How does multi-axial loading affect the biosynthetic response and mechanical quality of cartilage in early osteo-arthritis? KU Leuven
Articular cartilage covers the end of the long bones in joints and is constantly susceptible to mechanical stresses during joint loading. These forces have a direct effect on the chondrocyte within the cartilage tissue. Due to cell-matrix interactions, chondrocytes are able to sense these effects and alter their biosynthetic activity in order to maintain their extracellular matrix (ECM) components, mainly including collagen and proteoglycans, ...