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Updated: Nov 18, 2025
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Software-Assisted Quantitative Measurement of Osteoarthritic Subchondral Bone Thickness
Published on: March 18, 2022
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Subchondral Bone Remodeling: A Therapeutic Target for Osteoarthritis
Xiaobo Zhu1,2, Yau Tsz Chan1,3, Patrick S H Yung1,2
1Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology
|February 8, 2021
Summary
Subchondral bone remodeling is crucial in osteoarthritis (OA) development. This review details cellular mechanisms and therapeutic targets for OA bone changes, offering insights into future treatments.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics and Musculoskeletal Research
- Cellular and Molecular Biology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Subchondral bone remodeling is increasingly recognized as a key factor in osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis.
- Understanding the cellular and molecular underpinnings of this remodeling is vital for developing effective OA therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent research on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of subchondral bone remodeling in OA.
- To summarize current and potential therapeutic interventions targeting subchondral bone in OA.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of studies investigating subchondral bone remodeling in OA.
- Analysis of cellular components (osteoclasts, osteoblasts, osteocytes) and molecular mediators.
- Evaluation of existing OA therapies and their impact on subchondral bone.
Main Results:
- Detailed examination of key cells, extracellular matrix, vascularization, nerve innervation, and signaling pathways involved in subchondral bone remodeling.
- Identification of bone-acting reagents and regenerative therapies as potential treatment strategies.
- Summary of clinical OA therapies and their effects on subchondral bone remodeling.
Conclusions:
- Subchondral bone remodeling is a significant contributor to OA progression.
- Targeting cellular and molecular pathways in subchondral bone offers promising therapeutic avenues for OA.
- Further research into regenerative therapies and bone-acting agents is warranted for OA treatment.
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