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Neovascularisation and its role in the osteoarthritic process
1Experimental Pathology Dept, Royal National Orthopaedics Hospital, Stanmore, Middlesex.
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
|November 1, 1988
Summary
Endothelial cell stimulating angiogenic factor (ESAF) is elevated in osteoarthritis, promoting cartilage repair and matrix metalloproteinase activation. This discovery offers new insights into osteoarthritis pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Angiogenesis plays a role in osteoarthritis, but specific microvessel cell factors were unknown.
- Heparin-binding growth factors lack specificity for microvessel cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize a specific angiogenic factor for microvessel cells in osteoarthritis.
- To investigate the role of this factor in osteoarthritis pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Quantification of endothelial cell stimulating angiogenic factor (ESAF) in patient and canine sera and synovial fluids.
- Assay of ESAF's angiogenic activity.
- Evaluation of ESAF's effect on metalloproteinases and enzyme-inhibitor complexes.
Main Results:
- ESAF, a low molecular weight factor specific for microvessel cells, was identified.
- ESAF levels were significantly increased in osteoarthritic patients and dogs.
- ESAF demonstrated angiogenic activity and modulated metalloproteinase activity.
Conclusions:
- ESAF is implicated in the angiogenesis observed in osteoarthritis.
- ESAF's dual role in angiogenesis and matrix metalloproteinase activation suggests its significance in osteoarthritis pathogenesis.