Summary Statement. Umbilical cord derived stem cell secretion could enhance the osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow stem cells. It may promote bone, cartilage and tendon regeneration in rat models, but the effect was not significant up to now. Introduction. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells that have extensive proliferative capacity. MSCs synthesise various exosomes, growth factors and cytokines. Stem cell secretions were made from serum free conditioned medium of stem cells collected from different human tissues, such as adipose tissue and dental pulp. Our hypothesis is umbilical cord stem cell secretion could promote multiple proliferation and differentiation of MSCs, also enhance the regeneration of musculoskeletal tissues. Methods. In vitro: Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) were cultured in high glucose dulbecco's modified eagle medium with 10% serum. hBMSCs were treated by differential medium for osteogenic, tenogenic and chondrogenic differentiation. Alizarin red S staining, alcian blue staining and sirius red staining were used to test osteogenesis, chondrogenesis and tenogenesis of hBMSCs after treated by secretion. RNA expression level of hBMSCs were detected by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. In vivo: 10 weeks male Sprague-Dawley rats were used in all the animal studies. Rat calvarial bone defect model, rat femoral closed fracture model with internal fixation, rat articular cartilage defect model and rat patella tendon window defect model were used in animal experiments. Radiography analysis, micro-computed tomography imaging analysis, mechanical test, ultrasound test and histology analysis were used to evaluate the regeneration of bone, cartilage and tendon. Results. Alizarin red S staining showed the minimal effective concentration of 20ug/ml umbilical cord stem cells secretion could promote strong osteogenesis of hBMSCs, with enhanced expression of osteogenic markers runx2 and ocn. 20ug/ml umbilical cord stem cells secretion could promote tenogenic differentiation. The bone defect healing study using rat calvarial defect model indicated no significant difference (p»0.05) between 0.5ug/1ug umbilical cord secretion treated group (agarose gel with secretion was implanted in defect) and control (PBS) in 4 weeks or 8 weeks time points. In the rat femoral closed fracture model, the difference of bone repair between 10ug umbilical cord secretion local injection group (injected 10ug in callus after surgery) and control (PBS injected) was not significant (p»0.05) in 4 weeks or 8 weeks. In the rat articular cartilage defect model, 1ug umbilical stem cell secretion with 20ul alginate gel group recovered better than alginate gel only group in 6 weeks(p<0.05), but the difference of cartilage healing was not significant (p»0.05) between other groups (alginate gel with BMSCs) in 6 weeks or 9 weeks. In the rat patella tendon window defect model, there were more compact collagen fibers in 1ug umbilical cord secretion group (secretion with fibrin glue), but the alignment of new tissue was not better than control (PBS with fibrin glue). Also the stress of defected area was not significantly different (p»0.05) between treated and control in 6 weeks and 9 weeks. Discussion/Conclusion. The umbilical cord stem cell secretion demonstrated osteogenic, and tenogenic effect in vitro, but the result in the healing of bone, cartilage and tendon was not significant. The optimal dosage and slow release method will be considered to improve the experiment. The mechanism of stem cell secretions will be studied in further research

Aims. Our aim was to investigate occurrence of senescent cells directly in tendon tissue biopsies from patients with chronic shoulder tendinopathies, and to correlate senescence with Enhancer of zeste 2 (EZH2) expression, the functional subunit of the epigenetic master regulator polycomb repressive complex. Methods. Human proximal long head of biceps tendons from patients with different chronic shoulder pathologies (n = 22), and controls from patients with humerus fracture (n = 6) and pathology (n = 4), were histologically scored for degeneration and analyzed for gene and protein expression of tendon specific factors, senescence markers, and EZH2. Tissues were further exposed to senotherapeutic compounds and the USA Food and Drugs Administration-approved selective EZH2 inhibitor EPZ-6438 and their senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) assessed. Results. Expression of senescence markers (CDKN2A/p16, CDKN2D/p19) and EZH2 was significantly higher in tendinopathies compared to fracture or healthy tissue controls and positively correlated with the degree of tissue degeneration. Immunofluorescent stainings demonstrated colocalization of p16 and p19 with EZH2 in tenocytes. Treatment of tendon biopsies with EPZ-6438 reduced secretion of a panel of SASP factors, including interleukin-6 (IL6), IL8, matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP3) or GRO1, similarly to the senotherapeutic compound AG490. Conclusion. We demonstrate that senescence traits accumulate in pathological tendon tissues and positively correlate with tissue degeneration. Increased expression of CDKN2A/p16 and CDKN2D/p19 coincides with EZH2 expression, while its inhibition decreased the secretion of SASP factors, indicating a possible regulatory role of EZH2 in tenocyte senescence in tendinopathies. Reduction of cellular senescence, e.g. with EPZ-6438, opens ways to new potential therapeutic approaches for enhancing regeneration in chronic tendinopathies. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2025;14(2):143–154

