Raman Spectroscopic Probe Provides Optical Biomarkers of Cartilage Composition Predictive of Tissue Function.

Objective: The diagnosis of early osteoarthritis when therapeutic interventions may be most effective at reversing cartilage degeneration presents a clinical challenge. We describe a Raman arthroscopic probe and spectral analysis that measures biomarkers reflective of the content of predominant cartilage ECM constituents-glycosaminoglycans (GAG), collagen, water-essential to cartilage function. We compare the capability of Raman-probe-derived biomarkers to predict functional properties of cartilage to quantitative MRI and histopathology assessments.

Depth and strain rate-dependent mechanical response of chondrocytes in reserve zone cartilage subjected to compressive loading.

The role of the growth plate reserve zone is not well understood. It has been proposed to serve as a source of stem cells and to produce morphogens that control the alignment of clones in preparation for the transition into the proliferative zone. We hypothesized that if such a role exists, there are likely to be mechanoregulatory stimuli in cellular response through the depth of the reserve zone.

Properties of Cartilage-Subchondral Bone Junctions: A Narrative Review with Specific Focus on the Growth Plate.

Objective: The purpose of this narrative review is to summarize what is currently known about the structural, chemical, and mechanical properties of cartilage-bone interfaces, which provide tissue integrity across a bimaterial interface of 2 very different structural materials. Maintaining these mechanical interfaces is a key factor for normal bone growth and articular cartilage function and maintenance.

Materials And Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted using Google Scholar and PubMed/Medline with a specific focus on the growth plate cartilage-subchondral bone interface.