Activation of the Mechanosensitive Ion Channels Piezo1 and TRPV4 in Primary Human Healthy and Osteoarthritic Chondrocytes Exhibits Ion Channel Crosstalk and Modulates Gene Expression.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common degenerative joint disease causing pain and functional limitations. Physical activity as a clinically relevant, effective intervention alleviates pain and promotes joint function. In chondrocytes, perception and transmission of mechanical signals are controlled by mechanosensitive ion channels, whose dysfunction in OA chondrocytes is leading to disease progression.

Viscoelasticity and structure of blood clots generated in-vitro by rheometry: A comparison between human, horse, rat, and camel.

Background: Although the coagulation system is evolutionary well preserved, profound species differences exist in viscoelastic as well as in common laboratory tests of coagulation.

Objective: Evaluating differences in clot formation and material characterisation of clots of four mammalian species on macro-, micro- and nanoscales by the means of rheometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS).

Methods: Blood samples were collected from healthy human volunteers, laboratory rats (HL/LE inbred strain), warmblood horses and dromedary camels.