Osteoprotegerin inhibits cartilage degradation through an effect on trabecular bone in murine experimental osteoarthritis

Abstract

In an experimental model of OA, meniscectomy induced bone loss and cartilage degradation at 6 weeks. Systemic administration of OPG prevented bone and cartilage degradation in vivo but had no effect on cartilage in vitro. These data collectively indicate that bone could be a contributor in the early stages of OA pathogenesis. They further suggest that disruption of RANKL/OPG balance might result in the degradation of cartilage subjected to mechanical loading. Specific targeting of the bone cytokine network might help to prevent OA.