30%). The authors concluded that their model effectively predicts cartilage degradation under excessive loading and can help connect mechanical damage to osteoarthritis progression.

SEX-SPECIFIC ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN CARTILAGE STRUCTURE AND METABOLISM AT REST AND ACUTELY FOLLOWING WALKING AND DROP-LANDING.

DOI: 10.1177/1947603520959386 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:31:35
This study investigated sex-specific relationships between cartilage structure and metabolism in healthy adults, both at rest and after physical loading activities. The researchers used ultrasound to measure femoral cartilage thickness and blood tests to assess cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) levels in 20 males and 20 females before and after walking and drop-landing exercises. The key finding was that in females only, thinner cartilage was significantly associated with higher resting COMP concentrations (a marker of cartilage breakdown), while no such relationships were observed in males or in the acute responses to exercise in either sex. These results suggest that the biological relationships governing cartilage health differ between men and women, highlighting the importance of sex-specific approaches in cartilage research and clinical assessment.

CHONDROCYTE DEFORMATIONS UNDER MILD DYNAMIC LOADING CONDITIONS.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-020-02615-9 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:31:29
This study aimed to develop an experimental technique to measure how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) deform in real-time under dynamic compression, which better mimics the loading conditions that cartilage experiences during daily joint movement. The researchers used real-time imaging to track chondrocyte shape changes at 10%, 15%, and 20% compression levels during controlled loading at 0.2% strain per second, followed by a stress-relaxation phase.

The key finding was that chondrocyte deformations under dynamic loading were non-linear and occurred in two distinct phases: early compression (up to ~10% strain) caused significant cell volume loss, while later compression (>10% strain) caused shape changes but minimal further volume loss. During the stress-relaxation phase, the cartilage tissue continued to lose force for 5 minutes, but the chondrocyte shape and volume stabilized within the first minute, suggesting different mechanical responses between the cells and surrounding tissue matrix.

LAYER DEPENDENCE IN STRAIN DISTRIBUTION AND CHONDROCYTE DAMAGE IN PORCINE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPOSED TO EXCESSIVE COMPRESSIVE STRESS LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2020.104088 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:31:23
This study investigated how excessive compressive stress affects cartilage cell death at different depths within articular cartilage, which is relevant to understanding osteoarthritis development. The researchers developed a real-time microscopy system to observe porcine cartilage samples under injurious compression (18 MPa) at both low (3.5%/s) and high (35%/s) strain rates, measuring local tissue deformation during loading and cell death after short-term culture. The key findings showed that cell death patterns varied by cartilage depth and strain rate: high strain rates caused more cell death in the surface layer, while low strain rates concentrated cell death in the middle layer, with both patterns correlating with local strain rate distributions. When the surface layer was removed, the depth-dependent differences in both cell death and strain distribution disappeared, indicating that the surface layer plays a crucial role in protecting deeper cartilage layers from mechanical damage.

TRANSIENT STIFFENING OF CARTILAGE DURING JOINT ARTICULATION: A MICROINDENTATION STUDY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2020.104113 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:31:17
This study investigated how articular cartilage stiffness changes in response to joint loading that simulates human walking patterns. The researchers used a bioreactor system to apply compression and shear forces to cartilage samples, then measured surface stiffness using microindentation immediately after loading and at intervals up to 3 hours. They found that cartilage surface stiffness increased immediately after loading but returned to baseline levels within 3 hours, with cartilage-on-cartilage contact producing greater stiffening than metal counterfaces. Importantly, this stiffening response was unique to the superficial zone of cartilage, suggesting this layer has adaptive load-bearing properties that may be compromised in osteoarthritis when the superficial zone deteriorates.

NA

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.582055 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:31:11
This study investigated how meniscal degeneration affects the tissue's mechanical response to loading in different directions and anatomical regions. The researchers used high-resolution MRI with a custom loading device to image 12 mildly and 12 severely degenerated knee joints under progressive compression (25%, 50%, and 100% body weight), then applied advanced image registration techniques and finite element modeling to measure three-dimensional strain patterns in the menisci and their root attachments. The key finding was that severely degenerated menisci showed significantly greater axial compressive strain (7.3%) compared to mildly degenerated menisci (3.1%) at full body weight loading, while circumferential and radial strains remained similar between groups. These results suggest that meniscal degeneration primarily compromises the tissue's ability to resist compression while preserving its tensile properties, which has important implications for understanding how damaged menisci alter load transmission and contribute to osteoarthritis progression.

HIGH FREQUENCY ULTRASOUND ASSESSES TRANSIENT CHANGES IN CARTILAGE UNDER OSMOTIC LOADING.

DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2020281 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:31:05
This study aimed to use high-frequency ultrasound to non-invasively measure cartilage changes during osmotic loading and develop a theoretical model to predict these responses. The researchers used ultrasound to track changes in cartilage thickness and sound speed in fresh and enzyme-treated sheep knee samples when exposed to different salt concentrations, then compared results with finite element simulations based on a diffusion model. The proposed diffusion model successfully described the transient swelling and shrinking behavior of cartilage during osmotic loading. This approach demonstrates that ultrasound combined with osmotic testing can quantify cartilage mechanical properties and the time-dependent responses governed by the tissue's charged proteoglycans.

TRAUMATIC JOINT INJURY INDUCES ACUTE CATABOLIC BONE TURNOVER CONCURRENT WITH ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DAMAGE IN A RAT MODEL OF POSTTRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.24903 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:30:59
This study investigated how knee joint injury affects bone remodeling in the early stages following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture using a rat model. Researchers used female Lewis rats with induced ACL rupture and employed advanced imaging techniques including micro-CT and near-infrared molecular imaging to track bone changes over 14 days, along with histological analysis to assess cartilage damage. The key findings showed that ACL injury immediately triggered harmful bone remodeling characterized by reduced bone formation (~15-20% decrease) and increased bone breakdown (~32% increase), with these changes occurring differently across knee compartments - the medial side showed bone thinning while the lateral side gained bone thickness. By 14 days post-injury, rats also developed mild-to-moderate cartilage damage, demonstrating that bone and cartilage changes occur simultaneously in the early stages of post-traumatic osteoarthritis development.

EFFECTS OF EXERCISE MODE IN KNEE CARTILAGE THICKNESS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2020.05.006 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:30:53
This study aimed to compare how different exercise types affect knee cartilage thickness immediately after exercise. The researchers used a randomized crossover design with 14 healthy participants, measuring cartilage thickness via ultrasound before, immediately after, and up to 10 minutes following four different exercise protocols: squats, functional exercises (sit-to-stand, lunges, step-ups), cycling, and running. The key finding was that short-duration exercises (squats and functional exercises) did not change cartilage thickness, while longer-duration activities (cycling and running) caused cartilage to thicken 5 minutes post-exercise. The results suggest that knee cartilage can maintain its structural properties during brief, high-load exercises but shows adaptive changes following moderate-duration endurance activities.

A VCP MODULATOR, KUS121, AS A PROMISING THERAPEUTIC AGENT FOR POST-TRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77735-2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:30:47
This study investigated whether KUS121, a valosin-containing protein modulator, could prevent post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) by protecting cartilage cells from death after joint injury. The researchers tested KUS121 using a rat model of PTOA with cyclic loading and human cartilage cells exposed to stress-inducing agents in laboratory cultures. KUS121 treatment significantly improved cartilage damage scores and reduced cartilage volume loss in rats, while also decreasing cell death markers and cartilage-degrading enzymes. The protective effects appear to work by reducing excessive endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in cartilage cells, suggesting KUS121 could be a promising new treatment to prevent PTOA development after joint injuries.

NA

DOI: 10.1177/1947603520976771 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:30:42
This study investigated how ultrashort echo time MRI with magnetization transfer modeling (UTE-MT) responds to mechanical loading in knee cartilage and meniscus tissue. Researchers scanned 14 cadaveric knee joints from young and elderly donors using UTE-MT sequences under three loading conditions (300N, 500N, and unloaded) on a 3-Tesla MRI scanner, measuring macromolecular proton fraction (MMF) as the primary outcome. In young donors, MMF significantly increased with higher loading (300N to 500N) in the meniscus and cartilage covered by meniscus, then decreased after unloading, while elderly donors showed no significant loading-related changes. These findings suggest that UTE-MT imaging combined with mechanical loading could help differentiate between healthy and age-related degenerative changes in knee joints, with younger tissue showing more uniform and responsive deformation patterns compared to elderly tissue.

A NEW TECHNIQUE TO EVALUATE THE IMPACT OF RUNNING ON KNEE CARTILAGE DEFORMATION BY REGION.

DOI: 10.1007/s10334-020-00896-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:30:35
This study aimed to develop a new statistical parametric mapping (SPM) technique to analyze regional knee cartilage deformation patterns after running, examine sex-based thickness differences, and explore how sex influences cartilage response to loading. Thirty asymptomatic participants (15 males, 15 females) underwent MRI scanning before and after 15 minutes of treadmill running, with cartilage from four knee compartments segmented and analyzed using SPM to create detailed thickness maps. Running caused cartilage deformation in all four compartments, with the lateral tibia showing the largest area of change, while females consistently had thinner cartilage than males across all compartments. The SPM technique successfully identified detailed spatial patterns of cartilage changes that would be missed by traditional mean thickness measurements, revealing small sex-specific deformation patterns in the lateral tibia.

ACTIVATION OF TRPV4 BY MECHANICAL, OSMOTIC OR PHARMACEUTICAL STIMULATION IS ANTI-INFLAMMATORY BLOCKING IL-1Β MEDIATED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE MATRIX DESTRUCTION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2020.08.002 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:30:29
This study investigated whether the TRPV4 ion channel mediates the anti-inflammatory effects of mechanical loading on cartilage. The researchers used chondrocyte cultures and cartilage explants treated with TRPV4 inhibitors or activators, along with mechanical stretching, osmotic loading, and inflammatory stimulation with IL-1β. They found that activating TRPV4 through mechanical forces, osmotic changes, or pharmaceutical agents consistently blocked IL-1β-induced inflammation and prevented cartilage breakdown by reducing nitric oxide and prostaglandin release while preserving tissue mechanical properties. The mechanism involves TRPV4 regulation of cellular structures called primary cilia through tubulin modifications, suggesting TRPV4 could be a promising therapeutic target for treating cartilage inflammation and degradation.

MOLECULAR MECHANISMS OF MECHANICAL LOAD-INDUCED OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1007/s00264-021-04938-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:30:23
This review aimed to identify and summarize the molecular mechanisms by which mechanical loading contributes to osteoarthritis development and progression. The authors conducted a comprehensive literature search of PubMed and EMBASE databases from January 2015 to October 2020, focusing on studies examining osteoarthritis, mechanical load, and underlying mechanisms. The review found that abnormal mechanical loading activates several key inflammatory and stress pathways, including interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, nuclear factor kappa-B, WNT, transforming growth factor-β, microRNAs, and oxidative stress pathways, which work through specific receptors in cartilage such as integrins and ion channels. These mechanically-activated pathways ultimately lead to cartilage cell death (chondrocyte apoptosis) and breakdown of the cartilage matrix, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for preventing or treating osteoarthritis.

NA

DOI: 10.1002/jor.24994 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:30:18
This study aimed to characterize the short-term responses of healthy knee cartilage to running-induced mechanical loading using quantitative MRI. Eleven healthy female recreational runners and four controls underwent 3T MRI scans with T₂ relaxation time measurements before and after 40 minutes of over-ground running or rest, with follow-up scans at 5-minute intervals for 60 minutes using bilateral imaging and registration techniques. The study found immediate decreases in T₂ relaxation times of 2.9-3.6% in superficial cartilage across the femur, tibia, and patella following running, with the most pronounced and persistent changes (5.3% decrease lasting at least 60 minutes) occurring in the medial posterior region of superficial femoral cartilage. These findings demonstrate that running produces detectable, transient changes in cartilage composition and hydration that can be measured using quantitative MRI, providing important baseline data for understanding healthy cartilage responses to exercise loading.

REGULATION OF CHONDROCYTE BIOSYNTHETIC ACTIVITY BY DYNAMIC HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE: THE ROLE OF TRP CHANNELS.

DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2020.1871475 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:30:11
This study investigated how cartilage cells (chondrocytes) sense and respond to hydrostatic pressure through specialized membrane ion channels called TRP channels. The researchers used a 3D tissue engineering model with porcine chondrocytes and applied chemical inhibitors to block specific TRP channels (TRPV1, TRPV4, TRPC3, and TRPC1) while subjecting the cells to controlled hydrostatic loading. They found that hydrostatic pressure reduced the production of sulfated glycosaminoglycans (key cartilage components) in a dose- and frequency-dependent manner, and that blocking the TRPV1 channel partially prevented this reduction. The results suggest that TRPV1 acts as a key sensor for hydrostatic pressure in cartilage cells, while TRPV4 and TRPC3 channels also play important roles in cartilage metabolism, highlighting how different ion channels work together to help cartilage cells respond to mechanical forces.

COMPRESSIVE MECHANICAL STRESS ENHANCES SUSCEPTIBILITY TO INTERLEUKIN-1 BY INCREASING INTERLEUKIN-1 RECEPTOR EXPRESSION IN 3D-CULTURED ATDC5 CELLS.

DOI: 10.1186/s12891-021-04095-x · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:30:05
This study investigated how mechanical overloading of cartilage contributes to osteoarthritis development by examining the cellular responses of cartilage-like cells to compression. The researchers applied cyclic compressive loading to 3D-cultured ATDC5 cells (a cartilage cell model) for 3 hours and measured the expression of inflammatory receptors and cartilage-degrading enzymes, while also testing the role of TRPV4 ion channels in this process.

The key findings showed that mechanical compression increased both interleukin-1 receptors (IL-1R) and ADAMTS4 (a cartilage-degrading enzyme) through the production of reactive oxygen species, making the cells more susceptible to inflammatory damage. Additionally, the TRPV4 ion channel normally helped regulate these harmful responses, but this protective mechanism appeared to be overwhelmed by excessive mechanical loading.

These results suggest that mechanical overloading creates a harmful cycle where cartilage cells become more sensitive to inflammation while simultaneously producing more cartilage-degrading enzymes, potentially explaining how joint overuse contributes to osteoarthritis progression.

REPRODUCING THE BIOMECHANICAL ENVIRONMENT OF THE CHONDROCYTE FOR CARTILAGE TISSUE ENGINEERING.

DOI: 10.1089/ten.TEB.2020.0373 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:29:57
This review examines how the biomechanical environment affects chondrocyte function and metabolism, with the objective of improving cartilage tissue engineering strategies. The authors discuss key approaches including tuning scaffold material properties, applying external cyclic loading, and using decellularized scaffolds that preserve native tissue structure to recreate the natural mechanical environment that chondrocytes experience. The main finding is that chondrocyte metabolism is critically influenced by mechanical forces transmitted through the pericellular matrix, and that replicating these biomechanical conditions can enhance biosynthetic responses and promote the development of functional cartilage tissue. The review emphasizes that successful cartilage tissue engineering requires greater attention to biomechanical and tribological properties, which are often overlooked despite their crucial role in graft maturation and long-term performance.

DEPTH AND STRAIN RATE-DEPENDENT MECHANICAL RESPONSE OF CHONDROCYTES IN RESERVE ZONE CARTILAGE SUBJECTED TO COMPRESSIVE LOADING.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-021-01457-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:29:51
This study investigated how mechanical forces affect cells in the growth plate's reserve zone, which may serve as a stem cell source and control cartilage development. The researchers used a computer model to simulate compression of bone-growth plate-bone structures at different speeds (strain rates from 0.18%/s to 200%/s), measuring cellular responses at various depths within the reserve zone.

The key findings showed that cell deformation and fluid flow around cells varied significantly depending on both the compression speed and location within the reserve zone depth. Cells near the bone interface experienced different mechanical stimuli than those in upper regions, with fluid shear stress being particularly important near the bone boundary, suggesting these mechanical signals may regulate stem cell behavior and cartilage development in the reserve zone.

AN EXPERIMENTAL SIMULATION MODEL TO ASSESS WEAR OF THE PORCINE PATELLOFEMORAL JOINT.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250077 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:29:45
This study aimed to develop and validate an experimental method for testing cartilage repair treatments in the patellofemoral (kneecap) joint before clinical use. The researchers used a 6-axis simulator to apply realistic loading and movement to porcine (pig) knee joints, comparing different surgical positioning of osteochondral grafts (cartilage transplants) in the patella.

The key finding was that grafts positioned flush with the surrounding cartilage surface performed well, causing minimal wear and damage to the opposing cartilage, similar to untreated joints. However, grafts positioned 1mm above the surface (proud) caused moderate cartilage damage on the opposing femoral surface, while steel pins caused severe damage including bone exposure. This simulator model provides a valuable tool for evaluating cartilage repair strategies under realistic joint conditions before human trials.

NA

DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2021.04.014 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:29:38
This study investigated whether a specialized MRI technique called UTE-ADIAB-T₁ρ could detect mechanical changes in knee cartilage and meniscus tissue under different loading conditions. The researchers tested eight cadaveric knee joints from young donors using a 3T MRI scanner, applying sequential loads of 0N, 300N, 500N, and then unloading back to 0N while measuring tissue response in various cartilage and meniscus regions.

The results showed that UTE-ADIAB-T₁ρ values decreased by 10-26% in all tissue regions when mechanical loads were applied, with the largest reductions occurring under 300N loading conditions. When the load was removed, the values partially recovered but did not return to baseline levels, suggesting incomplete tissue restoration, though these changes were not statistically significant.

The findings indicate that UTE-ADIAB-T₁ρ MRI can detect load-induced deformation patterns in knee tissues and may serve as a functional imaging marker for assessing cartilage and meniscus biomechanical properties.

A NOVEL IN VITRO AND IN SILICO SYSTEM FOR ANALYZING COMPLEX MECHANOBIOLOGICAL BEHAVIOR OF CHONDROCYTES IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL HYDROGEL CONSTRUCTS.

DOI: 10.1115/1.4051116 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:29:31
This study developed a novel system to investigate how cartilage cells (chondrocytes) respond to mechanical forces that mimic natural joint loading. The researchers created a computer-controlled device that applies precise combinations of compression, tension, and shear forces to chondrocytes embedded in 3D gel scaffolds, along with computational models to analyze cell deformation patterns. The system demonstrated high accuracy (1.2% error) and reproducibility, successfully applying up to 7% tensile and 15% shear strains to the constructs while maintaining cell viability. This represents one of the first systems capable of directly linking tissue-level mechanical forces to individual cell-level deformation, providing a valuable tool for understanding cartilage mechanobiology and developing tissue engineering strategies.

ACUTE TALAR CARTILAGE DEFORMATION IN THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY.

DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000002572 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:29:25
This study investigated whether ankle cartilage responds differently to loading in people with chronic ankle instability (CAI) compared to healthy individuals. The researchers used ultrasound imaging to measure changes in talar (ankle bone) cartilage thickness before and after two loading protocols - 2 minutes of single-leg standing and 60 single-leg forward hops - in 30 CAI patients and 30 healthy controls.

The key findings showed that individuals with CAI experienced significantly greater cartilage deformation (compression) than healthy controls after both standing and hopping activities, particularly in the overall ankle cartilage and the medial (inner) region. Additionally, static standing produced greater cartilage deformation than dynamic hopping across both groups, suggesting that prolonged static loading may be more mechanically demanding on ankle cartilage than brief dynamic activities.

DAILY CUMULATIVE LOAD AND BODY MASS INDEX ALTER KNEE CARTILAGE RESPONSE TO RUNNING IN WOMEN.

DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2021.05.030 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:29:19
This study investigated whether daily knee loading patterns influence how cartilage responds to acute running exercise in women. Fifteen women underwent gait analysis, wore accelerometers for a week to measure daily steps, and completed MRI scans before and after 15 minutes of treadmill running to assess changes in knee cartilage thickness, volume, and composition (T2 relaxation time). The researchers found that women who were more physically active but had lower knee joint forces during walking (or lower BMI) showed smaller changes in tibial cartilage volume after running. These findings suggest that regular physical activity may condition cartilage to better withstand acute loading, potentially providing insights into how habitual activity patterns affect cartilage health and function.

EARLY INHIBITION OF SUBCHONDRAL BONE REMODELING SLOWS LOAD-INDUCED POSTTRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS DEVELOPMENT IN MICE.

DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.4397 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:29:14
This study investigated the optimal timing for inhibiting bone remodeling to slow posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) progression after joint injury. Researchers used a mouse model where mechanical loading was applied to initiate PTOA, then treated animals with alendronate (a bone remodeling inhibitor) either immediately or with 1-2 week delays, analyzing cartilage damage, bone changes, and bone spur formation over 3-6 weeks. The results showed that immediate treatment after injury was most effective, reducing cartilage damage, slowing bone spur formation, and preserving bone structure, while delayed treatment only protected cartilage but failed to prevent bone-related changes. These findings suggest that abnormal bone remodeling in the first week after joint injury is critical for disease progression, highlighting the potential for anti-resorptive drugs as preventive rather than reactive treatments for PTOA.

THE INFLUENCE OF RUNNING ON LOWER LIMB CARTILAGE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS.

DOI: 10.1007/s40279-021-01533-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:29:07
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine how running affects lower limb cartilage structure and composition to inform clinical recommendations for runners and sports medicine practitioners. The researchers analyzed 43 prospective studies that used quantitative MRI to measure cartilage changes before and after running, examining outcomes including cartilage volume, thickness, lesions, and tissue composition markers. The key findings showed that while running causes immediate but temporary reductions in knee cartilage volume, thickness, and certain MRI relaxation times, these changes do not persist and likely reflect normal fluid movement within the cartilage. Importantly, moderate evidence suggests that running does not create new cartilage lesions, and repeated running exposure does not cause lasting structural changes, indicating that cartilage recovers well and adapts to regular running activity.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY EFFECTS OF TIBIAL AXIAL LOADING ON KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE POST TRAUMATIC INJURY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110736 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:29:01
This study investigated whether tibial axial loading (TAL) could reduce inflammation in knee cartilage following traumatic injury as a potential early intervention to prevent post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The researchers developed a custom device that applies dynamic compression to knee cartilage by combining tibial loading with continuous passive motion, then tested it on injured porcine knees using 1/4 body weight loads at 1 Hz for 30 minutes. The main finding was that TAL significantly reduced the upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) that normally occurs 8 hours after cartilage injury. These results suggest that TAL could serve as a practical early therapeutic intervention to mitigate the inflammatory cascade that leads to cartilage degeneration after joint trauma.

ARE OUTCOMES OF ACUTE MENISCUS ROOT TEAR REPAIR BETTER THAN DEBRIDEMENT OR NONOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT? A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW.

DOI: 10.1177/03635465211031250 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:28:56
This systematic review examined whether surgical repair of acute meniscus root tears produces better outcomes than debridement or nonoperative management. The researchers analyzed 11 studies of low to moderate quality comparing functional scores and radiographic progression across different treatment approaches for meniscus root tears. All treatment options improved functional scores after 12 months, but arthroscopic repair showed superior functional outcomes compared to partial meniscectomy and nonoperative management at 12-month follow-up. While radiographic osteoarthritis progression occurred in all groups, there was evidence that repair may delay this deterioration compared to other treatments, with baseline meniscal extrusion severity, limb alignment, and pre-existing degeneration being key predictors of outcomes.

ACUTE CHANGES IN KNEE CARTILAGE AND MENISCUS FOLLOWING LONG-DISTANCE RUNNING IN HABITUATE RUNNERS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW ON STUDIES USING QUANTITATIVE MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING.

DOI: 10.1007/s00256-021-03943-0 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:28:51
This systematic review examined how long-distance running immediately affects knee cartilage and meniscus in experienced runners using advanced MRI imaging techniques. The researchers searched major medical databases and identified 14 studies that used quantitative MRI to measure changes in healthy marathon runners before and after races. The main findings showed that runners experience temporary changes after long-distance running, including initial decreases in cartilage and meniscus volume, reduced T2 signals that return to normal quickly, and elevated T1ρ signals that may persist for months. The superficial and medial areas of knee cartilage and meniscus showed the greatest changes, suggesting these regions are most affected by the mechanical stress of running.

BIOMECHANICS OF THE MEDIAL MENISCUS IN THE OSTEOARTHRITIC KNEE JOINT.

DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12509 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:28:45
This study investigated how knee osteoarthritis (OA) affects the mechanical stress and deformation patterns in the medial meniscus. The researchers used finite element modeling to simulate the stance phase of walking, comparing an intact knee model (based on MRI scans from a healthy volunteer) with an OA model that incorporated reduced cartilage thickness and altered material properties of cartilage and menisci. The key findings showed that OA significantly increased mechanical stress in the meniscus, with hoop stress rising by 83% in the posterior horn and von Mises stress reaching 26.8 MPa in the posterior meniscus body, along with 57% greater medial translation of the meniscus. These increased stress levels, particularly the elevated hoop stresses at the inner edge of the posterior meniscus, suggest that knee OA creates mechanical conditions that may predispose the medial meniscus to radial tears.

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CRACKED ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER UNIAXIAL CREEP AND CYCLIC TENSILE LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2022.110988 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:28:39
This study investigated how pre-existing cracks affect the mechanical behavior of articular cartilage under tensile loading conditions. The researchers used uniaxial creep testing and cyclic tensile loading to examine cracked cartilage samples, analyzing crack propagation, strain responses, and structural changes at the fibril level. Key findings showed that cracked cartilage exhibited greater creep strain than intact cartilage, with fracture occurring in two distinct phases (crack-tip blunting followed by crack growth), and that cyclic loading caused irreversible damage to the collagen fibril network without obvious crack propagation. The results suggest that cartilage cracks significantly compromise mechanical integrity through increased deformation and progressive structural damage, which may contribute to osteoarthritis development.

EFFECT OF ARTICULAR SURFACE COMPRESSION ON CARTILAGE EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX DEFORMATION.

DOI: 10.1115/1.4054108 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:28:34
This study investigated how the superficial zone (SZ) of articular cartilage controls fluid flow and tissue deformation during joint loading. The researchers used bovine cartilage plugs and applied static (88 kPa) or cyclic (0-125 kPa) compression for five minutes, comparing responses before and after removing the top 10% of cartilage (SZ), with either covered or uncovered surface conditions during recovery. Key findings showed that static loading produced greater deformation than cyclic loading, uncovering the cartilage surface allowed faster recovery, and removing the SZ increased both static and cyclic deformation while enlarging the cyclic strain envelope. The results demonstrate that an intact superficial zone is essential for normal cartilage function by regulating fluid movement and controlling tissue deformation during loading and recovery cycles.

NA

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.837554 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:28:28
This biomechanical study investigated whether the meniscus functions as a shock absorber in the knee joint using 14 porcine knee specimens tested under two loading conditions: impact loading (drop tower) and cyclic sinusoidal loading at frequencies of 0.1-5 Hz. Researchers compared shock absorption capacity (measured as loss factor) across four meniscal states: intact, medial posterior root avulsion, medial meniscectomy, and total meniscectomy. The results demonstrated that intact menisci provided the highest shock absorption (loss factor 0.10-0.15), while any meniscal damage or removal significantly reduced damping ability by 18-68% depending on the extent of tissue loss. These findings confirm that menisci contribute substantially to knee joint shock absorption during both impact and repetitive loading, suggesting that patients returning to high-impact sports after meniscectomy may face increased risk of cartilage damage due to reduced joint protection.

EFFECTS OF GAIT TRAINING WITH AUDITORY BIOFEEDBACK ON BIOMECHANICS AND TALAR CARTILAGE CHARACTERISTICS IN INDIVIDUALS WITH CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL.

DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2022.03.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:28:20
This randomized controlled trial investigated whether gait training with auditory biofeedback could improve walking patterns and cartilage health in people with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Eighteen participants with CAI were assigned to either an auditory biofeedback group (using a lateral foot pressure sensor that made noise when excessive pressure was applied) or a control group, with both groups completing 8 sessions of 30-minute treadmill walking while researchers measured foot pressure patterns and ankle cartilage characteristics using ultrasound. The auditory biofeedback group successfully reduced lateral foot pressure and force while shifting their center of pressure more toward the inside of the foot, with these improvements maintained at 1-week follow-up, whereas the control group showed no changes. However, neither group demonstrated changes in ankle cartilage thickness or quality, suggesting that while auditory biofeedback effectively modifies harmful walking patterns in CAI patients, longer intervention periods may be needed to observe cartilage benefits.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DIFFERENT SERUM CARTILAGE BIOMARKERS IN THE ACUTE RESPONSE TO RUNNING AND JUMPING IN HEALTHY MALE INDIVIDUALS.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10310-z · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:28:14
This study investigated how different types of exercise affect blood markers that reflect cartilage metabolism in healthy men. Fifteen male volunteers completed two 30-minute exercise sessions (reactive jumping and treadmill running) while researchers measured seven serum biomarkers related to cartilage breakdown and repair before and after each activity. All biomarkers showed acute responses to both exercises, but the responses differed between running and jumping - notably, MMP-3 increased much more after running (+78%) than jumping (+14%), while some markers (resistin and COLL2-1 NO) responded significantly to only one exercise type. The findings suggest that different physical activities trigger distinct patterns of cartilage metabolism, and the relationships between these biomarkers may reflect the complex biological processes involved in maintaining cartilage health.

EXERCISE-INDUCED CHANGES IN FEMORAL CARTILAGE THICKNESS IN PATIENTS WITH PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN.

DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0602.21 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:28:08
This crossover study examined whether a single session of rehabilitative exercises affects femoral cartilage structure in patients with patellofemoral pain (PFP). Twelve PFP patients and 12 healthy controls completed three 30-minute exercise sessions (treadmill running, strengthening, and plyometrics), with femoral cartilage assessed using ultrasound imaging at 140° knee flexion to measure cartilage cross-sectional area and echo intensity. The study found no significant differences in cartilage deformation between PFP patients and healthy participants following any exercise type, suggesting that rehabilitative exercises do not acutely alter cartilage structure. However, changes in lateral femoral cartilage echo intensity correlated with patient-reported outcome scores (KOOS and AKPS), indicating these clinical questionnaires may serve as useful indicators of cartilage health in PFP patients.

PLANTAR PRESSURE PROFILE DURING WALKING IS ASSOCIATED WITH TALAR CARTILAGE CHARACTERISTICS IN INDIVIDUALS WITH CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2022.105656 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:28:02
This study examined the relationship between walking patterns and ankle cartilage health in 25 adults with chronic ankle instability. Researchers used ultrasound to measure talar cartilage thickness and quality before and after a 30-minute walk, while simultaneously recording plantar pressure patterns throughout the foot during walking. The key finding was that abnormal pressure distribution during walking—specifically increased lateral forefoot pressure and altered center of pressure during early stance—was associated with greater cartilage deformation in specific regions of the ankle joint. These results suggest that altered walking mechanics in people with chronic ankle instability may contribute to cartilage stress patterns that could potentially increase osteoarthritis risk over time.

UROCORTIN-1 IS CHONDROPROTECTIVE IN RESPONSE TO ACUTE CARTILAGE INJURY VIA MODULATION OF PIEZO1.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095119 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:27:57
This study investigated whether urocortin-1 (UCN) can protect cartilage cells from death following traumatic injury that leads to post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). The researchers used a drop tower model to simulate high-impact cartilage injury in tissue samples, then tested UCN's protective effects using various receptor-specific drugs to identify the underlying mechanisms. They found that UCN significantly protects cartilage cells from impact-induced death by blocking calcium influx through the PIEZO1 ion channel, with this protection occurring primarily through the CRF-R1 receptor pathway. Importantly, UCN provided protection whether given before or after the traumatic impact, suggesting it could serve as a disease-modifying drug to prevent PTOA development following joint injuries.

BIOMECHANICAL EFFECTS OF CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY ON THE TALAR CARTILAGE MATRIX: THE VALUE OF T1Ρ RELAXATION MAPPING WITHOUT AND WITH MECHANICAL LOADING.

DOI: 10.1002/jmri.28267 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:27:51
This study investigated whether T1ρ MRI relaxation mapping can detect early cartilage damage in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI), both with and without mechanical loading. Researchers used 3T MRI to measure T1ρ relaxation times in talar cartilage of 9 CAI patients and 18 healthy controls, comparing scans taken without loading and with 500N axial loading applied to the ankle. The key finding was that CAI patients showed significantly higher T1ρ values in the medial compartment compared to healthy controls during unloaded scans, suggesting early cartilage degeneration. However, while mechanical loading reduced T1ρ values in both groups, the loading response did not effectively distinguish between CAI patients and controls, indicating that standard T1ρ mapping without loading may be more useful for detecting CAI-related cartilage changes.

INTRA-ARTICULAR INJECTION OF FLAVOPIRIDOL-LOADED MICROPARTICLES FOR TREATMENT OF POST-TRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.06.042 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:27:45
This study aimed to develop a sustained drug delivery system for treating post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) by encapsulating flavopiridol, a cyclin-dependent kinase 9 inhibitor, in biodegradable microparticles to overcome the problem of rapid drug clearance from joints.

The researchers formulated flavopiridol-loaded polylactide-co-glycolide microparticles (~15 μm diameter) and characterized their properties, stability, and drug release profile, then tested them via intra-articular injection in a rat knee injury model of PTOA.

The microparticles demonstrated significantly improved joint retention compared to free drug, maintained drug activity after encapsulation, and showed no cytotoxicity. Treatment with flavopiridol microparticles reduced joint inflammation (measured by matrix metalloprotease activity) at 3 days post-injury and decreased PTOA severity at 28 days compared to controls, suggesting this biomaterial platform offers a promising approach for sustained intra-articular drug delivery in PTOA treatment.

MODELING EARLY CHANGES ASSOCIATED WITH CARTILAGE TRAUMA USING HUMAN-CELL-LADEN HYDROGEL CARTILAGE MODELS.

DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03022-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:27:38
This study aimed to develop a human cell-based laboratory model to better understand how traumatic joint injuries lead to post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA), with the goal of improving drug development for osteoarthritis treatment.

The researchers created artificial cartilage constructs by embedding human bone marrow stem cells in specialized hydrogels, allowing them to develop into cartilage-like tissue over 28 days, then subjected these constructs to mechanical trauma (30% compression strain) to simulate joint injury.

The traumatic impact caused immediate cell death and triggered acute changes resembling early PTOA: decreased production of healthy cartilage proteins (collagen II, aggrecan), increased expression of tissue-degrading enzymes (MMP13), elevated inflammatory markers (COX2), temporary loss of cartilage matrix, and reduced tissue stiffness within 24 hours, with some recovery by 7 days.

These trauma-induced changes differed significantly from the progressive deterioration seen with continuous inflammatory treatment (IL-1β), suggesting that this new human cell-based impact model may provide a more accurate representation of PTOA development than traditional inflammatory models used in research.

TALAR-CARTILAGE DEFORMATION AND SPATIOTEMPORAL GAIT PATTERNS IN INDIVIDUALS WITH AND THOSE WITHOUT CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY.

DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-733-20 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:27:30
This case-control study aimed to compare talar cartilage deformation between individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) and healthy controls, and to examine relationships between cartilage deformation and walking gait patterns. The researchers used ultrasonography to measure cartilage thickness changes before and after a standardized loading protocol (squats, balance tasks, and jumping) in 24 CAI participants and 24 controls, while also assessing spatiotemporal gait parameters using an electronic walkway. The key finding was that individuals with CAI showed significantly greater talar cartilage deformation following the exercise protocol compared to controls, even after controlling for body mass index. However, no significant associations were found between the amount of cartilage deformation and spatiotemporal gait parameters in either group.

ULTRASOUND ASSESSMENT OF DISTAL FEMORAL CARTILAGE THICKNESS MEASUREMENTS AFTER WALKING/JOGGING IN SUBJECTS WITH PES PLANUS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.knee.2022.09.007 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:27:24
This study investigated whether flat feet (pes planus) affects knee cartilage response to physical activity by measuring cartilage thickness changes after different loading conditions. Researchers used ultrasound to measure distal femoral cartilage thickness in 16 people with flat feet and 16 controls before and after three 30-minute conditions: rest, walking at preferred speed, and jogging at 30% above preferred walking speed. The study found no significant differences in cartilage thickness changes between the flat foot and control groups across any of the three conditions, and no differences between the different activity levels within each group. These findings suggest that having flat feet does not alter how knee cartilage responds to walking or jogging activities compared to people with normal foot structure.

HIGH FRAME RATE DEFORMATION ANALYSIS OF KNEE CARTILAGE BY SPIRAL DUALMRI AND RELAXATION MAPPING.

DOI: 10.1002/mrm.29487 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:27:19
This study aimed to develop a high-speed MRI technique to analyze cartilage deformation and viscoelastic properties during loading, potentially enabling early detection of cartilage damage. The researchers used spiral acquisition with displacement-encoding MRI at 25 frames per second to create displacement and strain maps of tibiofemoral joints, combined with relaxometry methods (T₁, T₂, T₁ρ, T₂*) in both bovine specimens and human volunteers. The key findings showed that damaged joints exhibited larger compressive strains, increased creep behavior (time-dependent deformation), and changes in T₂ relaxation times compared to intact joints, with strains concentrated in contact areas during loading. This high-frame-rate MRI approach successfully differentiated damaged from healthy cartilage and demonstrated feasibility in living human knees, suggesting it could serve as a biomarker for early osteoarthritis diagnosis when cartilage damage is still reversible.

SMALL-ANIMAL COMPRESSION MODELS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2839-3_25 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:27:11
This chapter describes nonsurgical methods for creating osteoarthritis models in small animals using mechanical compression. The key approaches involve either cyclic compression loading or acute overloading severe enough to rupture the anterior cruciate ligament in mice and rats. These compression-based models offer significant advantages over surgical methods, including high reproducibility, minimal technical expertise requirements, and predictable development of osteoarthritis-like changes that progress rapidly. The authors provide detailed protocols and equipment specifications for researchers to implement these mechanical compression techniques for studying osteoarthritis development and testing potential treatments.

CHARACTERIZATION OF INTRA-TISSUE STRAIN FIELDS IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXPLANTS DURING POST-LOADING RECOVERY USING HIGH FREQUENCY ULTRASOUND.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2022.111370 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:27:06
This study evaluated ultrasound elastography as a non-destructive method to visualize strain patterns within cartilage tissue during recovery after mechanical loading. Researchers applied different loads (10, 40, or 70 N) to bovine cartilage samples for 15 minutes using a spherical indenter, then used high-frequency ultrasound with speckle tracking to map tissue strains during one hour of recovery after unloading. The results showed that strain patterns were heterogeneous, with highest strains occurring in superficial cartilage directly under the indenter and decreasing toward deeper layers, while higher loads produced greater overall strains and slower recovery times. The technique successfully demonstrated load-dependent differences in cartilage deformation patterns, suggesting ultrasound elastography could serve as a valuable research tool for assessing cartilage quality and potentially as a future clinical diagnostic method for evaluating cartilage damage.

IS RUNNING GOOD OR BAD FOR YOUR KNEES? A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS OF CARTILAGE MORPHOLOGY AND COMPOSITION CHANGES IN THE TIBIOFEMORAL AND PATELLOFEMORAL JOINTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2022.09.013 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:27:00
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined whether running immediately affects knee cartilage structure and composition by analyzing MRI studies that measured cartilage changes within 48 hours of running. The researchers analyzed 24 studies involving 446 knees, focusing on changes in cartilage thickness, volume, and MRI relaxation times (T1ρ and T2) that indicate cartilage composition. The study found that running causes small, immediate decreases in knee cartilage thickness and volume (3-5% reductions) and reduces relaxation times (up to 13% decrease), but these changes appear to be temporary, with some measures returning to baseline within 90 minutes. The authors conclude that these small, transient changes suggest a single bout of running is not harmful to knee cartilage, though they note the evidence quality is very low.

ELEVATED EXPRESSION OF CCN3 IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE INDUCES OSTEOARTHRITIS IN HIP JOINTS IRRESPECTIVE OF AGE AND WEIGHT BEARING.

DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315311 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:26:54
This study investigated whether elevated CCN3 (a matricellular protein) expression in cartilage contributes to osteoarthritis development in hip joints, independent of age and mechanical loading factors. The researchers analyzed human femoral head cartilage samples from osteoarthritis patients versus controls with femoral neck fractures, and used transgenic mice with cartilage-specific CCN3 overexpression to examine causality.

Key findings showed that CCN3 expression was significantly elevated in osteoarthritic cartilage compared to normal cartilage, with levels correlating positively with disease severity (Mankin scores). The transgenic mice with CCN3 overexpression developed early joint deformation and cartilage degradation in both hip and shoulder joints, demonstrating that elevated CCN3 alone can induce osteoarthritis-like changes.

These results suggest that CCN3 plays a direct role in osteoarthritis progression across different joints, regardless of age or weight-bearing status, potentially representing a novel therapeutic target for osteoarthritis prevention and treatment.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND FEATURES OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS ON MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING IN INDIVIDUALS WITHOUT OSTEOARTHRITIS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW.

DOI: 10.1002/acr.25083 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:26:48
This systematic review examined whether physical activity levels are associated with knee osteoarthritis features visible on MRI scans in people who don't yet have osteoarthritis. The researchers analyzed 18 studies (2 randomized trials and 16 observational studies) that measured physical activity and assessed knee joint structures using MRI in adults aged 35-80 years without existing osteoarthritis. The findings were mixed and inconsistent across different joint structures: most studies showed no harmful effects of physical activity on cartilage volume, cartilage defects, or bone marrow lesions, with some studies even suggesting protective benefits for cartilage, though a few studies found increased cartilage T2 values (indicating possible early damage) and occupational activities involving knee bending were linked to meniscus problems. Overall, the authors concluded there is insufficient evidence to determine whether physical activity is beneficial or harmful to knee joint health in people without osteoarthritis, highlighting the need for more research.

CREEP-RECOVERY BEHAVIORS OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER UNIAXIAL AND BIAXIAL TENSILE LOADINGS.

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1085062 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:26:41
This study investigated how articular cartilage deforms and recovers under sustained tensile loads, which occurs during daily activities like standing and walking and may contribute to cartilage damage if recovery is incomplete. The researchers tested 36 cruciform-shaped cartilage samples from 18 bulls using a specialized biaxial testing system, examining how different stress levels (0.5-1.5 MPa) and loading directions (uniaxial vs. biaxial) affected creep-recovery behavior. Results showed that higher stress levels and uniaxial loading produced greater creep deformation, while biaxial loading led to smaller deformations, faster recovery, and less permanent strain compared to uniaxial loading. The researchers successfully developed a viscoelastic model that could predict cartilage creep-recovery behavior, providing insights that may help understand normal joint function and cartilage disease development.

ACUTE LOADING HAS MINOR INFLUENCE ON HUMAN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE GENE EXPRESSION AND GLYCOSAMINOGLYCAN COMPOSITION IN LATE-STAGE KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIAL.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2023.01.317 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:26:35
This randomized controlled trial investigated whether a single bout of exercise affects gene expression and tissue composition in severely damaged knee cartilage from osteoarthritis patients. Researchers assigned 31 patients scheduled for knee replacement surgery to either perform one-legged leg press exercises or rest 3.5 hours before surgery, then analyzed cartilage samples from different joint regions for gene activity and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content—key structural components of cartilage. The acute exercise had minimal effects on cartilage, causing only a small increase in chondroitin sulfate extractability without changing gene expression, suggesting that severely osteoarthritic cartilage doesn't respond significantly to single exercise sessions. However, the study revealed important regional differences in gene expression and GAG composition across different areas of the joint, indicating that chronic mechanical forces over time do influence cartilage structure and metabolism.

ACUTE REPAIR OF MENISCUS ROOT TEAR PARTIALLY RESTORES JOINT DISPLACEMENTS AS MEASURED WITH MRI AND LOADING IN A PORCINE KNEE.

DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.01.526670 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:26:28
This study aimed to evaluate how meniscus root tears and their surgical repair affect knee joint mechanics using advanced MRI imaging that preserves the intact joint structure. The researchers used a porcine knee model and novel MRI techniques to measure meniscus and femur movements under physiological loading in three conditions: intact meniscus, after creating an anterior root tear, and following suture anchor repair. The results showed that meniscus root tears caused significant abnormal movements of both the meniscus and femur under load, with the torn meniscus being forced out of the joint space in a rotational pattern around its posterior attachment point. While suture repair reduced these abnormal movements, it did not fully restore normal joint mechanics, which may explain why some patients still develop arthritis after meniscus repair surgery.

KNEE KINETICS AND THE MEDIAL FEMORAL CARTILAGE CROSS-SECTIONAL AREA RESPONSE TO LOADING IN INDVIDUALS WITH ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION.

DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2023.105979 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:26:22
This study investigated how knee joint forces (kinetics) relate to cartilage changes in people with ACL reconstruction after walking. The researchers used ultrasound to measure medial femoral cartilage cross-sectional area before and after 3000 steps of treadmill walking, while analyzing knee joint moments during gait in the reconstructed limb. Participants were grouped based on whether their cartilage area increased, decreased, or remained unchanged after walking. The key finding was that individuals whose cartilage area increased after walking had distinct knee loading patterns - specifically lower knee abduction moments and greater knee extension moments during early stance phase compared to the other groups. These results suggest that certain knee loading patterns may be associated with more favorable acute cartilage responses to walking in ACL-reconstructed knees.

MULTI-FRAME BIOMECHANICAL AND RELAXOMETRY ANALYSIS DURING IN VIVO LOADING OF THE HUMAN KNEE BY SPIRAL DUALMRI AND COMPRESSED SENSING.

DOI: 10.1002/mrm.29690 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:26:16
This study aimed to develop a fast MRI technique to measure cartilage deformation in the human knee during realistic loading conditions that mimic daily activities. The researchers used spiral DENSE MRI with compressed sensing to analyze knee cartilage biomechanics during cyclic varus (inward) loading at 0.5 Hz, applying forces equivalent to 0.5 times body weight, while also measuring cartilage relaxometry properties before and after loading. The results showed gradual cartilage displacement and strain over time, with compressive strain in the medial knee compartment and shear strain about half the magnitude of compressive strain, plus males exhibited greater displacement than females during loading. The compressed sensing technique successfully reduced scanning time by 25-40% while maintaining image quality, demonstrating that this approach could be clinically feasible for identifying early osteoarthritis biomarkers through realistic cartilage deformation measurements.

ACUTE REPAIR OF MENISCUS ROOT TEAR PARTIALLY RESTORES JOINT DISPLACEMENTS AS MEASURED WITH MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGES AND LOADING IN A CADAVERIC PORCINE KNEE.

DOI: 10.1115/1.4062524 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:26:10
This study investigated whether surgical repair of meniscus root tears can restore normal knee joint movement patterns using cadaveric porcine knees as a model. The researchers used MRI imaging with a specialized loading device to measure how the meniscus and femur moved under physiological loads in three conditions: intact joints, after creating anterior root tears, and following suture anchor repair.

The key findings showed that root tears caused large abnormal meniscus displacements during loading, with the anterior portion being pushed posteriorly and medially out of the joint space while pivoting around the intact posterior attachment. While suture repair significantly reduced these abnormal movements compared to the torn state, it did not fully restore the normal movement patterns seen in intact joints, which may explain why osteoarthritis can still develop after meniscus repair surgery.

DELAYED CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN RESPONSE TO LOADING IS ASSOCIATED WITH FEMORAL CARTILAGE COMPOSITION POST-ACLR.

DOI: 10.1007/s00421-023-05253-w · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:26:04
This study investigated whether blood levels of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) after walking could indicate cartilage health in people recovering from ACL reconstruction surgery. Twenty participants (6-12 months post-surgery) had blood samples taken before, immediately after, and 3.5 hours after walking 3000 steps, while MRI scans measured cartilage composition in both knees using T1ρ relaxation times. The key finding was that individuals showing greater increases in COMP levels 3.5 hours after walking (indicating cartilage breakdown) had worse cartilage composition specifically in the lateral part of the femur in their surgically repaired knee compared to their uninjured knee. This suggests that delayed COMP response to physical activity may serve as a useful blood biomarker for detecting early cartilage deterioration following ACL reconstruction, particularly in the lateral femoral cartilage.

DEVELOPMENT AND EXPERIMENTAL VALIDATION OF A DYNAMIC NUMERICAL MODEL FOR HUMAN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1177/09544119231180901 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:25:57
This study aimed to develop and validate finite element analysis (FEA) models that can accurately predict the dynamic mechanical behavior of human articular cartilage under loading conditions. The researchers created three different computational models (linear elastic, Neo-Hookean, and Ogden) and tested them against experimental data from compression testing of human femoral head cartilage at pressures up to 1.7 MPa using both static and dynamic mechanical analysis. The linear elastic model significantly overestimated displacement by 10-fold, while the Neo-Hookean model accurately predicted dynamic response but overestimated initial compression by 10 times. The third-order Ogden hyperelastic model performed best, accurately predicting both the initial compression (within one standard deviation of experimental data) and dynamic amplitude, making it the most suitable model for representing the fast dynamic response of human articular cartilage.

IMMEDIATE AND DELAYED EFFECTS OF JOINT LOADING ACTIVITIES ON KNEE AND HIP CARTILAGE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS.

DOI: 10.1186/s40798-023-00602-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:25:52
This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated how joint loading activities affect knee and hip cartilage in healthy adults and those with or at risk of osteoarthritis, using MRI to measure changes within 48 hours of activity. The researchers analyzed 40 studies involving 653 participants who performed various loading activities including walking, hopping, cycling, knee bends, and simulated standing. The main findings showed that knee cartilage thickness and volume decreased by 0-5% immediately after all loading activities in healthy adults, with patellar cartilage reducing by 5.0% after knee bends and tibial cartilage composition decreasing by 5.1% after simulated standing, though cartilage recovered within 30-90 minutes post-activity. These results provide clinicians with evidence-based guidance for designing rehabilitation programs, showing that moderate loading activities cause only minimal, reversible cartilage changes in healthy individuals.

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DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0124 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:25:46
This study investigated how different body loading conditions during exercise affect cartilage metabolism by measuring blood biomarkers of cartilage turnover and synthesis. Fifteen healthy young adults completed three 30-minute treadmill walking sessions in a crossover design: normal body weight, with 12% added weight (weighted vest), and with 12% reduced weight (using lower body positive pressure support), while blood samples were collected before, immediately after, and at 15 and 30 minutes post-exercise. The cartilage turnover marker (sCOMP) increased immediately after exercise in all three conditions, indicating mechanical sensitivity regardless of loading level. However, the cartilage synthesis marker (PIIANP) only increased during recovery (15 minutes post-exercise) in the loaded condition, suggesting that increased mechanical loading specifically stimulates cartilage anabolic activity.

LOW-GRADE INFLAMMATORY MEDIATORS AND METALLOPROTEINASES YIELD SYNCHRONOUS AND DELAYED RESPONSES TO MECHANICAL JOINT LOADING.

DOI: 10.1177/19476035231193089 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:25:39
This study investigated how different types of mechanical loading affect inflammatory and cartilage breakdown markers in healthy joints. Fifteen healthy men performed 30 minutes each of flat and tilted treadmill walking while blood samples were collected at baseline, after each walking session, and after one hour of rest to measure various inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and cartilage markers.

The results showed that both flat and tilted walking increased cartilage oligomeric protein (COMP), along with inflammatory markers IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-10, and TGF-β compared to baseline levels. However, the cartilage-degrading enzymes MMP-1 and MMP-13 were primarily elevated only after the more challenging tilted walking condition.

The findings suggest that mechanical stress on joints triggers both immediate inflammatory responses and delayed cartilage remodeling processes, with abnormal loading patterns (tilted walking) producing stronger catabolic responses than normal loading.

TIME-RESOLVED QUANTIFICATION OF PATELLOFEMORAL CARTILAGE DEFORMATION IN RESPONSE TO LOADING AND UNLOADING VIA DYNAMIC MRI WITH PROSPECTIVE MOTION CORRECTION.

DOI: 10.1002/jmri.28986 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:25:32
This study aimed to measure the real-time dynamics of patellofemoral cartilage compression and recovery during loading and unloading using advanced MRI techniques. The researchers used dynamic MRI with prospective motion correction to track cartilage deformation in 10 healthy men during a loading protocol that involved 2 minutes baseline, 5 minutes of loading at 50% body weight with the knee at 40° flexion, followed by 38 minutes of recovery.

The study successfully demonstrated that cartilage exhibits viscoelastic behavior, with elastic deformation being significantly greater than viscous deformation during both compression (12.5% vs 7.6%) and recovery (10.5% vs 6.1%). Additionally, the researchers found a residual strain of 3.6% that persisted after unloading and observed that greater elastic compression was associated with greater elastic recovery.

This technical advancement allows for real-time monitoring of cartilage biomechanics and provides new insights into the time-dependent mechanical properties of healthy cartilage, though validation in larger and patient populations is needed.

EDITORIAL FOR "TIME-RESOLVED QUANTIFICATION OF PATELLOFEMORAL CARTILAGE DEFORMATION IN RESPONSE TO LOADING AND UNLOADING VIA DYNAMIC MRI WITH PROSPECTIVE MOTION CORRECTION".

DOI: 10.1002/jmri.29001 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:25:25
I notice that you've provided a title for an editorial, but the abstract is listed as "NA" (not available). Without the abstract content, I cannot provide a meaningful summary of the study's objective, methods, and findings.

To write the concise summary you've requested, I would need access to the actual abstract text. Editorial pieces typically comment on or summarize research studies, so the abstract would contain the essential information about the research being discussed.

Could you please provide the abstract content for this editorial? Once available, I'll be happy to create a 3-4 sentence summary focusing on the study objective, key methods, and main findings in plain language suitable for clinicians and researchers.

SERUM CARTILAGE OLIGOMERIC MATRIX PROTEIN CONCENTRATION INCREASES MORE AFTER RUNNING THAN SWIMMING FOR OLDER PEOPLE.

DOI: 10.1177/19417381231195309 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:25:20
This study examined how different types of exercise affect cartilage metabolism in older adults by measuring serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (sCOMP), a biomarker that reflects cartilage breakdown and turnover. Researchers had 20 participants run 5 km and 19 participants swim 1500 m, measuring sCOMP levels before, immediately after, and at 15, 30, and 60 minutes post-exercise. Running caused a much larger acute increase in sCOMP concentration (29%) compared to swimming (6%), indicating greater cartilage metabolic activity with weight-bearing exercise. Additionally, older adults with existing knee symptoms had higher baseline sCOMP levels and greater body weight, regardless of their activity level or exercise type.

CARTILAGE DEFORMATION FOLLOWING A WALKING BOUT IN INDIVIDUALS WITH ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.25694 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:25:14
This study examined how walking affects knee cartilage thickness in people who had undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery. Researchers used ultrasound to measure femoral cartilage thickness before and after a 30-minute walking session in 30 individuals, comparing their reconstructed leg to their healthy leg, and analyzed walking mechanics using biomechanical testing. The key finding was that cartilage in the healthy leg compressed normally after walking (as expected), but cartilage in the reconstructed leg showed little to no compression response, suggesting it may be chronically underloaded during daily activities. Additionally, the reconstructed leg had thicker cartilage overall and showed greater compression when knee adduction moments (inward knee forces) were higher during walking.

GSDMD INHIBITOR PROTECTS CHONDROCYTE FROM MECHANICAL INJURY IN HUMAN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.14715/cmb/2023.69.10.33 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:25:08
This study investigated whether GSDMD, a protein that executes pyroptosis (inflammatory cell death), plays a role in cartilage damage following mechanical injury. The researchers applied controlled compression (15 or 25 MPa for one hour) to human hip cartilage samples and measured cell viability, cartilage-specific gene expression, and pyroptosis markers, while testing GSDMD inhibitors both before and after injury. They found that mechanical compression triggered pyroptosis in chondrocytes, leading to reduced cell survival and impaired cartilage function. GSDMD inhibitors were effective both as preventive treatment (before injury) and therapeutic treatment (after injury), protecting chondrocytes from death and maintaining healthy cartilage gene expression while suppressing pyroptosis.

MICROSCALE STRAIN CONCENTRATIONS IN TISSUE-ENGINEERED OSTEOCHONDRAL IMPLANTS ARE DICTATED BY LOCAL COMPOSITIONAL THRESHOLDS AND ARCHITECTURE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2023.111882 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:25:01
This study aimed to understand how the microscopic structure and composition of tissue-engineered cartilage implants (made from stem cell aggregates) influence their mechanical behavior under loading. The researchers used advanced microscopy with strain mapping and infrared spectroscopy to examine how these implants deform during compression while simultaneously measuring the local distribution of key cartilage components (aggrecan and collagen). They discovered that high strain concentrations occur at the boundaries between cell aggregates, specifically in regions where aggrecan content is low and collagen content is high. Most importantly, they identified critical compositional thresholds—below 0.015 units of aggrecan and above 0.15 units of collagen—where the constructs experience a dramatic threefold increase in compressive strain, suggesting these parameters could serve as quality control markers for manufacturing better cartilage implants.

CHARACTERISTICS OF ACUTE CARTILAGE RESPONSE AFTER MECHANICAL LOADING IN PATIENTS WITH EARLY-MILD KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1007/s10439-024-03456-6 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:24:55
This study investigated whether cartilage responds differently to mechanical loading in patients with early-mild knee osteoarthritis compared to healthy controls. The researchers used ultrasound imaging to measure medial femoral cartilage thickness and echo intensity in 56 women aged ≥50 years before and after 15 minutes of treadmill walking, comparing those with early-mild knee OA (n=29) to asymptomatic controls (n=27). The key finding was that cartilage thickness at the tibiofemoral joint decreased significantly more in the early-mild OA group compared to controls after walking, while no differences were observed in cartilage echo intensity or at the patellofemoral joint. These results suggest that greater acute cartilage deformation following mechanical loading may be an early characteristic of knee osteoarthritis, potentially reflecting altered cartilage biomechanical properties in the disease's early stages.

CHARACTERIZATION OF THE IN VIVO TRANSIENT RESPONSES OF THE FEMORAL CARTILAGE BY MEANS OF QUANTITATIVE ULTRASOUND IMAGING TECHNIQUES.

DOI: 10.1111/sms.14613 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:24:49
This study aimed to evaluate whether quantitative ultrasound (QUS) techniques can detect real-time changes in knee cartilage properties following physical stress. The researchers used specialized ultrasound imaging to measure cartilage thickness and various tissue properties in 15 participants before, immediately after, and at 5-minute intervals up to 45 minutes following a 30-minute downhill treadmill run. The results showed that cartilage thickness decreased and remained reduced for up to 30 minutes post-exercise, while two ultrasound parameters (AMR and Nakagami) also changed significantly, indicating alterations in cartilage material properties during recovery. The findings suggest that QUS imaging can successfully monitor transient cartilage responses to mechanical loading in living patients, though a single running session did not cause structural damage to the cartilage.

CHANGE IN FEMORAL CARTILAGE CROSS-SECTIONAL AREA AFTER AEROBIC AND RESISTANCE EXERCISE.

DOI: 10.1055/a-2308-3148 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:24:42
This study investigated how aerobic and resistance exercise immediately affect femoral cartilage structure and recovery time in healthy young men. Fifteen participants completed three randomized sessions (30-minute treadmill running, resistance exercises, or seated rest control) with ultrasound measurements of femoral cartilage cross-sectional area taken before, immediately after, and every 5 minutes during 50 minutes of recovery. Both exercise types caused immediate cartilage compression, with aerobic exercise producing greater reduction (-5.8%) compared to resistance exercise (-3.4%), while the control condition showed no change. Recovery to pre-exercise cartilage dimensions took 35 minutes after aerobic exercise and only 10 minutes after resistance exercise, indicating that cartilage deformation and recovery patterns differ based on exercise type.

TIBIAL AND FEMORAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE EXHIBIT OPPOSITE OUTCOMES FOR T1Ρ AND T2* RELAXATION TIMES IN RESPONSE TO ACUTE COMPRESSIVE LOADING IN HEALTHY KNEES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.112133 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:24:36
This study investigated how knee cartilage composition responds to acute compressive loading by comparing MRI measurements between loaded and unloaded conditions in healthy individuals. Ten participants underwent 3T MRI scanning on two occasions, with T1ρ and T2* relaxation times measured during both unloaded conditions and while compression equivalent to 40% body weight was applied using an MRI-compatible loading device.

The key finding was that femoral and tibial cartilage exhibited opposite responses to loading: femoral cartilage showed increases in both T1ρ (4.1-6.9 ms) and T2* (3.5-13.7 ms) values under load, while tibial cartilage demonstrated decreases in T1ρ (-5.6 to -1.7 ms) and T2* (-2.1 to 0.7 ms) values. Additionally, cartilage regions in contact during loading showed greater changes than non-contacting areas, and these response patterns were consistent across the two testing sessions, suggesting reliable and reproducible biomechanical behavior differences between femoral and tibial cartilage.

SENSITIVITY OF CARTILAGE MECHANICAL BEHAVIOUR TO SPATIAL VARIATIONS IN MATERIAL PROPERTIES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2024.106575 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:24:29
This study aimed to understand how spatial variations in cartilage material properties affect mechanical behavior in both healthy and osteoarthritic tissue. The researchers developed a mathematical model of cartilage under confined compression testing that accounts for property variations across tissue depth, incorporating modifications to represent osteoarthritic changes, then performed global sensitivity analysis to identify which parameters most influence mechanical response.

The analysis revealed that the most influential parameters differ between static versus dynamic loading conditions and between healthy versus osteoarthritic cartilage. Key findings showed that osteoarthritic changes (increased permeability and reduced fixed charge in the superficial zone) make cartilage deformation much more sensitive to superficial zone stiffness.

This suggests that degenerative changes to the superficial collagen network are amplified when other osteoarthritic features are present, providing a mechanism-based explanation for why mechanical properties of normal and osteoarthritic cartilage often show substantial overlap in experimental measurements.

CHONDROCYTE DEFORMATION DURING THE UNLOADING PHASE OF CYCLIC COMPRESSION LOADING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.112179 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:24:23
This study investigated how chondrocytes (cartilage cells) change shape and volume in response to cyclic mechanical loading, focusing specifically on cell behavior during the unloading phase. The researchers used a custom platform that allowed simultaneous mechanical loading and real-time imaging of cartilage tissue over 100 compression cycles, comparing dynamic loading conditions to static controls. The key finding was that cell volume initially decreased by 13% during early loading cycles but gradually recovered to baseline levels after approximately 20 cycles, even though the surrounding cartilage tissue had not fully recovered during unloading phases. These results suggest that chondrocytes actively regulate their volume in response to dynamic mechanical stimuli through adaptive mechanisms that differ significantly from their responses to static loading conditions.

IN VIVO HUMAN KNEE VARUS-VALGUS LOADING APPARATUS FOR ANALYSIS OF MRI-BASED INTRATISSUE STRAIN AND RELAXOMETRY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.112171 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:24:17
This study developed and tested a specialized loading device that applies varus-valgus forces to the human knee while inside an MRI scanner to assess cartilage biomechanics. The researchers first validated the apparatus in laboratory conditions, then tested it during varus loading in a clinical 3T MRI system, using spiral DENSE MRI techniques during cyclic loading to measure cartilage deformation. The device successfully enabled real-time measurement of cartilage displacement and strain patterns in the medial knee compartment, generating both biomechanical and relaxometry data during joint loading. This apparatus provides a practical workflow for future clinical studies aimed at identifying early osteoarthritis through imaging-based biomechanical biomarkers that could detect disease before structural damage becomes apparent.

RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN RUNNING BIOMECHANICS AND FEMORAL ARTICULAR CARTILAGE THICKNESS AND COMPOSITION IN ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION PATIENTS.

DOI: 10.1111/sms.14675 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:24:11
This study investigated how running affects knee cartilage health in patients who had undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) compared to healthy controls. The researchers used ultrasound to measure cartilage thickness before and after a 30-minute self-paced run, and MRI T2 mapping to assess cartilage composition in 20 ACLR patients (average 14.6 months post-surgery) and 20 matched controls.

The key findings showed that ACLR patients had poorer cartilage quality at rest, with longer T2 relaxation times in the medial femoral condyle indicating cartilage degradation. After running, ACLR patients experienced significantly greater cartilage deformation (compression) in the medial femoral cartilage compared to controls, suggesting their cartilage is more vulnerable to mechanical loading.

The study also found that in ACLR patients, those with worse baseline cartilage composition showed different running mechanics, specifically lower vertical ground reaction forces, which may represent a protective adaptation to reduce joint loading.

LOAD-INDUCED BLOOD MARKER KINETICS IN PATIENTS WITH MEDIAL KNEE COMPARTMENT OSTEOARTHRITIS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH ACCUMULATED LOAD AND PATIENT REPORTED OUTCOME MEASURES.

DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.131702.2 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:24:04
This study investigated how blood markers of joint metabolism respond to mechanical loading during walking in 24 patients with knee osteoarthritis. Researchers measured 10 blood markers before, during, and after a 30-minute walking test, while using gait analysis and musculoskeletal modeling to calculate joint loads and accumulated mechanical stress. The study found distinct response patterns: COMP and MMP-3 increased immediately after walking then decreased, while MMP-9 and resistin showed delayed decreases below baseline levels. Importantly, the magnitude of these marker changes correlated with the total mechanical load accumulated during walking and with patient-reported pain and quality of life scores, suggesting that blood biomarkers could potentially track how joints respond to mechanical stress in osteoarthritis patients.

DISCOVERING 3D HIDDEN ELASTICITY IN ISOTROPIC AND TRANSVERSELY ISOTROPIC MATERIALS WITH PHYSICS-INFORMED UNETS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.06.038 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:23:58
This study developed a physics-informed neural network called EL-UNET to map three-dimensional material properties in biological tissues without prior knowledge of their internal composition. The researchers used deep learning combined with physics principles to analyze deformation and force data from finite element simulations of brain tissue (isotropic material) and articular cartilage (transversely isotropic material) under compression. The EL-UNET method successfully identified material properties with high accuracy, achieving errors under 1.5% for brain tissue elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio, and under 5% for all five material parameters in cartilage. This represents the first 3D implementation of physics-informed neural networks for elasticity imaging, offering a powerful tool for characterizing the mechanical properties of soft tissues that could be applied in laboratory settings and potentially extended to clinical diagnostics.

TREATMENT OF KNEE CHONDRAL DEFECTS IN ATHLETES.

DOI: 10.1097/JSA.0000000000000405 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:23:52
This review examines the management of knee cartilage defects in athletes who need to return to high-demand activities. The authors discuss diagnostic approaches emphasizing MRI as the most sensitive imaging method, and outline treatment strategies ranging from conservative management to various surgical interventions including arthroscopic debridement and osteochondral reconstruction. The key finding is that most symptomatic cartilage lesions require surgical treatment due to cartilage's poor natural healing capacity, with treatment selection based on patient-specific and defect-specific factors. Success depends on creating durable repair tissue that enables pain-free return to sport through coordinated care between the athlete, surgeon, and treatment team.

EXTERNAL FOCUS OF ATTENTION REDUCES CARTILAGE LOAD DURING DROP LANDINGS.

DOI: 10.1111/sms.14718 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:23:47
This study examined whether different attentional focus instructions during landing tasks affect knee cartilage loading in young female athletes. Ten healthy women performed 50 drop landings from a 50cm box under three conditions: external focus (landing softly), internal focus (bending knees), and no instruction control, with knee cartilage assessed using MRI T2 mapping and volume measurements before and after each session. The external focus condition resulted in smaller changes in cartilage T2 relaxation time and volume in the lateral knee compartment compared to internal focus and control conditions, along with lower peak ground reaction forces during landing. These findings suggest that instructing athletes to focus externally on landing softly rather than on specific body movements may reduce cartilage stress and potentially help prevent knee injuries.

EFFECTS OF AEROBIC EXERCISE AT DIFFERENT INTENSITIES ON ARTICULAR CARTILAGE IN MICE.

DOI: 10.1556/2060.2024.00418 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:23:41
This study investigated how different intensities of aerobic exercise affect cartilage health and metabolism in mouse knee joints. Researchers divided 48 male mice into exercise groups running at speeds of 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 meters per minute, plus a control group, then analyzed cartilage thickness, cell density, and genes involved in cartilage building (anabolic) and breakdown (catabolic) processes. The results showed that low-intensity exercise (8 m/min) benefited cartilage by reducing breakdown enzymes, increasing cartilage thickness, and enhancing protective molecules like aggrecan. In contrast, high-intensity exercise (24 m/min) appeared harmful to cartilage by increasing catabolic enzymes that break down cartilage matrix, suggesting that moderate exercise intensity may be optimal for maintaining healthy joint cartilage.

MECHANOINDUCTION OF PTHRP/CAMP-SIGNALING GOVERNS PROTEOGLYCAN PRODUCTION IN MESENCHYMAL STROMAL CELL-DERIVED NEOCARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31430 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:23:35
This study investigated why mechanical loading reduces matrix production in engineered cartilage made from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), focusing on the role of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) signaling. The researchers used a custom bioreactor to apply dynamic loading to MSC-derived cartilage and examined gene expression, protein signaling, and matrix synthesis through various molecular techniques. They found that mechanical loading significantly increased PTHrP expression and cAMP signaling, which in turn reduced the production of key cartilage components (glycosaminoglycans and collagen). Importantly, blocking cAMP signaling with an inhibitor rescued matrix production, suggesting that targeting PTHrP activity could improve the mechanical properties and matrix synthesis of engineered cartilage for clinical applications.

MORPHOLOGIC RESPONSE IN FEMORAL CARTILAGE DURING AND AFTER 40-MINUTE TREADMILL RUNNING.

DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0659.22 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:23:29
This study examined how femoral cartilage thickness responds to moderate-intensity treadmill running at different speeds in healthy young men. Seventeen participants completed 40-minute runs at 7.5 and 8.5 km/h in a crossover design, with cartilage thickness measured using ultrasound every 5 minutes during running and 60-minute recovery periods. The results showed that cartilage was slightly thicker (less than 3% difference) during the faster running speed compared to the slower speed, but both speeds produced similar patterns of cartilage deformation and recovery over time. The authors concluded that these small morphological differences in femoral cartilage between the two running speeds are likely negligible from a clinical standpoint.

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS PROTECT CARTILAGE FROM ACUTE INJURIE BY REDUCING THE MECHANICAL SENSITIVITY OF CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1186/s13018-024-05081-4 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:23:23
This study investigated whether eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid, can protect cartilage cells from damage following acute injuries that often lead to post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The researchers exposed human cartilage cells to mechanical stretching and cartilage tissue samples to impact loading, then measured cell survival, calcium influx, cell death, oxidative stress, and collagen production with and without EPA treatment. EPA significantly improved cell survival and reduced mechanical damage by blocking PIEZO1 channels (which sense mechanical stress), leading to less calcium influx, reduced cell death, lower oxidative stress, and better preservation of cartilage structure and collagen. These findings suggest that EPA supplementation could be a promising therapeutic approach to prevent cartilage deterioration after acute joint injuries, though further testing in animal models and human trials is needed.

BIOMECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF LIGAMENT INJURIES IN THE KNEE JOINT DURING IMPACT IN THE UPRIGHT POSITION: A FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS.

DOI: 10.1186/s13018-024-05064-5 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:23:17
This study used finite element analysis to examine stress patterns in the four major knee ligaments (ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL) during impact forces applied to different regions of the knee while standing. The researchers created a 3D computer model from MRI images and simulated nine impact scenarios with 134 N forces applied to the upper, middle, and lower knee regions from anterior, posterior, and lateral directions, while maintaining a 300 N vertical load to simulate standing.

The findings showed that the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) experienced the highest stress levels during both anterior and posterior impacts, with maximum stresses reaching nearly 60 MPa at ligament-bone junctions. During lateral impacts, the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) showed highest stress in upper and middle knee impacts (around 30-32 MPa), while the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) was most stressed during lower knee lateral impacts (22 MPa).

Importantly, impacts to the upper portion of the knee consistently produced higher ligament stresses compared to middle and lower region impacts, suggesting that protecting the upper knee area is crucial for preventing ligament injuries during impact activities.

ACUTE RESPONSES AND RECOVERY IN THE FEMORAL CARTILAGE MORPHOLOGY FOLLOWING RUNNING AND COOL-DOWN PROTOCOLS.

DOI: 10.7717/peerj.18302 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:23:10
This study investigated how different post-exercise cool-down methods affect knee cartilage recovery and blood flow after running. Sixteen healthy young men completed 30 minutes of treadmill running followed by one of three 30-minute cool-down protocols (active cool-down, cold application, or seated rest) while researchers measured femoral cartilage thickness and posterior tibial artery blood flow using ultrasound. Running caused significant cartilage compression across all knee regions, which recovered to baseline levels within 40 minutes regardless of the cool-down method used, though cold application resulted in slightly thicker cartilage overall compared to the control condition. While active cool-down maintained elevated blood flow for 30 minutes (versus 10 minutes for other conditions), neither blood flow changes nor temperature had a meaningful impact on cartilage recovery patterns.

TIMING OF CARTILAGE ARTICULATION FOLLOWING IMPACT INJURY AFFECTS THE RESPONSE OF SURFACE ZONE CHONDROCYTES.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.26002 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:23:04
This study investigated how the timing of cartilage sliding motion affects cell survival after impact injury to determine optimal post-injury treatment strategies. Researchers used neonatal bovine cartilage samples that were subjected to spring-loaded impact injury, followed by tribological articulation (sliding against glass) either immediately after injury or after a 24-hour delay. The key finding was that immediate articulation significantly reduced cell death compared to injury alone or delayed articulation, with the protective effect being most pronounced in surface zone chondrocytes near the cartilage-joint interface. The authors suggest this protective mechanism may be due to beneficial fluid flow generated by immediate sliding motion, indicating that early mobilization following cartilage injury could help preserve cell viability and potentially prevent post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

SACROILIAC JOINT AURICULAR SURFACE MORPHOLOGY MODULATES ITS MECHANICAL ENVIRONMENT.

DOI: 10.1111/joa.14160 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:22:58
This study investigated how variations in sacroiliac joint (SIJ) shape affect its mechanical behavior during loading. The researchers analyzed CT scans from 281 individuals to measure auricular surface area, cartilage thickness, and cartilage volume, then created finite element models to simulate mechanical loading on each joint. Key findings showed that cartilage thickness was primarily influenced by sex rather than age, while surface area and cartilage volume peaked around menopause in females and varied weakly with age. Most importantly, larger SIJs with greater surface area and cartilage volume experienced lower stress and deformation under load, suggesting that joint size and shape may influence susceptibility to SIJ dysfunction and could inform more personalized treatment approaches.

A COMPUTATIONAL STUDY ON DYNAMIC BEHAVIOR OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE UNDER CYCLIC COMPRESSIVE LOADING AND MAGNETIC FIELD.

DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.109595 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:22:53
This computational study investigated how articular cartilage responds to repeated compression forces combined with magnetic fields, aiming to better understand the mechanical behavior that could inform treatment approaches for joint diseases. The researchers used mathematical modeling based on biphasic mixture theory (treating cartilage as having both solid and fluid components) and applied cyclic compression to a cylindrical cartilage sample while varying magnetic field strength and loading frequency.

Key findings showed that magnetic fields increased tissue expansion (dilatation), particularly at higher loading frequencies, while cyclic compression normally created alternating positive and negative fluid pressures within the cartilage. However, strong magnetic fields at high frequencies caused only positive pressure to develop within the tissue, and both magnetic effects and loading frequency caused notable shifts in the timing of tissue responses. The tissue's permeability (how easily fluid flows through it) had minimal impact on the overall mechanical behavior under these conditions.

CHRONIC INTERMITTENT HYPOBARIC HYPOXIA ALLEVIATES EARLY-STAGE POSTTRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS VIA NF-ΚB/NRF2 PATHWAY IN MICE.

DOI: 10.1186/s13018-024-05376-6 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:22:45
This study investigated whether chronic intermittent hypobaric hypoxia (CIHH) treatment could protect against early-stage post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) in mice. Researchers used a mechanical impact model to induce cartilage injury in mouse knees, then immediately treated animals with simulated high-altitude conditions (5000m equivalent) and monitored cartilage health over 3-28 days using histological staining, immunohistochemistry, and molecular analysis techniques. CIHH treatment significantly reduced cartilage damage, lowered inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β) and cartilage-degrading enzymes (MMP13, ADAMTS5), while preserving cartilage matrix proteins like collagen II. The protective effects occurred through activation of the antioxidant NRF2 pathway and suppression of the inflammatory NF-κB pathway, suggesting that immediate hypoxia treatment after joint injury could be a promising therapeutic approach for preventing PTOA progression.

PHARMACOLOGICAL INACTIVATION OF A NON-CANONICAL GP130 SIGNALING ARM ATTENUATES CHRONIC SYSTEMIC INFLAMMATION AND MULTIMORBIDITY INDUCED BY A HIGH-FAT DIET.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-82414-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:22:37
This study investigated whether pharmacologically blocking a non-canonical IL-6 signaling pathway could reduce chronic inflammation and age-related health problems in mice fed a high-fat diet. Researchers used aged mice on a high-fat diet to simulate chronic inflammation and treated them with R159, a small molecule that inhibits SRC family kinases downstream of IL-6/GP130 signaling. R159 treatment significantly reduced systemic inflammation in fat and liver tissues, protected against bone and cartilage loss, preserved neurogenesis, reduced weight gain, and increased physical activity. These findings suggest that selectively targeting this non-canonical IL-6 pathway could be a promising therapeutic approach for treating chronic inflammation and multiple age-related conditions without disrupting beneficial IL-6 functions.

ZONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF COLLAGEN ULTRASTRUCTURE AND RESPONSES TO MECHANICAL LOADING IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2025.01.047 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:22:31
This study aimed to understand how collagen fibrils in articular cartilage are organized across different zones and how they respond to mechanical loading, which is crucial for understanding cartilage degeneration and osteoarthritis development. The researchers used advanced polarisation-resolved second harmonic generation (PSHG) microscopy to examine collagen ultrastructure at high resolution (1 μm) in bone-cartilage samples under near-physiological conditions, combined with mechanical compression testing to observe real-time changes in collagen fiber orientation and alignment.

The key findings revealed that the transitional zone of cartilage showed the most dramatic collagen reorganization under compression, with a two-phase response mechanism: initially allowing large deformation through fiber reorientation at low strain levels, then tightening fiber alignment at higher strains to prevent excessive deformation. The study also established new anatomical landmarks for defining cartilage zones based on collagen ultrastructure and found consistent zonal proportions across cartilage samples of different thicknesses, providing important baseline data for understanding cartilage mechanics and guiding future therapeutic approaches.

ESTABLISHMENT OF AN EX VIVO CARTILAGE DAMAGE MODEL BY COMBINED COLLAGENASE TREATMENT AND MECHANICAL LOADING.

DOI: 10.1186/s13075-025-03499-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:22:24
This study aimed to develop a laboratory model of cartilage damage using bovine cartilage samples to test new cartilage repair treatments. The researchers used a two-step approach: first treating cartilage plugs with collagenase (5 minutes for mild damage) or collagenase plus aggrecanase (additional 40 minutes for moderate damage), then applying mechanical loading at different compression levels (10-20% or 20-40% of cartilage thickness). Both enzyme treatments successfully induced cartilage damage by causing significant loss of sulfated glycosaminoglycans and triggering inflammation markers, while keeping the cartilage cells alive. The model showed that mildly damaged cartilage could tolerate moderate mechanical loading (10-20% compression) but higher loading (20-40% compression) caused significant cell death at the cartilage surface, establishing a useful system for testing cartilage repair strategies and anti-inflammatory drugs.

CARTILAGE DEFORMATION, OUTCOMES, AND RUNNING FORCE COMPARISONS IN FEMALES WITH AND WITHOUT KNEE INJURIES.

DOI: 10.1123/jsr.2024-0353 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:22:18
This study compared knee cartilage responses to running between young women with and without anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) history to understand osteoarthritis risk factors. Researchers used ultrasound to measure medial femoral cartilage thickness changes before and after 30 minutes of treadmill running in 16 participants (8 ACLR, 8 controls), while also collecting ground reaction forces and patient-reported outcome scores. All participants showed significant cartilage thickness reduction after running, but there were no differences in cartilage deformation or running forces between groups, despite ACLR participants reporting worse knee symptoms and function. The findings suggest that while cartilage mechanical responses to running appear similar between groups, patient-reported symptoms may be linked to how cartilage responds to activity in ACLR individuals.

THE INFLUENCE OF HIGH-INTENSITY INTERVAL RUNNING BOUTS ON DISTAL ANTERIOR FEMORAL CARTILAGE IN COMPETITIVE DISTANCE AND MIDDLE-DISTANCE RUNNERS.

DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2025.2465943 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:22:12
This study investigated how different types of running training affect knee cartilage in competitive runners, specifically comparing continuous running with high-intensity interval training (10 × 400m repeats with 300m recovery jogs). The researchers used ultrasound imaging to measure femoral cartilage thickness before and after each running session in 24 competitive runners, while force-sensing insoles recorded ground reaction forces during running.

The key findings showed that high-intensity interval running caused significantly greater cartilage deformation in the lateral region of the distal anterior femur compared to continuous running. Both running conditions resulted in cartilage thinning after exercise (average decrease of 0.094mm), but the interval training produced more pronounced effects laterally.

Interestingly, the amount of cartilage deformation was not significantly associated with measured loading variables such as peak ground reaction forces, loading rates, or impulse, suggesting that factors beyond simple mechanical loading may contribute to the greater cartilage stress observed with interval training.

SHORT-TERM OVERLOADING EXERCISE ATTENUATES ARTICULAR CHONDROCYTE FEATURES PARTLY VIA SYNOVIUM-CARTILAGE INTERACTIONS MEDIATED BY INHIBIN SUBUNIT BETA A.

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-91742-1 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:22:05
This study aimed to investigate how short-term excessive mechanical loading affects both synovial tissue and cartilage, and to identify molecular pathways mediating interactions between these tissues. The researchers used a mouse overloading model combining weighted treadmill exercise and performed RNA sequencing on synovial and cartilage tissues at multiple time points, followed by pathway analysis and cell culture experiments. Key findings showed that single overloading episodes caused temporary inflammation in both tissues, while repeated overloading led to prolonged inflammatory responses, with a protein called inhibin subunit beta A (INHBA) identified as a key mediator produced by synovial tissue that negatively affects cartilage cells. The results suggest that synovial tissue plays an important role in cartilage damage during mechanical overloading through INHBA signaling, providing new insights into early osteoarthritis development.

MEDIAL MENISCUS EXTRUSION IS ASSOCIATED WITH ACUTE CARTILAGE DEFORMATION AFTER MECHANICAL LOADING DURING TREADMILL WALKING IN OLDER ADULTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.knee.2025.02.021 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:21:58
This study investigated whether medial meniscus extrusion (MME) - where the meniscus shifts outward from its normal position - affects how knee cartilage deforms under mechanical stress in older women. The researchers used ultrasound to measure MME and assessed cartilage thickness changes in 48 women (average age 70 years) before and after 15 minutes of treadmill walking, while also measuring knee loading forces during walking. The results showed that cartilage thickness significantly decreased after walking (from 1.6mm to 1.5mm), and importantly, greater MME was independently associated with more cartilage deformation regardless of the mechanical loading applied or baseline cartilage condition. These findings suggest that meniscus displacement compromises the meniscus's protective function, leading to increased cartilage stress and deformation during normal activities like walking.

EFFECTS OF KINEMATIC AND KINETIC VARIABLES ON ARTICULAR CARTILAGE MECHANICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2025.02.790 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:21:52
This study aimed to understand how different combinations of joint movement and loading affect knee cartilage properties at both the tissue and cellular levels. The researchers used a bioreactor system with response surface methodology to test cartilage samples under varying loads (20-60N), sliding speeds (1-100 mm/s), and contact frequencies (0.00-0.2 Hz) that mimic normal knee joint conditions. Key findings showed that cartilage stiffness increased after loading, with the magnitude depending on both load and sliding speed, while minimum cartilage deformation occurred at low loads combined with high sliding speeds. Additionally, cell death in the cartilage surface was highest under high load conditions and was influenced by the interaction between load and sliding speed, providing new insights into how normal joint mechanics affect cartilage health.

ACUTE EFFECTS OF SOLEUS EMG BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING ON TIBIOFEMORAL JOINT CONTACT FORCES IN YOUNG HEALTHY ADULTS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2025.112646 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:21:46
This study investigated whether real-time biofeedback training of the soleus muscle could modify knee joint loading patterns during walking, potentially offering a therapeutic approach for managing osteoarthritis. Thirteen healthy young adults walked on an instrumented treadmill while receiving EMG biofeedback to increase or decrease their soleus muscle activation by specific percentages (+20%, +40%, -20%), with researchers measuring joint contact forces using motion capture, force plates, and computational modeling in OpenSim. The key findings showed that participants could successfully increase soleus activation, which resulted in reduced total, medial, and lateral tibiofemoral joint contact forces, suggesting potential cartilage protection benefits. However, increased soleus activation also led to higher external knee adduction moments, indicating that while this approach shows promise for modifying joint loading, individualized treatment strategies would be necessary to optimize outcomes for different patients.

MECHANOBIOCHEMICAL FINITE ELEMENT MODEL TO ANALYZE IMPACT-LOADING-INDUCED CELL DAMAGE, SUBSEQUENT PROTEOGLYCAN LOSS, AND ANTI-OXIDATIVE TREATMENT EFFECTS IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE.

DOI: 10.1007/s10237-025-01961-8 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:21:39
This study aimed to understand how joint trauma leads to cartilage damage and post-traumatic osteoarthritis, and to evaluate the timing effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) antioxidant treatment. The researchers developed a computational finite element model that simulates drop-tower impact on cartilage using ABAQUS software, followed by modeling of oxidative stress, cell damage, and NAC treatment effects on proteoglycan content using COMSOL Multiphysics, based on previous laboratory experiments. The model demonstrated that immediate NAC treatment effectively reduces proteoglycan loss by preventing oxidative stress, cell death, and enzymatic breakdown of cartilage matrix. However, delayed NAC treatment was less effective at preventing proteoglycan loss, highlighting that timing is critical for successful intervention after cartilage injury.

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN INJURY-RELATED FACTORS AND CARTILAGE T2 RELAXATION TIME IN THE SUBACUTE PHASE IN PATIENTS AFTER ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT INJURY.

DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2025.05.002 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:21:33
This study investigated how meniscal tears, bone marrow lesions, and knee loading activity affect cartilage health (measured by T2 relaxation times on MRI) in the early weeks following ACL injury. Researchers examined 128 ACL-injured patients at an average of 29 days post-injury, using MRI to assess cartilage T2 times in both the injured and uninjured knees, while measuring daily knee loading with accelerometers. The key finding was that patients with meniscal tears had significantly prolonged T2 relaxation times specifically in the posterior tibial cartilage of both knee compartments, indicating early cartilage deterioration in these regions. Notably, bone marrow lesions and post-injury activity levels showed no significant associations with cartilage changes, suggesting that meniscal integrity plays a particularly critical role in protecting cartilage health immediately after ACL injury.

A FINITE ELEMENT SIMULATION STUDY ON THE SUPERFICIAL COLLAGEN FIBRIL NETWORK OF KNEE CARTILAGE UNDER CYCLIC LOADING: EFFECTS OF FIBRIL CROSSLINK DENSITIES.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2025.107100 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:21:27
This study aimed to investigate how different levels of collagen fibril crosslink density affect the mechanical behavior of knee cartilage's superficial layer under cyclic loading conditions that simulate walking forces. The researchers developed a microscopic finite element model featuring networks of 24 collagen fibrils with high, medium, or low crosslink densities, then applied biaxial tensile forces and cyclic loading to analyze stress and strain responses. The key findings showed that highly-crosslinked networks had greater stiffness but experienced higher fibril strain under constant loads, while both the overall network and individual fibrils became stiffer with reduced deformation after repeated loading cycles. The results suggest that collagen stiffening from cyclic loading may lead to fibril embrittlement and altered cartilage mechanics, providing insights into early micro-mechanical changes that could contribute to osteoarthritis development.

NA

DOI: 10.1186/s13287-025-04439-7 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:21:21
This study investigated how tensile forces regulate cartilage stem/progenitor cells (CSPCs) in jaw joint cartilage, which is important for understanding orthodontic treatments that modify jaw growth. The researchers used a mandibular advancement model in rats and mice to apply tensile forces, combined with flow cytometry, gene sequencing, cell tracking, and mechanical stretching experiments to examine CSPC behavior and molecular pathways.

The key findings showed that tensile loading temporarily reduced the CSPC population by accelerating their transformation into cartilage-producing cells, leading to cartilage thickening within one week. The study identified that tensile forces promote cartilage formation through a specific molecular pathway involving the Piezo1 calcium channel and protein kinase C alpha (PRKCA), providing new insights into how mechanical forces guide jaw growth modification in orthodontic practice.

QUANTITATIVE MRI-MEASURED COMPOSITION CHANGES DESPITE SMALL MECHANICAL MEASURES IN TIBIOFEMORAL CARTILAGE OF HEALTHY ADULTS UNDER APPLIED LOAD.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2025.112864 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:21:14
This study aimed to understand how knee cartilage mechanics and composition change together in healthy adults under controlled loading, which is important for understanding osteoarthritis development. The researchers used 3T MRI to image both knees of 10 healthy participants twice, comparing unloaded conditions to loading with 40% body weight while measuring cartilage deformation and compositional changes using T1ρ and T2* relaxation times. Under loading, participants showed significant decreases in bone-to-bone distance across all knee compartments and cartilage thickness reductions in some areas, with strains ranging from 0.3% to 4.9%, while T1ρ and T2* relaxation times changed significantly but in opposite directions between femoral and tibial cartilage. Notably, the study found that even small mechanical changes could produce measurable cartilage compositional changes, though mechanical and compositional measures showed limited correlation except for three significant relationships with T2*.

EXERCISE-INDUCED CHANGES IN KNEE CARTILAGE IN VIVO: COMPARING MRI SEQUENCES.

DOI: 10.1002/jor.70043 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:21:07
This study compared two MRI approaches for measuring acute changes in knee cartilage after exercise in people with knee osteoarthritis: a single QDESS sequence versus separate sequences for measuring cartilage structure and composition. Twenty adults with knee OA underwent 3T MRI scans before and after a 25-minute treadmill walk, with researchers measuring changes in cartilage thickness and T2 relaxation times. The QDESS sequence detected more widespread cartilage thickness changes across multiple knee regions (medial femur, lateral tibia, and trochlea) and T2 changes in all cartilage areas, while the multi-sequence approach detected fewer thickness changes and T2 changes only in the patella. The findings suggest that the single QDESS sequence may be more sensitive for detecting exercise-induced cartilage changes in people with knee osteoarthritis, potentially offering a more efficient imaging approach for research and clinical applications.

MECHANO-IONTRONIC HYDROGELS GENERATING BIOMIMETIC ENDOGENOUS BIOELECTRICITY FOR PROMOTING CARTILAGE REGENERATION.

DOI: 10.1002/adma.202514604 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:21:01
This study aimed to develop a biomimetic implantable hydrogel that generates natural-like electrical signals to promote cartilage regeneration, addressing the challenge of repairing avascular cartilage tissue. The researchers created a mechano-iontronic hydrogel (MI-hydrogel) that produces iontronic electricity when mechanically deformed, closely mimicking the bioelectrical properties of natural cartilage. The hydrogel successfully activated the mechanosensitive ion channel PIEZO1, which promoted stem cell differentiation into cartilage cells in laboratory studies and enhanced cartilage repair in animal models. The treatment also reprogrammed cellular metabolism by enhancing glutamine metabolism, providing a novel mechanism for accelerating tissue regeneration that combines electrical and mechanical stimulation.

MODELING THE ROLE OF ATP METABOLISM IN ARTICULAR CARTILAGE AND OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1016/j.biosystems.2025.105597 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:20:55
This study developed a mathematical model to investigate how ATP metabolism in cartilage cells (chondrocytes) contributes to osteoarthritis development and progression. The researchers created a comprehensive computational model that simulates the balance between glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation in chondrocytes, incorporating metabolic regulators and stochastic fluctuations in oxygen and glucose levels that occur during mechanical loading. The model revealed that chronic low oxygen conditions cause an irreversible shift to glycolysis, leading to reduced ATP levels and cartilage matrix loss, while natural fluctuations in oxygen levels during physical activity enhance metabolic flexibility and ATP production. Importantly, the study found that effective therapeutic interventions must target metabolic dysfunction rather than just providing structural support, suggesting that combining ATP metabolism modulation with mechanical loading strategies could offer new approaches for treating osteoarthritis.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING PROVIDES ACCURATE MEASURES OF CARTILAGE CREEP AND BIOMECHANICAL TISSUE PROPERTIES: EX VIVO COMPARISON TO GROUND TRUTH MECHANICAL TESTING.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2025.107251 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:20:49
This study evaluated whether MRI can accurately measure cartilage mechanical properties by comparing MRI-based measurements to standard mechanical testing in bovine cartilage samples. Researchers used two setups: an MRI-compatible loading device that applied controlled stress while capturing images every minute, and a universal testing machine as the reference standard, both measuring cartilage deformation over one hour of constant loading. The MRI method successfully captured cartilage creep behavior and estimated biomechanical properties that closely matched the reference measurements, with only minor differences in instantaneous modulus values. These findings demonstrate that MRI can non-invasively assess cartilage mechanical properties with reasonable accuracy, providing a foundation for future development of clinical tools to detect early osteoarthritis through biomechanical assessment rather than relying solely on pain or structural imaging features.

LONG-TERM MECHANICAL LOADING AGGRAVATES OSTEOARTHRITIS THROUGH A PRO-APOPTOTIC INFLAMMATORY MICROENVIRONMENT.

DOI: 10.7555/JBR.39.20250025 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:20:43
This study investigated whether prolonged mechanical loading worsens osteoarthritis by examining its effects on cartilage cells and tissue. Researchers used laboratory models applying moderate mechanical strain (7.5% strain at 1 Hz) for extended periods and analyzed human cartilage samples from weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing joint areas using RNA sequencing. The key finding was that prolonged loading (12 hours or more) significantly increased cartilage cell death, reduced protective cartilage proteins, and elevated nerve growth factor (NGF) levels, creating an inflammatory environment that damages cartilage. These results suggest that patients with early osteoarthritis should limit prolonged high-impact exercise sessions to prevent further cartilage deterioration.

NA

DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2025.102550 · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:20:37
This study aimed to develop biomimetic materials that replicate the depth-dependent mechanical properties of human articular cartilage for tissue engineering applications. The researchers created composite constructs by embedding polycaprolactone microfiber scaffolds (with varying fiber spacings of 200-800 μm) manufactured via melt electrowriting into photocrosslinkable gelatin-hyaluronic acid hydrogels, then analyzed their mechanical properties using compression testing, finite element analysis, and imaging techniques. The fiber-reinforced hydrogels successfully mimicked native cartilage's compressive behavior and depth-dependent strain patterns, while also supporting high cell viability and promoting chondrogenic differentiation when seeded with human articular chondrocytes. These biomimetic composites demonstrate promising potential as improved models for functional cartilage tissue engineering by recapitulating key biomechanical characteristics of native tissue.

ACUTE AND CHRONIC INJURY OF THE KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE: PREVALENCE, INJURY MECHANISMS, MRI ASSESSMENT AND ASSOCIATION WITH OSTEOARTHRITIS.

DOI: 10.1007/s00256-025-05085-z · Summary generated: 2026-02-10 18:20:31
This review examined knee cartilage injuries detected on MRI, their mechanisms, and relationship to osteoarthritis development. The authors analyzed how acute injuries (from sports/recreation, often with other knee injuries) and chronic injuries (from repetitive overloading) appear on imaging. They found that MRI assessment using intermediate-weighted, high-resolution sequences at 3 Tesla can accurately characterize cartilage lesion size, depth, and bone involvement, which is crucial for treatment planning. The study suggests that future machine learning approaches combining MRI findings with clinical data and biomarkers may improve prediction of osteoarthritis progression.

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