Metalloproteomic Analysis of Hemophilic Arthropathy Synovial Tissue: Insights into Metal Overload and Pathogenesis

Background: Hemophilic arthropathy (HA) is a joint disease characterized by local iron overload, stemming from erythrocyte rupture and closely linked to synovial lesions. However, the precise molecular characteristics of clinical HA synovial samples remain to be defined.

Objectives: To gain insight into HA synovial tissue lesions, we utilized a metalloprotein strategy to compare the metal and protein spectra of HA with those of osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Patients/methods: We collected synovial samples from patients with HA, OA, and RA. Tissue metal and protein profiles were obtained by metallomics and proteomics, respectively. Finally, metalloproteomics strategies compare metal content, proteins, metalloproteins, and the life processes involved.

Results and conclusions: Our metallomics analysis revealed an explicit increase in heavy metal content, particularly arsenic (As) and mercury (Hg), in HA synovial samples. Through proteomics, we delineated specific metalloproteins and identified correlations between metals and pathways. These findings yield valuable insights into the pathogenesis of HA and offer potential therapeutic targets for conditions characterized by iron overload.