Abstract
Articular cartilage is constantly exposed to high loads. Wearing out of joints due to aging, as well as their poor functioning, is a common problem leading to a significant decline in the quality of human life. Lubricin is one of the main components of the biological lubrication system, it is a surface-active mucinous glycoprotein, which plays an important role in cartilage integrity. Its main function is to protect the cartilage surfaces from excessive friction – a necessary condition for maintaining the health of mammal joints. Moreover, lubricin has growth-regulating properties, it participates in the maturation of the subchondral bone and prevents cell adhesion. Although the molecule of lubricin was discovered almost half a century ago, there is still not much data available. The molecule has a great potential in medical applications. Studying lubricin can help solve problems caused by joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis. This review presents up-to-date information about structural and functional features of lubricin, its role in maintaining the integrity of articular cartilage, which can serve as a basis for the development of chondroprotectors or as a material to improve existing joint prostheses.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
