PGC1A is required for chondrocyte metabolism and cartilage homeostasis

Abstract

Purpose: It is widely accepted, that chondrocyte metabolism is restricted by low rates of anaerobic glycolysis due to a limited source of oxygen and nutrient diffusion from the surrounding synovial fluid. Thus, the roles of mitochondria in osteoarthritis (OA) are still not completely understood. However, mitochondria are important regulators for cellular function and survival and their dysfunction may mediate several pathways involved in cartilage degradation including oxidative stress, defective chondrocyte biosynthesis, cartilage matrix calcification and matrix catabolism as well as chondrocyte apoptosis.