Multiscale bone quality analysis in osteoarthritic knee joints reveal a role of the mechanosensory osteocyte network in osteophytes.

ABSTRACT: Osteophytes - bony outgrowths on joint structures - are found in healthy individuals but are specifically present in late osteoarthritis (OA). Osteophyte development and function is not well understood, yet biomechanical stimuli are thought to be critical. Bone adapts to mechanical forces via the cellular network of osteocytes. The involvement of osteocytes in osteophyte formation and maturation has not been unravelled. Forty-three osteophytes from tibias of 23 OA patients (65 ± 9 years) were analysed. The trabecular bone structure of osteophytes presented with fewer trabeculae of lower bone mineral density compared to subchondral bone. We identified 40% early stage and 60% late stage osteophytes that significantly differed in their trabecular bone characteristics. Osteophyte bone revealed

SUBMITTER: Rabelo GD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6971279 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature