Fibroblast Activation Protein Alpha in Osteoarthritis
Author Information
Author(s): Jennifer M Milner, Lara Kevorkian, David A Young, Debra Jones, Robin Wait, Simon T Donell, Emma Barksby, Angela M Patterson, Jim Middleton, Benjamin F Cravatt, Ian M Clark, Andrew D Rowan, Timothy E Cawston
Primary Institution: Newcastle University
Hypothesis
The study aims to identify active serine proteinases present on chondrocyte membranes after stimulation with pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1 and oncostatin M.
Conclusion
The study identifies that FAPα gene expression is significantly elevated in cartilage from osteoarthritis patients compared to normal cartilage.
Supporting Evidence
- FAPα gene expression is significantly higher in osteoarthritic cartilage compared to normal cartilage.
- Immunohistochemistry shows FAPα expression on chondrocytes in the superficial zone of OA cartilage tissues.
- The study demonstrates the first identification of active FAPα on chondrocyte membranes.
Takeaway
Researchers found a protein called FAPα that increases in arthritis, which might help explain how cartilage breaks down in the disease.
Methodology
The study used real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry to analyze FAPα expression in chondrocytes and cartilage samples.
Participant Demographics
14 patients with osteoarthritis and 12 patients with normal cartilage from femoral neck fracture.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0009
Statistical Significance
p=0.0009
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website