Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease of diarthrodial joints causing pain and loss of joint function. Etiology is heterogeneous, but commonly involves inflammation arising from impairment of normal tissue homeostasis and/or function. A cycle of low-grade inflammation and global tissue degradation causes alteration of tissue morphology and function via primary mechanisms or inability to withstand physiological forces. Current therapies variably ameliorate symptoms but do not modify progression. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have multi-modal properties but are ineffective in ameliorating equine OA. However, anti-inflammatory activities of bone marrow derived MSCs (BMSCs) are enhanced by three-dimensional spheroid culture so equine BMSC (eBMSC) spheroids could inhibit intra-articular inflammation. The overarching hypothesis is that eBMSCs can be enhanced to produce an allogeneic eBMSC therapy that inhibits intra-articular inflammation. In vitro experiments compared differences in anti-inflammatory phenotype between spheroid and traditionally cultured monolayer eBMSCs, the viability and health of eBMSC spheroids administered through needles, and the effects of allogeneic donor on the anti-inflammatory potential of eBMSC spheroids. A model of equine LPS induced synovitis was used to investigate anti-inflammatory efficacy of spheroid eBMSCs compared to placebo or monolayer eBMSCs in vivo. eBMSCs aggregate into spheroids that have stable stem cell marker expression with increased secretion and gene expression of IL-6 and PGE2, and gene expression of SDF-1 and TSG-6. IFN𝛾 and TNFα were not produced by eBMSC spheroids and IL-10 production varied between individuals. Spheroids maintain higher viability and lower senescence than monolayer eBMSCs after injection through a needle and form in high-throughput culture without detrimental effects on expression of TSG-6, IL-6 and PGE synthases that denote an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Additionally, there is significant variation in this phenotype depending on the eBMSC donor. eBMSC spheroids reduced total nucleated cell counts and objective lameness measurements at peak levels of intra-articular inflammation compared to monolayer cultured eBMSCs in vivo. In summary, spheroids increase anti-inflammatory potential of eBMSCs and are practical for clinical use. Increased anti-inflammatory efficacy was demonstrated in a model of in vivo inflammation. This dissertation provides an understanding of the anti-inflammatory activities of eBMSC spheroids that can be used to develop an OA therapy. / Ph. D.

Besides the molecular mechanisms regulating activation of FLS mentioned above, we also investigated anti-inflammatory activities of Chinese herbal medicine sinomenine and Liang Miao San on activated human FLS in RA. Sinomenine, an alkaloid isolated from the root of Sinomenium acutum, has been used to alleviate the symptoms of rheumatic diseases. Liang Miao San (LMS), composed of the herbs Rhizoma Atractylodis (Cangzhu) and Cotex Phellodendri (Huangbai), is another traditional Chinese medicine formula for RA treatment. Since the potential anti-inflammatory activities of sinomenine and LMS have been demonstrated, we investigated the in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of sinomenine and LMS on inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha activation of human normal and RA-FLS and the underlying intracellular mechanisms. In the present study, sinomenine was found to significantly inhibit TNF-alpha induced cell surface expression of VCAM-1 and release of inflammatory cytokine and chemokine IL-6, CCL2 and CXCL8 from both normal and RA-FLS (all p < 0.05). Our results provide a new insight into the differential anti-inflammatory activities of sinomenine and LMS through the suppression of TNF-alpha activated FLS by modulating distinct intracellular signaling pathways in RA, and help to provide a biochemical basis for the development of a cost-effective human synoviocyte model for the future screening of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) possessing potential anti-rheumatic activities. (Abstract shortened by UMI.) / IL-27, a novel member of the IL-12 family that is produced early by antigen-presenting cells (APCs), can promote T cell proliferation as well as the production of interferon-gamma by naive T lymphocytes. Recent studies have found that elevated expression of IL-27 has been detected in the synovial membranes and fluid of RA. Herein we investigated the in vitro effects of IL-27, alone or in combination with inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha or IL-Ibeta on the pro-inflammatory activation of human primary FLS isolated from RA patients and normal control subjects, and the underlying intracellular signaling molecules were also studied. We found that the plasma concentration of IL-27 in RA patients (n=112) was significantly higher than that in control subjects (n=46). Both normal and RA-FLS constitutively express functional IL-27 receptor heterodimer, gp130 and WSX-1, with more potent IL-27-mediated activation of signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT)1 in RA-FLS. IL-27 was found to induce significantly higher cell surface expression of intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1 and release of inflammatory cytokine IL-6, chemokine CCL2, CXCL9, CXCL10 and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 of RA-FLS than that of normal FLS (all p < 0.05). The above findings therefore provide a new insight into the IL-27-activated immunopathological mechanisms mediated by distinct intracellular signal transductions in joint inflammation of RA and may have important therapeutic implications. / In the present study, we have investigated the mechanisms of the activation of human fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) induced by various stimuli including interleukin (IL)-27, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and IL-beta. The activation of human FLS was studied in terms of the release of cytokines and chemokines and the expression of adhesion molecules. / We investigated the in vitro effects of uric acid crystals, alone or in combination with inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha or IL-beta on the pro-inflammatory activation of human FLS from RA patients and normal control subjects, and the underlying intracellular signaling molecules were also determined. In the present study, uric acid crystals were found to result in a significant increase of inflammatory cytokine IL-6, chemokine CXCL8 and MMP-1 from both normal and RA-FLS (all p < 0.05). Moreover, additive or synergistic effect was observed in the combined treatment of uric acid crystals and TNF-alpha or IL-1beta on the release of IL-6, CXCL8 and MMP-1 from both normal and RA-FLS. Further investigations showed that the release of inflammatory cytokine, chemokine and matrix metalloproteinase stimulated by uric acid crystals was differentially regulated by intracellular activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and JNK pathways. Our results therefore provide a new insight into the endogenous danger signal uric acid crystals-activated immunopathological mechanisms mediated by distinct intracellular signal transductions in joint inflammation, and also provide biochemical basis for the development of new modality for inflammatory rheumatic diseases. / Chen, Dapeng. / Adviser: Wong Chun Kwok. / Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 73-04, Section: B, page: . / Thesis (Ph.D.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2011. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 203-240). / Electronic reproduction. Hong Kong : Chinese University of Hong Kong, [2012] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Electronic reproduction. [Ann Arbor, MI] : ProQuest Information and Learning, [201-] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Abstract also in Chinese.

This research evaluated serum amyloid A (SAA) concentration in synovial fluid of healthy horses as a potential marker for use in the diagnosis and monitoring of horses with septic arthritis. The first study evaluated the effect of arthroscopic lavage of healthy joints on concentrations of systemic and synovial SAA; as well as total protein concentration, nucleated cell count and percentage of neutrophils in synovial fluid. The second study, evaluated the effect of repeated through-and-through joint lavage on SAA in systemic blood and SAA, total protein, nucleated cell count and percentage of neutrophils in synovial fluid from healthy joints. In the first study, middle carpal joints of 6 horses were randomly assigned to one of the following treatments 1) arthrocentesis (controls) or 2) arthroscopic lavage. A washout period of 30 days was allowed in between treatments. Synovial fluid and blood samples were collected at 0, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h. Measurements included SAA in blood and synovial fluid, and total protein, nucleated cell count and percentages of neutrophils in synovial fluid. In the second study, one tarsocrural joint was randomly assigned to receive repeated through-and-through joint lavage at 0, 48 and 96 h in 6 horses. Synovial fluid and blood samples were collected at 0, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h. Measurements included SAA in blood and synovial fluid, and total protein, nucleated cell count and percentages of neutrophils in synovial fluid. For this study, synovial fluid samples collected at time 0 were considered as control values. After arthroscopic lavage and repeated through-and-through joint lavage, systemic and synovial SAA did not increase from baseline values (except for systemic SAA at 24h after arthroscopic lavage and in controls). Total protein values were significantly increased at all time points after arthroscopic and through-and-through joint lavages (except at 96h on both lavage procedures) but not in controls. With both lavage procedures, nucleated cell count significantly increased from baseline values at all time points (except at 96h after through-and-through joint lavage). Percentage of neutrophils was significantly increased after arthroscopic lavage at all time points and only at 24h in controls; however, the percentages of neutrophils were not significantly increased after repeated through-and-through joint lavage. Synovial SAA was not affected by arthroscopic or repeated through-and-through joint lavage; however, synovial total protein and nucleated cell counts were significantly increased. Synovial SAA may be a valuable inflammatory marker that is not affected by procedures as arthroscopic or repeated through-and-through joint lavage in horses. Further validation of synovial SAA as a marker for evaluating the progression of septic joints while treatment is installed is warranted.