Aims. To investigate whether idiopathic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is related to impaired osteoblast activities. Methods. We cultured osteoblasts isolated from trabecular bone explants taken from the femoral head and the intertrochanteric region of patients with idiopathic ONFH, or from the intertrochanteric region of patients with osteoarthritis (OA), and compared their viability, mineralization capacity, and secretion of paracrine factors. Results. Osteoblasts from the intertrochanteric region of patients with ONFH showed lower alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineralization capacity than osteoblasts from the same skeletal site in age-matched patients with OA, as well as lower messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of genes encoding osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein and higher osteopontin expression. In addition, osteoblasts from patients with ONFH secreted lower osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels than those from patients with OA, resulting in a higher receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) ligand (RANKL)-to-OPG ratio. In patients with ONFH, osteoblasts from the femoral head showed reduced viability and mineralized nodule formation compared with osteoblasts from the intertrochanteric region. Notably, the secretion of the pro-resorptive factors interleukin-6 and prostaglandin E. 2. as well as the RANKL-to-OPG ratio were markedly higher in osteoblast cultures from the femoral head than in those from the intertrochanteric region. Conclusion. Idiopathic ONFH is associated with a reduced mineralization capacity of osteoblasts and increased secretion of pro-resorptive factors. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(9):619–628

The effect of conditioned media from implant revision membranes on tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) secretion following PE exposure was investigated. Human Monocytes were cultured on PE/collagen coverslips, and 50 uls of culture media, conditioned media from implant revision membranes, or conditioned media from synovium was added. Cultured media were collected, and analyzed for TRAP activity. Statistical analysis showed significantly greater release of TRAP in the media with the supplement of the conditioned media from implant revision membranes, indicating that the unknown factors in the conditioned media could accelerate monocyte-macrophage TRAP secretion. Identifying and blocking of the factors would be beneficial for long-term implant performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of conditioned media from implant revision membranes on monocyte-macrophage tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) secretion. Conditioned media from implant revision membranes significantly enhanced monocyte-macrophage TRAP secretion following PE exposure in vitro. Since TRAP has been related to bone resorption, identifying and blocking factors stimulating monocyte-macrophage TRAP section would be beneficial for preventing peri-implant bone resorption. Monocytes isolated from human blood were cultured on PE/collagen coverslips, and 50 uls of fresh culture media, conditioned media from implant revision membrane, or conditioned media from synovium was added at time zero, day two and four. Cultured media were collected at day two, four and six, and analyzed for TRAP activity. As previously reported the conditioned media from the revision membranes contained TRAP activity greater than synovial membranes. Therefore the accumulative TRAP activity after culturing macrophages with PE was corrected by subtracting TRAP activity measured in the conditioned media prior to DNA normalization. Statistical analysis showed significantly greater release of TRAP in media with addition of the conditioned media from implant revision membrane when compared with either conditioned media from synovium or fresh culture media (p< 0.01, n=3). This result indicates that certain unknown soluble factors in the conditioned media from implant revision membrane could accelerate monocyte-macrophage TRAP secretion. Since TRAP enzyme has been related to bone resorption, greater TRAP secretion could lead to peri-implant osteolysis and subsequent implant loosening. Identifying and blocking of those factors would be ultimately beneficial for implant long-term clinical performance. Funding: Canadian Orthopaedic Research Foundation and Arthritis Society

Introduction: Increased levels of IL-6 and IL-8 have been found in intervertebral disc (IVD) tissue from patients undergoing fusion for discogenic low back pain. The stimuli that induce these mediators in degenerate discs remain unknown. Impaired diffusion of nutrients and wastes to and from the nucleus pulposus (NP) is believed to be an important factor in the degenerative process. The oxygen tension and pH in the NP of degenerating discs are significantly decreased. Aims: The aims of this study were to (1) demonstrate the ability of porcine NP to respond to a proinflamma-tory stimulus (lipopolysaccharride) in vitro, (2) investigate the effects of pH, pO. 2. and glucose concentration on NP proinflammatory mediator secretion and (3) determine if methylprednisolone or indomethacin can block NP proinflammatory mediator secretion. Methods: IVDs were harvested from 6-month old pigs and dissected under sterile conditions in the laboratory. 200mg samples of NP were cultured under optimal conditions (control), in a 1% O. 2. environment, at pH6 and in culture medium without glucose for 72 hours. Blocking experiments were performed by culturing LPS-stimulated samples with either methylprednisolone or indomethacin for 24 hours. IL-6 and IL-8 levels were estimated by ELISA. Results: Time and dose-response curves were generated for each experiment (results not shown). Results for the optimum dose and at 72 hours incubation were note. Data = mean ± standard deviation. Statistical analysis was by students t test. A significant result between control and stimulated groups is indicated by: * p=0.024m, † p=0.0007 or ‡ p=0.012. Methylprednisolone (2mg/ml) caused a significant (p=0.044) 30-fold reduction in IL-6 production and a significant (p=0.00004) 500-fold reduction in IL-8 levels as compared with nucleus pulposus cultured with 5 μg/ml LPS alone for 24 hours. Addition of 500 μM indomethacin significantly (p=0.04) decreased IL-6 production by a factor of 120 and IL-8 levels by a factor of 50 (p=0.00004). Necrotic cell death, as measured by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) concentration, was not significant in any of the experiments

Osteosarcoma (OS) is an aggressive bone malignancy with a high relapse rate despite combined treatment with surgery and multiagent chemotherapy. As for other cancers, OS-associated microenvironment may contribute to tumor initiation, growth, and metastasis. We consider mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) as a relevant cellular component of OS microenvironment, and have previously found that the interaction between MSC and tumor cells is bidirectional: tumor cells can modulate their peripheral environment that in turn becomes more favourable to tumor growth through metabolic reprogramming (1). Stem-like cells were derived from HOS osteosarcoma cell line by using the spherogenic system (2). CSC isolated from HOS (HOS-CSC) were co-coltured with MSC isolated from bone marrow. Cell lysates and supernatants were collected for the analysis of RNA expression and of secreted cytokines, by Q-RT-PCR and specific ELISA assays, respectively. Here, we determined the effects of MSC on OS stemness and migration, two major features associated with recurrence and chemoresistance. Recruitment of MSC to the tumor environment leads to enhanced proliferation of OS stem cells, which increase the expression levels of TGFβ1. The latter, in turn, could be responsible for the activation of NF-kB genes and IL-6 secretion by MSC. Pro-tumorigenic effects of MSC, via IL-6, including induction of HOS-CSC migration and sphere growth, can be counteracted by IL-6 neutralizing antibody. The presence of MSC is also responsible for increased expression of adhesion molecules involved in intra- or extra-vasation. Stromal cells in combination with OS spheres exploit a vicious cycle where the presence of CSC stimulates mesenchymal cytokine secretion, which in turn increases stemness, proliferation, migration, and metastatic potential of CSC. Furthermore, for the first time we identified a novel OS stem cell marker, the Met proto-oncogene, that is frequently overexpressed and is pathogenetically relevant in OS (2 and 3). Altogether, our data corroborates the concept that a comprehensive knowledge of the interplay between tumor and stroma that also includes the stem-like fraction of tumor cells is needed to develop novel and effective anti-cancer therapies

Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is a heritable bone disorder characterized by bone fragility and often caused by mutations in the Type I collagen-encoding genes COL1A1 and COL1A2. The pathophysiology of OI, particularly at the cellular level, is still not well understood. This contributes to the lack of a cure for this disorder as well as an effective preventive or management options of its complications. In the bone environment, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and osteoblasts (Ob) exert their function, at least partially, through the secretion of extracellular vesicles (EV). EV is a heterogeneous group of nanosized membrane-enclosed vesicles that carry/transfer a cargo of proteins, lipid and nucleic acids from the secreting cell to its target cells. Our objective is to characterize EVs secreted by human control (HC)- and OI-MSCs and their derived Obs, with focus on their protein content. We hypothesize that there will be differences in the protein content of EVs secreted by OI-Obs compared to HC-Ob, which may indicate a deviation from healthy Ob behavior and, thus, a role in OI pathophysiology. MSCs were harvested from the adipose tissue of four COL1A1-OI and two HC patients. They were proliferated in an EV-depleted media, then induced to differentiate to extracellular matrix (ECM)-producing osteoblasts, which then gets mineralized. EVs secreted by MSCs (MSC-EV) and Obs (Ob-EV) were then purified and concentrated. Using liquid chromatography- tandem mass spectrometry, proteomic analysis of the EV groups was done. A total of 384 unique proteins were identified in all EVs, 373 were found in Vesiclepedia indicating a good enrichment of our samples with EV proteins. 67 proteins of the total 384 were exclusively or significantly upregulated (p-value < 0 .05) in OI-Ob-EV and 28 proteins in the HC-Ob-EVs, relative to each other. These two groups of differentially expressed proteins were compared by Gene Ontology (GO) analysis of their cellular compartment, molecular functions and biological processes. We observed that there were differences in the cellular origin of EV-proteins, which may indicate heterogeneity of the isolated EVs. Molecular function and biological process analyses of the HC-Ob-EV proteins showed, as expected, predominantly calcium-related activities such as extracellular matrix (ECM) mineralization. OI-Ob-EV proteins were still predominantly exhibiting ECM organization and formation functions. Annexins A1,2,4,5 and 6 were differentially and significantly upregulated by the HC-Ob-EVs. Fibronectin (FN), Fibulin-1 and −2, and Laminins (α4 & γ1), which are amongst the early non-collagenous proteins to form the ECM, were differentially and significantly upregulated in the OI-Ob-EVs. We concluded that the persistent expression of Fibronectin (FN), Fibulin-1 and −2, and Laminins in OI-Ob-EVs might indicate the presence of an immature ECM that the OI-Obs are trying to organize. ECM mineralization is largely dependent on the presence of an organized mature ECM, and this being compromised in OI bone environment, may be a contributor to the bone fragility seen in these patients. Annexins, which are calcium-binders that are vital for ECM mineralization, were significantly downregulated in the OI-Ob-EVs and this may be a further contributor to ECM mineralization impairment and bone fragility

Bone regeneration and repair are crucial to ambulation and quality of life. Factors such as poor general health, serious medical comorbidities, chronic inflammation, and ageing can lead to delayed healing and nonunion of fractures, and persistent bone defects. Bioengineering strategies to heal bone often involve grafting of autologous bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) or mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with biocompatible scaffolds. While BMAC shows promise, variability in its efficacy exists due to discrepancies in MSC concentration and robustness, and immune cell composition. Understanding the mechanisms by which macrophages and lymphocytes – the main cellular components in BMAC – interact with MSCs could suggest novel strategies to enhance bone healing. Macrophages are polarized into pro-inflammatory (M1) or anti-inflammatory (M2) phenotypes, and influence cell metabolism and tissue regeneration via the secretion of cytokines and other factors. T cells, especially helper T1 (Th1) and Th17, promote inflammation and osteoclastogenesis, whereas Th2 and regulatory T (Treg) cells have anti-inflammatory pro-reconstructive effects, thereby supporting osteogenesis. Crosstalk among macrophages, T cells, and MSCs affects the bone microenvironment and regulates the local immune response. Manipulating the proportion and interactions of these cells presents an opportunity to alter the local regenerative capacity of bone, which potentially could enhance clinical outcomes. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(9):462–473

Monolayer expansion of human articular chondrocytes (HAC) is known to result in progressive dedifferentiation and loss of stable cartilage formation capacity in vivo. For optimal outcome of chondrocyte based repair strategies, HAC capable of ectopic cartilage formation may be required. Thus, the aim of this study was to establish appropriate quality control measures capable to predict the ectopic cartilage formation capacity of HAC from culture supernatants. This strategy would avoid the waste of cells for quality control purposes, in order to improve cell therapy and tissue-engineering approaches for the repair of joint surface lesions. Standardized medium supernatants (n=5) of freshly isolated HAC and chondrocytes expanded for 2 (PD2) or 6 population doublings (PD6) were screened for 15 distinct interleukins, 8 MMPs and 11 miscellaneous soluble factors by a multiplexed immunoassay. Cartilage differentiation markers like COMP and YKL-40 were determined by ELISA. Corresponding HAC were subcutaneously transplanted into SCID-mice and their capacity to form stable ectopic cartilage was examined histologically 4 weeks later. While freshly isolated chondrocytes generated stable ectopic cartilage positive for collagen type II, none of the PD6 transplants formed cartilaginous matrix. Loss of ectopic stable cartilage formation capacity between PD0 and PD6 correlated with a drop of MMP3 secretion to < 10% of initial levels, while changes for other investigated molecules were not predictive. Chondrocytes from donors with low MMP3 levels (< 10%) at PD2 failed to regenerate ectopic cartilage at PD2, indicating that MMP3 levels of cultured chondrocytes, independent of the number of cell doublings and the time in culture, predicted ectopic cartilage formation. In conclusion, loss of stable ectopic cartilage formation capacity in the course of HAC dedifferentiation can be predicted by determination of relative MMP3 levels demonstrating that standardized culture supernatants can be used for quality control of chondrocytes dedicated for cell therapeutic approaches

Background: 70% of Breast Cancer patients develop metastatic bone deposits, predominantly spinal metasases. Adult Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are multiprogenitor stem cells found within the bone marow which have the ability to self renew and differentiate into multiple cell types. MSCs home specifically to tumour sites, highlighting their potential as delivery vehicles for therapeutic agents. However studies show they may also increase tumour metastatic potential. Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate interactions between MSCs and breast cancer cells to further elucidate their role in the tumour microenvironment and hence understand factors involved in stimulating the formation of bone metastases. Methods: MSCs harvested from the iliac crest of healthy volunteers were grown for collection of conditioned medium (CM), containing all factors secreted by the cells. Breast cancer cell lines (T47D, SK-BR3) were then cultured in MSC CM +/− antibodies to TGFβ, VEGF, MCP-1 and CCL5 for 72hrs. Cell proliferation was assessed using an Apoglow. ®. assay and RNA harvested for analysis of changes in Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition specific gene expression: N-Cadherin, E-Cadherin, Vimentin, Twist, Snail. Results: A significant down regulation of breast cancer cell proliferation in the presence of MSC secreted factors was observed (p< 0.05). There was a dramatic increase in expression of EMT specific genes in both cell lines following exposure to MSC-secreted factors. Inclusion of antibodies to TGF, VEGF, MCP-1 and CCL5 inhibited the effect seen, suggesting these paracrine factors played a role in the elevated expression levels. Conclusion: MSCs clearly have a distinct paracrine effect on breast cancer epithelial cells, mediated at least in part through secretion of growth factors and chemokines. These factors play an important role in the metastatic cascade and may represent potential therapeutic targets to inhibit MSC-breast cancer interactions, helping to prevent the formation of bone metastases in cancer

Background. 70% of Breast Cancer patients develop metastatic bone deposits, predominantly spinal metasases. Adult Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are multiprogenitor stem cells found within the bone marow which have the ability to self renew and differentiate into multiple cell types. MSCs home specifically to tumour sites, highlighting their potential as delivery vehicles for therapeutic agents. However studies show they may also increase tumour metastatic potential. Aims. The aim of this study was to investigate interactions between MSCs and breast cancer cells to further elucidate their role in the tumour microenvironment and hence understand factors involved in stimulating the formation of bone metastases. Methods. MSCs harvested from the iliac crest of healthy volunteers were grown for collection of conditioned medium (CM), containing all factors secreted by the cells. Breast cancer cell lines (T47D, SK-BR-3, MDA-MB-231) were then cultured in MSC CM +/− antibodies to TGFβ, VEGF, MCP-1 and CCL5 for 72hrs. Cell proliferation was assessed using an Apoglow(r) assay and RNA harvested for analysis of changes in Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition specific gene expression : N-Cadherin, E-Cadherin, Vimentin, Twist, Snail. Results. A significant down regulation of breast cancer cell proliferation in the presence of MSC secreted factors was observed (p<0.05). There was a dramatic increase in expression of EMT specific genes in both cell lines following exposure to MSC-secreted factors. Inclusion of antibodies to TGF, VEGF, MCP-1 and CCL5 inhibited the effect seen, suggesting these paracrine factors played a role in the elevated expression levels. Conclusion. MSCs clearly have a distinct paracrine effect on breast cancer epithelial cells, mediated at least in part through secretion of growth factors and chemokines. These factors play an important role in the metastatic cascade and may represent potential therapeutic targets to inhibit MSC-breast cancer interactions, helping to prevent the formation of bone metastases in cancer

The most common reason for revision surgery of total hip replacements is aseptic loosening of implants secondary to osteolysis, which is caused by immune-mediated reactions to implant debris. These debris can cause pseudotumour formation. As revision surgery is associated with higher mortality and infection, it is important to understand the pro-inflammatory process to improve implant survival. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) has been shown to mediate immune responses to cobalt ions. Statin use in epidemiological studies has been associated with reduced risk of revision surgery. In-vitro studies have demonstrated the potential for statins to reduce orthopaedic debris-induced immune responses and there is evidence that statins can modulate TLR4 activity. This study investigates simvastatin's effect on orthopaedic biomaterial-mediated changes in protein expression of key inflammatory markers and soluble-ICAM-1 (sICAM-1), an angiogenic factor implicated in pseudotumour formation. Human macrophage THP-1 cells were pre-incubated with 50µM simvastatin for 2-hours or a vehicle control (VC), before being exposed to 0.75mM cobalt chloride, 50μm3 per cell zirconium oxide or LPS as a positive control, in addition to a further 24-hour co-incubation with 50µM simvastatin or VC. Interleukin −8 (IL-8), sICAM-1, chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), CCL3 and CCL4 protein secretion was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). GraphPad Prism 10 was used for statistical analysis including a one-way ANOVA. Pre-treatment with simvastatin significantly reduced LPS and cobalt-mediated IL-8 secretion (n=3) and sICAM-1 protein secretion (n=2) in THP-1 cells. Pre-treatment with simvastatin significantly reduced LPS-mediated but not cobalt ion-mediated CCL2 (n=3) and CCL3 protein (n=3) secretion in THP-1 cells. Simvastatin significantly reduced zirconium oxide-mediated CCL4 secretion (n=3). Simvastatin significantly reduced cobalt-ion mediated IL-8 and sICAM-1 protein secretion in THP-1 cells. This in-vitro finding demonstrates the potential for simvastatin to reduce recruitment of leukocytes which mediate the deleterious inflammatory processes driving implant failure

