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Cartilage comeback

Materials scientists from Jena University have created a cellulose implant that can trigger the regeneration of cartilage produced naturally in the body. The implant, which consists of a sponge-like structure with two different surfaces, is designed to adhere to bone and stimulate cartilage growth.

Subchondral bone changes contribute to cartilage damage and loss

A recent study found that subchondral bone mineral density positively predicts cartilage defect development at the medial tibial site, but not cartilage loss. Researchers believe subchondral bone changes and loss of cartilage contribute to osteoarthritis, a condition affecting millions worldwide.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJun 23, 2010

Growing cartilage -- no easy task

Researchers design a bioactive nanomaterial that activates bone marrow stem cells to produce natural cartilage. The treatment shows promise in repairing damaged joints with better results than conventional microfracture procedures.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2010

Diabetes weakens your bones

Research suggests that diabetes accelerates bone loss and impairs fracture healing due to increased levels of inflammatory molecules like TNF-α. This can lead to delayed bone fracture healing and an increased risk of fractures in diabetics.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateSep 28, 2009

SAGE partners with ICRS to launch Cartilage

The new journal will publish full-length original manuscripts on all types of cartilage, including articular, tracheal/bronchial, and intervertebral disc fibrocartilage. It aims to bridge a gap in the literature by focusing on both clinical and basic science perspectives of cartilage research and repair.

SourceSAGE·JournalCartilage·DateSep 23, 2009

Getting better visualization of joint cartilage through cationic CT contrast agents

Researchers at Boston University have developed new computer tomography contrast agents that selectively bind to glycosaminoglycans in articular cartilage, improving visualization and sensitivity for diagnosing osteoarthritis. The study's findings show that these cationic agents are three times more sensitive than current contrast agents.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 1, 2009

Protein level may serve as predictor of severe osteoarthritis

A new study identifies vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) as a strong predictor of hip and knee joint replacement due to severe osteoarthritis. Elevated VCAM-1 levels were found in individuals who underwent joint replacement, mirroring active cartilage damage or an inflammatory component in OA.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJul 30, 2009

Greater quadriceps strength may benefit those with knee osteoarthritis

A new study found that stronger quadriceps muscles protect against cartilage loss in the lateral compartment of the patellofemoral joint, a site of frequent cartilage loss and pain in patients with knee OA. Greater quadriceps strength also showed to have less knee pain and better physical function than those with weaker muscles.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJan 13, 2009

Galloping and breathing at high speed

A team of researchers has developed a pacemaker to stimulate the muscles that control breathing in horses. This technology may also benefit humans with laryngeal paralysis or those who undergo laryngeal transplants. The study's findings provide insights into the coordination of movement and breathing in equines.

Out of joint

Researchers at Tel Aviv University and New York University have developed a non-invasive MRI technique that detects the earliest signs of osteoarthritis, enabling early diagnosis and treatment. The test is cost-effective and can provide results within one day.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2008

Cartilage regeneration '20,000 Leagues Under the Sea'

Bioengineers at Rice University have developed a method to stimulate cartilage cell growth using intense pressure, resulting in tissue with nearly all properties of natural cartilage. The new process has potential for treating arthritis and repairing damaged tissues, but further testing is needed.

SourceRice University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 4, 2008

Brown researchers work toward ending cartilage loss

Researchers at Brown University have developed a method to regenerate cartilage naturally by creating a synthetic surface that attracts cartilage-forming cells. The team, led by Thomas Webster, uses carbon nanotubes to stimulate cell growth through electrical pulses, which appears to enhance cartilage regeneration.

Study identifies molecular response of cartilage to injury

A microarray screening study revealed significant gene expression changes in adult human joint cartilage after injury. The study identified the Wnt-16 signaling pathway as a key player in the molecular response, which may be relevant to osteoarthritis progression.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateMay 8, 2008

New insights into inflammation in osteoarthritis

A study found that 82% of entheses have a synovio-entheseal complex (SEC), which is involved in triggering inflammation in OA. The SEC's formation is linked to fibrocartilage degeneration and cell clustering, suggesting a novel mechanism for synovial inflammation.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateOct 29, 2007

Using coxibs and NSAIDs to treat osteoarthritis

Experts emphasize evidence-based approach to treating osteoarthritis, citing benefits of coxibs and NSAIDs despite gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks. The OARSI international COX-2 workshop 2007 provided guidance on safe use of these agents.

SourceElsevier·JournalOsteoarthritis and Cartilage·DateAug 13, 2007

A potential new disease-modifying drug for osteoarthritis

Researchers found that oral calcitonin effectively protects against articular cartilage degradation and surface erosions in ovariectomized rats, a model for postmenopausal women. Calcitonin worked better than estrogen therapy, preventing cartilage erosions completely.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJul 30, 2007

The dGEMRIC index as a predictor of cartilage mechanical stiffness

Researchers used dGEMRIC MRI to measure GAG distribution and correlate it with indentation stiffness. The study found a significant relationship between the dGEMRIC index and mechanical stiffness, suggesting its potential as a predictive measure of cartilage stiffness in osteoarthritis patients.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateApr 10, 2007

Low-tech operation could dramatically reduce maternal deaths

A low-tech operation called symphysiotomy, performed under local anesthesia, can increase the size of the pelvic outlet and permit vaginal delivery of the baby. This procedure has been largely abandoned in developed countries due to its simplicity and effectiveness in addressing maternal mortality in Africa.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 26, 2007