Osteoarthritis : New Study
In a breakthrough, scientists at Stanford University recently identified a key protein called 15-PGDH linked to cartilage loss during aging, offering hope for new treatments for osteoarthritis.
- Arthritis is a general term that means inflammation of the joints.
- Osteoarthritis (OA), commonly known as wear-and-tear arthritis, is the most common type of arthritis.
- It is associated with a breakdown of cartilage in joints.
- Cartilage is a firm, rubbery material that covers the ends of bones in normal joints.
- Its main function is to reduce friction in the joints and serve as a “shock absorber.
- The shock-absorbing quality of normal cartilage comes from its ability to change shape when compressed (flattened or pressed together).
- Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage in a joint to become stiff and lose its elasticity, making it more susceptible to damage.
- Over time, the cartilage may wear away in some areas, greatly decreasing its ability to act as a shock absorber.
- As the cartilage deteriorates, tendons and ligaments stretch, causing pain.
- If the condition worsens, the bones could rub against each other.
- It commonly occurs in the weight-bearing joints of the hips, knees, and spine.
- It also affects the fingers, thumbs, neck, and large toe.
- It usually does not affect other joints unless previous injury, excessive stress, or an underlying disorder of cartilage is involved.
- It is more likely to develop as people age. But it can affect much younger people, too, especially those who have had a prior joint injury.
