Preventing effects of joint contracture by high molecular weight hyaluronan injections in a rat immobilized knee model.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

To elucidate preventive effects of high molecular weight hyaluronan (HMWHA) on the joint capsule of immobilized knees in rats.

Materials and methods

Unilateral knee joints of rats were immobilized with an internal fixator. Either 50 μl of HMWHA (Im-HA group) or 50 μl of saline (control group) was administered intra-articularly once a week after surgery. Sagittal sections were prepared from the medial midcondylar region of the knee joints and assessed by histological, histomorphometric, and immunohistochemical methods. Gene expressions related to inflammation, fibrotic conditions, and hypoxia were evaluated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Tissue elasticity of the capsule from both groups was examined using a scanning acoustic

SUBMITTER: Kanazawa K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4466914 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature