Targeting the Galectin Axis in Osteoarthritis: Chondroprotective Effects of Dietary and Pharmacological Phytochemicals.

ABSTRACT:

Background/objectives

Galectins contribute to the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA) by amplifying inflammatory and catabolic signaling, yet targeted therapeutic approaches remain limited. Three Dimensional (3D) models offer a promising platform to study human OA pathophysiology and evaluate novel interventions.

Methods

We established 3D pellet cultures derived from human OA chondrocytes to investigate galectin-induced extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and the chondroprotective potential of phytochemicals. OA pellets were stimulated with individual galectins (Gal-1, -3, -4, -8) or a Gal-1/-3/-8 mixture, followed by co-treatment with Brazilin, Diacerein, Quercetin, Resveratrol, or Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU). Morphological, histological, biochemical, and gene e

SUBMITTER: Pichler KM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12655804 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature