Propionate attenuates osteoarthritis progression by regulating the gut-joint axis

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease linked to gut-joint axis dysregulation.
• Gut-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like propionate are emerging therapeutic targets for OA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the therapeutic potential of propionate in a rat model of osteoarthritis (OA).
• To explore propionate's effects on pain, inflammation, cartilage degradation, and gut microbiota in OA.

Main Methods:

• A monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA rat model was utilized.
• Behavioral, histological, and gut microbiota analyses were performed.
• Human OA chondrocytes were treated with propionate and IL-1β for molecular analysis.

Main Results:

• Propionate treatment attenuated OA severity, reduced pain, and preserved cartilage in rats.
• Propionate restored intestinal barrier function and rebalanced gut microbiota.
• In human chondrocytes, propionate modulated inflammatory gene expression, promoted autophagy, and suppressed catabolic pathways.

Conclusions:

• Propionate demonstrates significant therapeutic potential for osteoarthritis by targeting inflammation and gut dysbiosis.
• Propionate may serve as a disease-modifying therapy for OA, improving joint health and alleviating pain.