HPLC-UV Method Validation for Amobarbital and Pharmaceutical Stability Evaluation When Dispersed in a Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel: A New Concept for Post-Traumatic Osteoarthritis Prevention

Guilu Erxian glue reduces endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated apoptosis and restores the balance of extracellular matrix synthesis and degradation in chondrocytes by inhibiting the ATF6/GRP78/CHOP signaling pathway

Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) is characterized by phenotypic alterations, apoptosis, and the breakdown of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the superficial articular cartilage cells. The inflammatory response activates the Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress (ERS) signaling pathway, which plays a critical role in the pathophysiology and progression of KOA. Chondrocytes stimulated by thapsigargin(TG)exhibit heightened ERS and significantly increase the expression of ERS-associated proteins. Key mediators of ERS-induced apoptosis include X-box-binding protein 1(XBP1), elevated levels of the protein transport protein Sec61 subunit (SEC61), and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP). While the precise mechanism of action of Guilu Erxian Glue (GEG), a medication commonly used in the clinical treatment of KOA, remains to be fully elucidated, our research has shown that GEG mitigates the imbalance between ECM synthesis and degradation, as well as chondrocyte apoptosis resulting from ERS. This effect is likely achieved through the suppression of the Activating Transcription Factor 6 (ATF6)/Glucose-Regulatory Protein 78 (GRP78)/CHOP signaling pathway. In summary,our research results indicate that GEG can activate the ATF6/GRP78/CHOP signaling pathway to restore endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis in chondrocytes, thereby reducing chondrocyte apoptosis and ultimately promoting the balance between ECM synthesis and degradation.

Enhanced Surface Immunomodification of Engineered Hydrogel Materials through Chondrocyte Modulation for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by cartilage degeneration and synovial inflammation, with chondrocytes playing a pivotal role in this disease. However, inflammatory mediators, mechanical stress, and oxidative stress can compromise functionality. The occurrence and progression of OA are intrinsically linked to the immune response. Current research on the treatment of OA mainly concentrates on the synergistic application of drugs and tissue engineering. The surface of engineered hydrogel materials can be immunomodified to affect the function of chondrocytes in drug therapy, gene therapy, and cell therapy. Prior studies have concentrated on the drug-loading function of hydrogels but overlooked the immunomodulatory role of chondrocytes. These modifications can inhibit the proliferation and differentiation of chondrocytes, reduce the inflammatory response, and promote cartilage regeneration. The surface immunomodification of engineered hydrogel materials can significantly enhance their efficacy in the treatment of OA. Thus, immunomodulatory tissue engineering has significant potential for treating osteoarthritis.