In vivo effect of the Chinese Tenghuang Jiangu Formula on cartilage destruction and subchondral bone sclerosis

Abstract

BackgroundOsteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease worldwide, and currently no optimal treatment is available. Tenghuang Jiangu Formula (THJGF), a traditional Chinese medicine composed by several herb components, has been shown in several clinical trials a promising result in the management of OA. However, the mechanism of this medicine remains largely unknown. PurposeThis study aims to investigate the effect of THJGF on preventing cartilage degeneration in a mouse model of OA. MethodsExperimental OA was induced by surgical destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) in mice. Starting at 4 weeks post-surgery, THJGF at concentrations of high-dose (4 g/kg), middle-dose (2 g/kg) and low-dose (0.4 g/kg) were administered, respectively, through oral gavage for 4 weeks. The therapeutic effect of THJGF was evaluated by histological, radiographical, and immunohistochemical analyses. ResultsAt concentration of middle-dose (2 g/kg) administration of THJGF resulted amelioration of OA, as evidenced by the decreased OARSI scores. Meanwhile, synovitis in OA joint was improved. Immunohistochemical analyses revealed that the expression of the OA-phenotype markers, MMP13 and iNOS, decreased significantly in THJGF-treated mice. In THJGF treated joint, subchondral bone sclerosis was significantly reduced as detected by micro-CT evaluation. ConclusionsOur results demonstrate oral administration of THJGF prevent OA progression through inhibiting expression of catabolic factors as well as subchondral bone sclerosis.