Apesar do recente conhecimento do papel anti-inflamatório e anti-nociceptivo do H2S na artrite induzida por carragenina (CGN) em rato, os mecanismos envolvidos ainda não são conhecidos. Tampouco se sabe se compostos híbridos antiinflamatórios não esteroides (AINEs) doadores de H2S possuem vantagens farmacológicas adicionais quando comparados aos doadores de H2S clássicos. Apesar de H2S exercer um efeito anti-nociceptivo em modelos de inflamação e dor aguda, pouco se sabe sobre o papel deste gás na dor crônica. Neste estudo investigou-se os mecanismos do H2S no modelo de sinovite e participação desse gás na dor crônica. Verificou-se que os canais de K+ATP, canais de Ca2+ tipo L ou receptores TRPV1 não estão envolvidos no mecanismo protetor do H2S na sinovite, diminuição da IL-1b e aumento da IL-10 e não houve diferença em relação a participação das enzimas oxidantes GPx e GR. Ainda, o tratamento agudo com o doador de H2S não reverteu o desconforto do teste do Rota Rod e alodinia térmica. / Despite recent knowledge of the anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive role of H2S in the carrageenin-induced arthritis (CGN) in rats, the mechanisms involved are not yet known. Nor is it known whether hybrid compounds antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) H2S donors have additional pharmacological advantages when compared to classical H2S donors. Although H2S exert an anti-nociceptive effect in models of inflammation and acute pain, little is known about the role of this gas in chronic pain . In this study we investigated the protective mechanisms of H2S in the model of synovitis and chronic pain . It was found that the K+ATP channel, L type Ca2+ channel or TRPV1 receptors are not involved in the protective mechanism of H2S in synovitis , decreased IL-1b and increased IL-10 and there was no difference in the participation of oxidant enzymes GPx and GR . Still, the acute treatment with H2S donor did not reverse the discomfort of the Rota Rod test and thermal allodynia.

Diversos experimentos em humanos e equinos discutem a eficácia do uso intra-articular do ácido hialurônico (AH). Pouco se sabe a respeito de seu potencial pró ou anti-inflamatório, bem como sobre a eficácia das moléculas de AH de diferentes pesos moleculares. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos anti-inflamatórios, anabólicos e antioxidantes da aplicação intra-articular de AH em sinovite aguda induzida por lipopolissacarídeo (LPS) em equinos. Foram utilizadas 24 articulações metacarpofalangeanas hígidas de 12 equinos jovens, avaliadas por exame físico, radiográfico e ultrassonográfico. As articulações foram divididas aleatoriamente em três grupos de oito, sendo o grupo controle tratado com triancinolona (TA) (10 mg), o grupo AH de baixo peso molecular (AH-BPM), e o grupo AH de alto peso molecular (AH-APM). Inicialmente, foram aplicados 0,25 ng de LPS por via intra-articular (momento 0). Após uma hora (momento 1), coletou-se líquido sinovial (LS) para contagem celular e imediatamente após realizado o tratamento com TA, AH-BPM ou AH-APM. Posteriormente, LS foi coletado nos momentos 8, 24 e 48 horas para contagem celular, avaliação do burst oxidativo, quantificação de prostaglandina E2 (PGE2), condroitim sulfato (CS), AH e mensuração do peso molecular do AH. Exame físico dos animais, incluindo mensuração da circunferência articular e avaliação de claudicação por meio do equipamento Lameness Locator® foi realizado em todos os momentos. As frequências cardíaca e respiratória dos animais aumentaram em todos os grupos às 8 horas (P<0,05), sendo menor no grupo TA. Em relação à circunferência articular o grupo AH-BPM apresentou maior aumento às 24 e 48 horas em relação aos outros grupos (p<0,05). O grau de claudicação do grupo AHAPM foi maior que o do grupo TA às 8 e 24 horas, mas similar ao grupo AH-BPM. O grupo TA apresentou maior quantidade de células nucleadas no LS do que o grupo AH-BPM as 24 e 28 horas e do que o grupo AH-APM às 48 horas. A concentração de PGE2 foi menor no grupo TA em relação ao grupo AH-APM às 8 horas, e a ambos os grupos que receberam AH às 48 horas (p<0,05). O grupo AH-APM mostrou maior concentração de AH às 8 horas do que os outros grupos, contudo às 48 horas o grupo TA mostrou maior concentração de AH do que os outros grupos (p<0,05). Também às 48 horas o grupo TA foi o que apresentou a menor porcentagem de AH de alto peso molecular (p<0,05). A maior concentração de CS no LS às 24 e 48 horas ocorreu no grupo TA, também observou-se o grupo TA foi o único em que a concentração de CS aumentou as 8 horas em relação aos valores basais. O grupo AH-APM foi o que apresentou menor concentração de CS às 8 horas (p<0,05). O grupo tratado com AHBPM apresentou maior intensidade de fluorescência nos momentos 24 e 48 horas (p<0,05). Apesar da triancinolona possuir efeito superior ao ácido hialurônico no controle da inflamação, ela possui efeito catabólico sobre a cartilagem articular, demonstrado pelo aumento da concentração de CS, além de quebra da molécula de AH no líquido sinovial. O AH-APM é mais indicado para terapia intra-articular em equinos uma vez que demonstrou menor efeito catabólico e oxidativo do que o AH-BPM / Several experiments have compared the efficacy of intra-articular usage of yaluronic acid (HA) within horses. Little is known about the effectiveness of different subtypes of HA in terms of its pro- and anti-inflammatory potential. The goal of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory, anabolic and antioxidant effects of intra-articular application of HA in acute synovitis induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in horses. 24 metacarpophalangeal joints of 12 young horses without musculoskeletal alterations were subjected to lameness examination (Lameness Locator®), radiography and ultrasound. These joints were divided into three groups: a positive control group treated with triamcinolone acetonide (TA) (10mg) and 2 experimental groups treated with either hyaluronic acid of low molecular weight (HALMW) or hyaluronic acid of high molecular weight (HA- HWM). Initially, all joints were injected with 0.25ng of LPS. After an hour, synovial fluid (SF) was collected for cell counting. TA, HA- HWM or HA- LMW treatments were then applied to the joints. After treatment applications, SF was collected at 3 different time points (8, 24 and 48 hours) for cell counts, oxidative burst evaluation, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) quantification, chondroitin sulfate (CS), HA and molecular weight measurements. Physical examinations, circumference measurements and lameness evaluations were carried out at each time point. The heart and respiratory rate of the animals increased in all groups at 8 hours (p <0.05), that increase was lower in the TA group. Regarding the circumference of the joint the HA-LMW group showed a greater increase at 24 and 48 hours compared to the other groups (p <0.05). The lameness of the HA-HMW group was higher than the TA group at 8 and 24 hours, but similar to the HALMW group. The TA group had a higher nucleated cells count in the SF compared to the HALMW group at 24 hours and 28 hours, and higher than the HA-HMW group at 48 hours. The PGE2 concentration was lower in the TA group in relation to the HA-HMW group at 8 hours, and lower than both groups that received HA at 48 hours (p <0.05). The HA-HMW group showed higher HA concentration at 8 hours than the other groups at 48 hours. However, the TA group showed higher HA concentration than the other groups (p <0.05). Also, at 48 hours the TA group was the one with the lowest percentage of high molecular weight HA (p <0.05). The highest concentration of CS in SF at 24 and 48 hours occurred in the TA group, and it was also observed in the TA group was the only one in which the concentration of CS increased at eight hours compared to baseline. The HA-HMW group showed the lowest concentration of CS at 8 hours (p <0.05). The group treated with HA-LMW showed higher fluorescence intensity at 24 and 48 hours (p <0.05). Although triamcinolone have an superior effect of hyaluronic acid in controlling inflammation, it has catabolic effects on cartilage, shown by increased concentration of CS, and breakage of the HA molecule in synovial fluid. The HA-HMW is recommended for intra-articular therapy in equine joints since it showed less oxidative and catabolic effects

INTRODUÇÃO: A prática de exercício físico e esporte tem sido recomendada para pacientes com hemofilia com o intuito de melhorar a qualidade de vida e reduzir a morbidade ocasionada por episódios recorrentes de sangramento no sistema musculoesquelético. A natação e os exercícios aquáticos são amplamente indicados para essa população por ocasionar uma menor sobrecarga articular e um menor risco de sangramento. Porém, ainda não se sabem os efeitos que o exercício aeróbico aquático pode ocasionar na inflamação articular e densidade mineral óssea após episódios de hemartrose de repetição. MÉTODOS: 26 ratos wistar foram divididos em Grupo-controle (C; n=8), Grupo Hemartrose (H; n=8) e Hemartrose Exercício (HE; n=10). A hemartrose foi induzida na articulação do joelho direito semanalmente por 8 semanas no Grupo H e HE por meio de infusão de sangue autólogo (0.1ml). O Grupo HE realizou um protocolo de exercício aeróbico aquático com um peso de 5% do peso corporal fixado na cauda com sessões diárias de 1 hora, 5x por semana por 8 semanas. A densidade mineral óssea (DMO) foi avaliada pré e pós-protocolo nas seguintes regiões: corpo total, fêmur, tíbia e articulação do joelho. Ao final do experimento, o plasma e o lavado do líquido sinovial foram avaliados para as concentrações das seguintes citocinas: interleucina (IL)-1alfa, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, proteína quimiotática de monócitos 1 (MCP-1), fator de crescimento endotelial vascular (VEGF), fator de necrose tumoral alfa (TNF-alfa) e interferon y (IFN-y). A concentração plasmática dos hormônios: adrenocoticotrófico (ACTH), corticosterona e melatonina, e os marcadores plasmáticos do metabolismo ósseo pró-peptídeo aminoterminal do pró-colágeno tipo I (P1NP) e telopeptídeo carboxiterminal do colágeno tipo I (CTX) foram avaliados também no final do estudo. RESULTADOS: O protocolo de exercício reduziu os níveis de MCP-1 (p=0,036) e VEGF (p=0,014), e aumentou os níveis de IL-4 (p < 0,02) e IL-10 (p < 0,01) no líquido sinovial em relação ao Grupo H. A análise plasmática mostrou um aumento da concentração de IL-4 (p=0,002) e melatonina (p=0,04), e uma redução de MCP-1 (p=0,02) e TNF-alfa (p=0,04) no Grupo HE quando comparado com o H. O grupo H mostrou uma redução da DMO no fêmur, tíbia e articulação do joelho quando comparado com os Grupos C e HE (p < 0,0001 para todas as comparações vs. C e HE). O nível de P1NP foi maior no Grupo HE do que no H (p=0,002) e de CTX menor no Grupo H quando comparado com o HE (p=0,001). CONCLUSÕES: Em conjunto, nossos resultados sugerem a capacidade do exercício aeróbico aquático em reduzir a inflamação articular, dor e prevenir a perda óssea local em modelo experimental de hemartrose / INTRODUCTION: Physical exercise and sports has been recommended for patients with hemophilia with the aim to improve the quality of life and co-morbid related to repetitive episodes of bleeds into musculoskeletal system. Swimming and aquatic exercises has been widely indicated for this population given the fact that it promote less joint overload and a decreased risk of bleeding. However, we still don´t know how the aquatic aerobic exercise can influence the joint inflammation and bone mineral density after repetitive episodes of hemarthrosis. METHODS: 26 male rats wistar were divided in Control Group (C; n=8), hemarthrosis Group (H; n=8) and hemarthrosis exercise Grup (HE; n=10). hemarthrosis was weekly induced via autologous blood injections (0.1 mL) over 8 weeks. The HE Group was subjected to a swimming exercise protocol that included a weight attached to the tail (5% of body weight), and it was performed in 1-hour sessions 5 times a week for 8 weeks. The bone mass density (BMD) was evaluated at the femur, tibia, knee joint regions and total body at baseline and after the haemarthrosis protocol. At end of exercise protocol plasma and synovial fluid concentration of interleukin (IL)-1alfa, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tumor necrosis factor alfa (TNF-alfa) and interferon interferon (IFN-y). Hormone plasmatic concetration were assesed for adrenocorticotropic (ACTH), corticosterone and melatonin and bone turnover markers Procollagen Type 1 N-Terminal Propeptide (P1NP) and collagen type 1 cross-linked C-telopeptide (CTX) were also assessed at the end of the study. RESULTS: A decrease in concentration of MCP-1 (p=0,036) and VEGF (p=0,014) as well as a increase in IL-4 (p < 0,02) and IL-10 (p < 0,01) levels were observed at HE group when compared to H group. Plasmatic analysis showed a increase in IL-4 (p=0,002) and melatonin (p=0,04) and a reduction in MCP-1 (p=0,02) and TNF-alfa (p=0,04) in HE Group in relation to H group. The H Group showed significantly reduced gains in BMD at the femur, tibia and knee joint compared with that of the HE Group (p < 0.0001 for all comparisons vs. the H). The P1NP concentrations were higher in the HE Group than in the H (p=0.002), and the CTX levels were lower in the HE Group than in the H (p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, our results suggests that aquatic aerobic exercise has the capacity to reduce the joint inflammation, pain and prevent bone loss in an experimental-induced hemarthrosis model

INTRODUÇÃO: A prática de exercício físico e esporte tem sido recomendada para pacientes com hemofilia com o intuito de melhorar a qualidade de vida e reduzir a morbidade ocasionada por episódios recorrentes de sangramento no sistema musculoesquelético. A natação e os exercícios aquáticos são amplamente indicados para essa população por ocasionar uma menor sobrecarga articular e um menor risco de sangramento. Porém, ainda não se sabem os efeitos que o exercício aeróbico aquático pode ocasionar na inflamação articular e densidade mineral óssea após episódios de hemartrose de repetição. MÉTODOS: 26 ratos wistar foram divididos em Grupo-controle (C; n=8), Grupo Hemartrose (H; n=8) e Hemartrose Exercício (HE; n=10). A hemartrose foi induzida na articulação do joelho direito semanalmente por 8 semanas no Grupo H e HE por meio de infusão de sangue autólogo (0.1ml). O Grupo HE realizou um protocolo de exercício aeróbico aquático com um peso de 5% do peso corporal fixado na cauda com sessões diárias de 1 hora, 5x por semana por 8 semanas. A densidade mineral óssea (DMO) foi avaliada pré e pós-protocolo nas seguintes regiões: corpo total, fêmur, tíbia e articulação do joelho. Ao final do experimento, o plasma e o lavado do líquido sinovial foram avaliados para as concentrações das seguintes citocinas: interleucina (IL)-1alfa, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, proteína quimiotática de monócitos 1 (MCP-1), fator de crescimento endotelial vascular (VEGF), fator de necrose tumoral alfa (TNF-alfa) e interferon y (IFN-y). A concentração plasmática dos hormônios: adrenocoticotrófico (ACTH), corticosterona e melatonina, e os marcadores plasmáticos do metabolismo ósseo pró-peptídeo aminoterminal do pró-colágeno tipo I (P1NP) e telopeptídeo carboxiterminal do colágeno tipo I (CTX) foram avaliados também no final do estudo. RESULTADOS: O protocolo de exercício reduziu os níveis de MCP-1 (p=0,036) e VEGF (p=0,014), e aumentou os níveis de IL-4 (p < 0,02) e IL-10 (p < 0,01) no líquido sinovial em relação ao Grupo H. A análise plasmática mostrou um aumento da concentração de IL-4 (p=0,002) e melatonina (p=0,04), e uma redução de MCP-1 (p=0,02) e TNF-alfa (p=0,04) no Grupo HE quando comparado com o H. O grupo H mostrou uma redução da DMO no fêmur, tíbia e articulação do joelho quando comparado com os Grupos C e HE (p < 0,0001 para todas as comparações vs. C e HE). O nível de P1NP foi maior no Grupo HE do que no H (p=0,002) e de CTX menor no Grupo H quando comparado com o HE (p=0,001). CONCLUSÕES: Em conjunto, nossos resultados sugerem a capacidade do exercício aeróbico aquático em reduzir a inflamação articular, dor e prevenir a perda óssea local em modelo experimental de hemartrose / INTRODUCTION: Physical exercise and sports has been recommended for patients with hemophilia with the aim to improve the quality of life and co-morbid related to repetitive episodes of bleeds into musculoskeletal system. Swimming and aquatic exercises has been widely indicated for this population given the fact that it promote less joint overload and a decreased risk of bleeding. However, we still don´t know how the aquatic aerobic exercise can influence the joint inflammation and bone mineral density after repetitive episodes of hemarthrosis. METHODS: 26 male rats wistar were divided in Control Group (C; n=8), hemarthrosis Group (H; n=8) and hemarthrosis exercise Grup (HE; n=10). hemarthrosis was weekly induced via autologous blood injections (0.1 mL) over 8 weeks. The HE Group was subjected to a swimming exercise protocol that included a weight attached to the tail (5% of body weight), and it was performed in 1-hour sessions 5 times a week for 8 weeks. The bone mass density (BMD) was evaluated at the femur, tibia, knee joint regions and total body at baseline and after the haemarthrosis protocol. At end of exercise protocol plasma and synovial fluid concentration of interleukin (IL)-1alfa, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tumor necrosis factor alfa (TNF-alfa) and interferon interferon (IFN-y). Hormone plasmatic concetration were assesed for adrenocorticotropic (ACTH), corticosterone and melatonin and bone turnover markers Procollagen Type 1 N-Terminal Propeptide (P1NP) and collagen type 1 cross-linked C-telopeptide (CTX) were also assessed at the end of the study. RESULTS: A decrease in concentration of MCP-1 (p=0,036) and VEGF (p=0,014) as well as a increase in IL-4 (p < 0,02) and IL-10 (p < 0,01) levels were observed at HE group when compared to H group. Plasmatic analysis showed a increase in IL-4 (p=0,002) and melatonin (p=0,04) and a reduction in MCP-1 (p=0,02) and TNF-alfa (p=0,04) in HE Group in relation to H group. The H Group showed significantly reduced gains in BMD at the femur, tibia and knee joint compared with that of the HE Group (p < 0.0001 for all comparisons vs. the H). The P1NP concentrations were higher in the HE Group than in the H (p=0.002), and the CTX levels were lower in the HE Group than in the H (p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, our results suggests that aquatic aerobic exercise has the capacity to reduce the joint inflammation, pain and prevent bone loss in an experimental-induced hemarthrosis model

