GPR22 in joint biology and disease

Osteoarthritis is the most common chronic joint disease. Despite its high incidence and the costs associated with the disease, therapeutic options are limited. The articular cartilage, a tissue that facilitates movement is primarily involved. Drug development has been hindered by a lack of understanding of the way cells communicate with other cells and the environment in the articular cartilage. In this project we will study the role of GPR22, G-coupled protein receptor 22, in the biology and pathology of the joint. GPR22 has been identified as a gene in which variation may contribute to osteoarthritis risk. Our preliminary work suggests that GPR22 changes the differentiation of cartilage cells and that it is upregulated in cartilage affected by osteoarthritis. The data suggest that GPR22 may have an effect on cartilage mineralization, a feature associated with disease. In this project, we will use different mouse model with a loss or gain of function status for GPR22 and a number of in vitro experiments. Together these studies should teach us how GPR22 plays a role in the joint and whether it could become a therapeutic target.

Keywords:G.0A06.13

Disciplines:Laboratory medicine, Palliative care and end-of-life care, Regenerative medicine, Other basic sciences, Other health sciences, Nursing, Other paramedical sciences, Other translational sciences, Other medical and health sciences