Expression of ADAM9 (meltrin-gamma) around aseptically loosened total hip replacement implants

G-F Ma1, M Liljeström, M Ainola

  • 1Department of Medicine/Invärtes Medicin, P.O. Box 700, FIN-00029 Helsinki University Central Hospital, Finland.

Abstract

Insights

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-9 (ADAM9) is present in tissues around loose hip implants. ADAM9 may facilitate the formation of multinuclear giant cells and osteoclasts, contributing to bone destruction.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology
  • Orthopedic Research

Background:

  • Aseptic loosening of total hip replacement (THR) implants is a significant clinical challenge.
  • The formation of multinuclear giant cells and osteoclasts contributes to bone tissue destruction in aseptic loosening.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of a disintegrin and the metalloproteinase ADAM9 (meltrin-gamma) in the formation of multinuclear giant cells and osteoclasts.
  • To examine ADAM9 expression in the interface membrane surrounding aseptically loosened THR implants.

Main Methods:

  • In situ hybridization, immunohistochemical staining, and Western blotting were used on interface membrane samples from THR revisions.
  • Human monocytes were stimulated with macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappaB ligand (RANKL), or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) particles.
  • Immunofluorescence staining and flow cytometry were employed to analyze cell populations and ADAM9 expression.

Main Results:

  • The ADAM9-positive area was significantly larger in revision THR interface tissues compared to primary THR samples.
  • ADAM9 was expressed in interface tissue macrophages and multinuclear giant cells, and in mononuclear and multinuclear cells in close proximity.
  • Monocytes stimulated with M-CSF and RANKL showed altered ADAM9 expression over time, leading to the formation of bi- and multinuclear cells.

Conclusions:

  • ADAM9 is expressed in interface tissues surrounding aseptically loosened THR implants.
  • ADAM9 may function as a fusion molecule in the development of multinuclear giant cells and osteoclasts.
  • ADAM9 plays a potential role in bone tissue destruction associated with aseptic loosening.

Related Concept Videos