Effects of ovariectomy and estrogen therapy on type II collagen degradation and structural integrity of articular cartilage in rats: Implications of the time of initiation

Abstract

Our results suggest that estrogen counters the acceleration of CII degradation and related structural alterations, and these benefits can be maximized by early initiation after menopause. The protective effect of estrogen seems to involve direct inhibition of the catabolic function of chondrocytes.