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AMPK signaling in osteoarthritis: from mechanisms to targeted therapeutics

Lin Chen1, Xiu-Hua Hu2, Xin-Yi Wu1

  • 1Graduate school, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.

Frontiers in Pharmacology
|November 24, 2025
PubMed

Insights

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling is crucial for joint health in osteoarthritis. Modulating AMPK offers a promising therapeutic target for safer and more effective osteoarthritis treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology
  • Rheumatology

Background:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease causing pain and mobility loss.
  • Current OA treatments provide limited relief and have side effects.
  • There is a need for novel, safer therapeutic strategies for OA.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling in joint tissues.
  • To explore AMPK signaling as a potential therapeutic target for osteoarthritis.
  • To inform the development of targeted OA therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of existing literature on AMPK signaling in OA.
  • Analysis of AMPK's role in maintaining homeostasis of cartilage, synovium, and subchondral bone.
  • Examination of AMPK's downstream targets (SIRT, FoxO families) and their influence on cellular processes.

Main Results:

  • AMPK signaling protects joint tissues from mechanical stress and inflammation.
  • Modulating AMPK influences autophagy, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
  • AMPK pathways may reduce cartilage degradation, osteophyte formation, and synovial inflammation.

Conclusions:

  • AMPK signaling is vital for joint tissue homeostasis and protection.
  • Targeting AMPK pathways presents a promising strategy for OA treatment.
  • Further research into AMPK modulation could lead to improved OA management.
Keywords:
AMPK signalingmetabolic disordermolecular mechanismsosteoarthritistargeted-therapeutics

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