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Systems approaches in osteoarthritis: Identifying routes to novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies
Alan J Mueller1, Mandy J Peffers1,2, Carole J Proctor2,3
1Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, William Henry Duncan Building, 6 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L7 8TX, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Systems orientated research offers the possibility of identifying novel therapeutic targets and relevant diagnostic markers for complex diseases such as osteoarthritis. This review demonstrates that the osteoarthritis research community has been slow to incorporate systems orientated approaches into research studies, although a number of key studies reveal novel insights into the regulatory mechanisms that contribute both to joint tissue homeostasis and its dysfunction. The review introduces both top-down and bottom-up approaches employed in the study of osteoarthritis. A holistic and multiscale approach, where clinical measurements may predict dysregulation and progression of joint degeneration, should be a key objective in future research. The review concludes with suggestions for further research and emerging trends not least of which is the coupled development of diagnostic tests and therapeutics as part of a concerted effort by the osteoarthritis research community to meet clinical needs. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 35:1573-1588, 2017.
Insights
Systems-oriented research can identify new osteoarthritis targets. Future research should integrate holistic, multiscale approaches for better diagnostics and therapeutics.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Research
- Systems Biology
- Complex Disease Research
Background:
- Osteoarthritis (OA) research can benefit from systems-oriented approaches to find novel therapeutic targets and diagnostic markers.
- The OA research community has been slow to adopt systems-oriented methodologies, despite their potential for novel insights.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application of systems-oriented approaches in osteoarthritis research.
- To highlight the potential of holistic and multiscale strategies for understanding OA pathogenesis and progression.
- To suggest future research directions and emerging trends in OA diagnostics and therapeutics.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on systems-oriented research in osteoarthritis.
- Introduction of top-down and bottom-up systems biology approaches.
- Discussion of multiscale and holistic research strategies.
Main Results:
- Key studies using systems approaches have revealed insights into joint tissue homeostasis and dysfunction in OA.
- A gap exists in the widespread adoption of systems-oriented research within the OA community.
- Clinical measurements hold potential for predicting OA dysregulation and degeneration progression.
Conclusions:
- A holistic and multiscale approach is crucial for future osteoarthritis research.
- Coupled development of diagnostic tests and therapeutics is an emerging trend.
- Concerted efforts are needed to address clinical needs in osteoarthritis management.
