Calcified Cartilage Zone Remodeling Induced by IL-1β Derived from Necrotic Subchondral Bone Initiates Cartilage Degeneration in Patients with Glucocorticoids-induced Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head.

ABSTRACT: Glucocorticoids-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (GONFH) is characterized by progressive cartilage degeneration, yet the role of calcified cartilage zone (CCZ) remodeling in this process remains poorly understood. This study investigated how the inflammatory microenvironment within necrotic subchondral bone drove CCZ remodeling and subsequent cartilage degeneration. Using osteochondral tissues from GONFH patients and interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-treated hypertrophic chondrocytes induced by ATDC5 cells, we combined histology, immunohistochemistry, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometer, transmission electron microscopy, nanoindentation testing, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and fluorescent tracking to evaluate morphological, biomechanical, and molecular changes.

SUBMITTER: Wang P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12722363 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature