Translating genomics into mechanisms of disease: Osteoarthritis

Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol. 2015 Dec;29(6):683-91. doi: 10.1016/j.berh.2016.01.001. Epub 2016 Mar 4.

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common age-related arthritic disorder and is characterized by aberrant extracellular matrix (ECM) content and surface disruptions that range from fibrillation, clefting and delamination, leading to articular surface erosion. Worldwide, over 20% of the population is affected with OA and 80% of these patients have limitations in movement, whereas 25% experience inhibition in major daily activities of life. OA is the most common disabling arthritic disease; nevertheless, no disease-modifying treatment is available except for the expensive total joint replacement surgery at end-stage disease. Lack of insight into the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of OA has considerably contributed to the inability of the scientific community to develop disease-modifying drugs. To overcome this critical barrier, focus should be on translation of identified robust gene deviations towards the underlying biological mechanisms.

Keywords: DIO2 gene; Functional studies; Genomic profiling; Mechanisms; Osteoarthritis; Thyroid signalling.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cartilage, Articular / physiopathology*
  • Genomics*
  • Humans
  • Osteoarthritis / genetics
  • Osteoarthritis / physiopathology*