Low back pain has a significant impact on global public health and economics. The bright facet sign (BFS), a common finding on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine, is associated with low back pain. While degenerative joint disease (DJD) affects low back pain, its presence appears independent of the BFS at the disc and facet joints at the same spinal level. Increased BMI, considered a risk factor for DJD, has an inverse association with the BFS. The independent relationship of DJD and the BFS is poorly understood and may represent a previously unreported pain pathway. In this nested case-control quantitative study, based on an accepted conceptual framework, 350 lumbar MRI studies on symptomatic patients with historic and anthropomorphic data related to low back pain were analyzed using Spearman's Rho and Multivariate Logistic Regression to examine any associations between the BFS at 3 spinal levels and the independent variables age, race/ethnicity, physical activity, BMI, trauma, low back pain, and DJD. The findings revealed significant associations between the BFS and the duration of pain, age, and gender at 1 or more spinal levels, the BFS and BMI and degenerative facet disease (DFD) at all 3 spinal levels, and no association between the BFS and degenerative disc disease (DDD). These results, contrary to current medical constructs where BMI, DFD, and DDD are considered predictive of low back pain, facilitate an improved understanding of joint function and contribute to the current body of knowledge related to low back pain. An understanding of the BFS as it relates to DJD and low back pain will assist clinicians with the early detection of spinal degeneration and the mitigation of pain and suffering, contributing to positive social change.

Regulation of growth is of fundamental importance for development of the organism and to maintain health. The induction of cell proliferation and matrix production are influenced by several different signaling systems, most importantly by growth factors. The human HER-family of growth factor ligands and receptors is one of the most studied and, at present, one of the most complex including 4 tyrosine kinase receptors and at least 11 different ligands cooperating in the transfer of signals. The HER-family growth responses are also influenced by other intercellular and extracellular signals, including matrix components, cytokines and hormones mediating e.g. inflammation. HER-1 (EGFR) is one of the best known and most extensively studied growth factor receptors. TGF-alpha is possibly the most potent HER-1 ligand and influences wound healing, epidermal maintenance, gastrointestinal function, lactation, pulmonary function and more. Several studies have shown important regulatory functions for some inflammatory cytokines on TGF-alpha production in white blood cells. HER-1 is widespread in epithelial cells but also in mesenchymal cells such as fibroblasts, osteogenic and chondrogenic cells. Consequently, many tumors arising from these cell types express HER family members and often show TGF-alpha and/or HER activation. Indeed, mammary cancer development has been shown when over expressing both TGF-alpha and HER-2 in mouse mammary cells in vivo. In recent years the first HER-1 and HER-2 inhibitors have come into clinical practice for treatment of breast cancer, lung cancer and gastrointestinal cancers, sometimes with great success. However, more knowledge is needed concerning the inflammatory regulation of HER-family expression including where and how the ligands and receptors cooperate. Therefore we were interested in studying the role of TGF-alpha in normal and abnormal growth. First we showed that the acute inflammatory cytokine IL-6 regulates TGF-alpha expression in U-937-1 monocytoid cells. Secondly, we detected a possible long-term enhancing influence of singledose UVR on HER-1 expression in normal human melanocytes. We continued thirdly by revealing TGF-alpha production concomitant with HER-2 in normal human synovia and release of soluble TGF-alpha into the synovial fluid. Both TGF-alpha and HER-2 production were significantly increased in inflammatory joint conditions, e.g. RA. Fourthly, we demonstrated expression of TGF-alpha, HER-1 and HER-2 in synovial sarcoma cells in culture; the observed HER-2 phosphorylation was dependent on ligand induced HER-1 activation. The presented results indicate that TGF-alpha expression can be enhanced by acute inflammatory cytokine IL-6, possibly contributing to growth stimulatory effects assigned to IL-6 itself. The acute effects of UVR on melanocytes mediate up-regulated steady-state expression of HER-1, constituting a potential target for locally produced TGF-alpha that may induce melanocyte proliferation. TGF-alpha and HER-2 seem to have a role in the maintenance of synovial joint tissues. Upregulation of TGF-alpha and HER-2 in inflammatory joint conditions, e.g. RA, represents a novel mechanism for synovial proliferation contributing to joint deterioration. TGF-alpha, HER1 and HER-2 may have a role in synovial sarcoma proliferation; further investigation is needed to evaluate HER-family inhibitors as a possible treatment alternative in this type of cancer.

