Intra-articular decorin influences the fibrosis genetic expression profile in a rabbit model of joint contracture

M. P. Abdel, M. E. Morrey, J. D. Barlow, D. E. Grill, C. P. Kolbert, K. N. An, S. P. Steinmann, B. F. Morrey, J. Sanchez-Sotelo

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

23 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objectives: The goal of this study was to determine whether intra-articular administration of the potentially anti-fibrotic agent decorin influences the expression of genes involved in the fibrotic cascade, and ultimately leads to less contracture, in an animal model. Methods: A total of 18 rabbits underwent an operation on their right knees to form contractures. Six limbs in group 1 received four intra-articular injections of decorin; six limbs in group 2 received four intra-articular injections of bovine serum albumin (BSA) over eight days; six limbs in group 3 received no injections. The contracted limbs of rabbits in group 1 were biomechanically and genetically compared with the contracted limbs of rabbits in groups 2 and 3, with the use of a calibrated joint measuring device and custom microarray, respectively. Results: There was no statistical difference in the flexion contracture angles between those limbs that received intra-articular decorin versus those that received intra-articular BSA (66° vs 69°; p = 0.41). Likewise, there was no statistical difference between those limbs that received intra-articular decorin versus those who had no injection (66° vs 72°; p = 0.27). When compared with BSA, decorin led to a statistically significant increase in the mRNA expression of 12 genes (p < 0.01). In addition, there was a statistical change in the mRNA expression of three genes, when compared with those without injection. Conclusions: In this model, when administered intra-articularly at eight weeks, 2 mg of decorin had no significant effect on joint contractures. However, our genetic analysis revealed a significant alteration in several fibrotic genes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)82-88
Number of pages7
JournalBone and Joint Research
Volume3
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2014

Keywords

  • Arthrofibrosis
  • Decorin
  • Genetic expression
  • Joint contractures
  • Rabbit model

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

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