Alterations of cartilage and collagen expression during fracture healing in experimental diabetes

We investigated alterations in the expression of mRNA for type II and type X collagen in fracture callus of experimentally induced diabetic animals compared with controls and performed radiographic, histological, immunocytochemical and biomechanical studies. Experimentally induced diabetic rats exhibited an alteration in the temporal expression of type II and type X collagen mRNA and a decrease in type X mRNA expression as compared to controls. Radiographs showed a more intense periosteal reaction and a more rapid reconstitution of cortices in control versus diabetic animals. Histologically there was a delay in chondrocyte maturation and hypertrophy seen in diabetics. Immunolocalization of type X collagen demonstrated a delay in type X collagen expression around the hypertrophic chondrocytes. Biomechanical analysis showed a decrease in the strength of healing fractures in diabetic animals. Fracture healing in diabetic patients is compromised and may lead to delays in bone union. Though the exact mechanisms are unknown, we present evidence of decreased mechanical strength of the fracture and suggest that associated changes in collagen expression and chondrocyte maturation are mechanisms leading to delayed healing in untreated and poorly controlled diabetes.