Darbo tikslas Ištirti šlaunikaulio galvos diametro, tūrinio polietileno išsidėvėjimo ir chirurginės technikos įtaką atokiesiems rezultatams po klubo sąnario endoprotezavimo. Darbo uždaviniai 1. Nustatyti kartotinų operacijų dažnį po klubo sąnario endoprotezavimo Lundo Universitetinėje ligoninėje, lyginant 22 ir 32 mm šlaunikaulio galvas ir sekant pacientus nuo 9-21 metų po operacijos. 2. Palyginti suminį kartotinų operacijų dažnį po protezavimo Klaipėdos ligoninėje ir Lundo Universitetinėje ligoninėje, sekant pacientus iki 14 metų po operacijos abiejuose centruose. 3. Ištirti polietileno dėvėjimąsį esant skirtingo diametro šlaunikaulio galvoms ir nustatyti ryšį su pacientų aktyvumu, kūno masės indeksu, amžiumi ir gūžduobės inklinacijos kampu. 4. Ištirti sąnarinio skysčio kiekio t.y. ultragarsu matuojamo „kapsulinio atstumo“ ir šlaunikaulio galvos diametro ryšį protezuotame klubo sąnaryje. Metodai Mes ištyrėme 1,720 Scan Hip Classic I KSE, implantuotus 1,550 pacientams, operacijos buvo atliktos Lundo Universitetinėje ligoninėje 1983-1995 metais. Palyginome suminį revizijų dažnį tarp 22 ir 32 mm diametro šlaunikaulio galvų. Visiems pacientams buvo implantuotas tas pats Scan hip stiebas. Pacientus sekėme nuo 9 iki 21 metų po operacijos. Mes ištyrėme 655 Scan Hip Classic I KSE, implantuotus 582 pacientams Klaipėdos ligoninėje 1991 – 2001 metais ir palyginome suminį revizijų dažnį su 932 Scan Hip Classic I KSE, implantuotais 825 pacientams Lundo Universitetinėje... [toliau žr. visą tekstą] / Aseptic loosening is the major complication and causes more than 85% of the revisions in hips in Lithuania. The etiology of aseptic loosening is multifactorial, involving both mechanical and biological processes. Socket and stem micromotion and polyethylene wear are important factors that influence the long term durability of THA’s. The expected annual wear of polyethylene (PE) cups is approximately 0.1mm. This means that billions of submicron-sized wear particles are released in to the hip joint. These particles induce inflammatory process in the THA hip and have been recognized as a major reason for osteolysis and subsequent failure of the prosthetic hip. It has been recognized that besides other factors femoral head size significantly influences wear. Larger diameter femoral head is associated with increased volumetric wear in metal-PE THA . You would expect that the differences eventually would show up in different cumulative revision rates (CRR) for different head sizes. However few reports in the literature analyzed survival rates in THA with different diameter femoral heads and did not find a significant difference when followed up to 12 years. It is still unknown if a longer-term follow-up would reveal differences in CRR depending on head size. Our aim was to analyze cumulative revision rates in THA in order to investigate if a follow-up up to 21 years would reveal differences in CRR depending on head size. How surgical implantation technique and experience in THA... [to full text]