Researchers at Stanford have discovered that inhibiting the protein 15-PGDH can promote cartilage regeneration and prevent osteoarthritis in mice, offering hope for non-surgical treatments for aging and injury-related joint damage, with promising initial results on human tissue samples.,
Scientists at Stanford have developed a treatment that inhibits the age-related protein 15-PGDH, leading to the regeneration of knee cartilage and prevention of arthritis in mice, with promising results in human tissue, potentially offering a non-surgical option for joint repair.
Scientists in Australia have discovered a type of stem cell that could potentially regenerate decayed cartilage and reverse the effects of osteoarthritis, a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The researchers identified a new population of stem cells marked by the Gremlin 1 gene, which is responsible for the progression of osteoarthritis. Treatment with fibroblast growth factor 18 (FGF18) stimulated the proliferation of these cells in joint cartilage in mice, leading to significant recovery of cartilage thickness and reduced osteoarthritis. While the study is limited to animal models, human trials are ongoing, offering hope for a future cure for arthritis.
Researchers from the Keck School of Medicine of USC have identified key cells involved in lizard cartilage regeneration, offering potential insights for treating osteoarthritis. The study uncovers the unique interaction between two cell types, fibroblasts and septoclasts, which enable lizards to regenerate cartilage in their tails. This discovery could pave the way for developing methods to regenerate damaged cartilage in humans, addressing the lack of effective treatments for osteoarthritis.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has not been proven to regenerate cartilage or halt the progression of osteoarthritis. A recent trial showed no benefit of PRP injections compared to a placebo. The main treatment for osteoarthritis is regular exercise and pain medication as necessary. Calcium supplements have mixed results in terms of safety, with some studies showing a small increase in the risk of developing blockages in the heart arteries. It is generally recommended to obtain calcium from the diet, such as dairy products and certain fish, to reduce the risk of heart disease and kidney stones. However, there are situations where calcium supplementation may be necessary, such as in individuals with osteoporosis who are unable to obtain enough calcium from their diet.