Open AccessA matrix metalloproteinase–generated aggrecan neoepitope as a marker of skeletal maturation and aging in cartilage
Author(s) -
Olszewski Julie,
McDonnell Joseph,
Stevens Karla,
Visco Denise,
Moore Ver
Publication year - 1996
Publication title -
arthritis & rheumatism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1529-0131
pISSN - 0004-3591
DOI - 10.1002/art.1780390724
Subject(s) - cartilage , aggrecan , osteoarthritis , type ii collagen , matrix metalloproteinase , arthritis , medicine , matrix metalloproteinase 3 , guinea pig , anatomy , pathology , endocrinology , chemistry , articular cartilage , alternative medicine
Objective . To quantify the matrix metalloproteinase–induced neoepitope F(M/V)DIPEN (Phe–[Met/Vall]‐Asp–Jle–Pro–Glu–Asn 341 ) in guinea pig and rabbit cartilage during aging. Methods . Cartilage was taken from the stifle joint, nasal septum, and xiphoid process in guinea pigs and rabbits at selected ages. The cartilage was then extracted and evaluated for F(M/V)DIPEN levels by radioimmunoassay. Results . In the 3 tissues studied, there were major increases in F(M/V)DIPEN levels during skeletal maturation and aging in both the guinea pig and rabbit cartilage. Except for spontaneous osteoarthritis that develops in guinea pigs with aging, increases in the neoepitope were not correlated with arthritis pathology. Conclusion . Increases in the level of F(M/V)‐DIPEN in cartilage occur as a result of skeletal maturation and aging. This physiologic accumulation of F(M/V)DIPEN in cartilage should be considered when using the neoepitope as a disease marker in arthritis.