BMP7 reduces the fibrocartilage chondrocyte phenotype through MMP2

Abstract

Purpose: The fibrocartilage chondrocyte phenotype has been recognized as a pathological chondrocyte in osteoarthritic (OA) articular cartilage. Although relatively rare and mainly found in late-stage OA, the fibrocartilage chondrocyte expresses a high ratio of genes related to unfavorable OA outcomes, emphasizing its importance in OA disease development. Development of the fibrocartilage chondrocyte phenotype resembles fibrotic processes also observed in other tissues. BMP7 is being explored as a potential disease-modifying molecule reversing the hypertrophic chondrocyte phenotype in OA.