The signaling molecule prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), synthesized by cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), is immunoregulatory and reported to be essential for skeletal stem cell function. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used in osteoarthritis (OA) analgesia, but cohort studies suggested that long-term use may accelerate pathology. Interestingly, OA chondrocytes secrete high amounts of PGE2. Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) chondrogenesis is an in vitro OA model that phenocopies PGE2 secretion along with a hypertrophic OA-like cell morphology. Our aim was to investigate cause and effects of PGE2 secretion in MSC-based cartilage neogenesis and hypertrophy and identify molecular mechanisms responsible for adverse effects in OA analgesia. Human bone marrow-derived MSCs were cultured in chondrogenic medium with TGFβ (10ng/mL) and treated with PGE2 (1µM), celecoxib (COX-2 inhibitor; 0.5µM), AH23848/AH6809 (PGE2 receptor antagonists; 10µM), or DMSO as a control (n=3–4). Assessment criteria were proteoglycan deposition (histology), chondrocyte/hypertrophy marker expression (qPCR), and ALP activity. PGE2 secretion was measured (ELISA) after TGFβ withdrawal (from day 21, n=2) or WNT inhibition (2µM IWP-2 from day 14; n=3). Strong decrease in PGE2 secretion upon TGFβ deprivation or WNT inhibition identified both pathways as PGE2 drivers. Homogeneous proteoglycan deposition and COL2A1 expression analysis showed that MSC chondrogenesis was not compromised by any treatment. Importantly, hypertrophy markers (COL10A1, ALPL, SPP1, IBSP) were significantly reduced by PGE2 treatment, but increased by all inhibitors. Additionally, PGE2 significantly decreased ALP activity (2.9-fold), whereas the inhibitors caused a significant increase (1.3-fold, 1.7-fold, 1.8-fold). This identified PGE2 as an important inhibitor of chondrocyte hypertrophy. Although TGFβ and WNT are known pro-arthritic signaling pathways, they appear to induce a PGE2-mediated antihypertrophic effect that can counteract pathological cell changes in chondrocytes. Hampering this rescue mechanism via COX inhibition using NSAIDs thus risks acceleration of OA progression, indicating the need of OA analgesia adjustment

Total hip replacement (THR) is indicated for patients with osteoarthritis where conservative treatment has failed. Metal alloys used in THR implants such as cobalt-chromium (CoCr) have been known to cause pro-inflammatory reactions in patients, therefore leading to the need for costly revision surgery. This study therefore aimed to investigate the role of TLR4 in the activation of a human osteoblast model in response to CoCr particles in vitro. Human osteoblasts (MG-63 cell line) were seeded at a density of 100,000 cells and treated with 0.5, 5, 50mm3 CoCr particles per cell for 24-hours. Trypan blue and the XTT Cell Proliferation Kit II were then used in conjunction with the cells to assess CoCr-induced cytotoxicity. Cells were pre-treated with a commercially available TLR4-specific small molecule inhibitor (CLI-095) for 6 hours. Untreated cells were used as a negative control and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used as a positive control. Following treatment the cell supernatant was collected and used for enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) to measure the secretion of interleukin-8 (IL-8), CXCL10, and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Trypan blue and XTT analysis showed that there was no significant changes to cell viability or proliferation at any dose used of CoCr after 24 hours. There was a significant increase in protein secretion of IL-8 (p<0.001), CXCL10 (p<0.001), and IL-6 (p<0.001) in the cells which received the highest dosage of CoCr. This pro-inflammatory secretory response was ameliorated by TLR4 blockade (p<0.001). CoCr particles are not cytotoxic to osteoblasts but they do induce pro-inflammatory changes as characterised by increased secretion of chemokines IL-8, CXCL10, and IL-6. These responses occur via a TLR4-mediated pathway and upon inhibition they can be effectively ameliorated. This is particularly important as TLR4 could be a potential target for pharmacological intervention used in patients experiencing immunological reactions to metal implant debris

Critical size bone defects deriving from large bone loss are an unmet clinical challenge1. To account for disadvantages with clinical treatments, researchers focus on designing biological substitutes, which mimic endogenous healing through osteogenic differentiation promotion. Some studies have however suggested that this notion fails to consider the full complexity of native bone with respect to the interplay between osteoclast and osteoblasts, thus leading to the regeneration of less functional tissue2. The objective of this research is to assess the ability of our laboratory's previously developed 6-Bromoindirubin-3’-Oxime (BIO) incorporated guanosine diphosphate crosslinked chitosan scaffold in promoting multilineage differentiation of myoblastic C2C12 cells and monocytes into osteoblasts and osteoclasts1, 3, 4. BIO addition has been previously demonstrated to promote osteogenic differentiation in cell cultures5, but implementation of a co-culture model here is expected to encourage crosstalk thus further supporting differentiation, as well as the secretion of regulatory molecules and cytokines2. Biocompatibility testing of both cell types is performed using AlamarBlue for metabolic activity, and nucleic acid staining for distribution. Osteoblastic differentiation is assessed through quantification of ALP and osteopontin secretion, as well as osteocalcin and mineralization staining. Differentiation into osteoclasts is verified using SEM and TEM, qPCR, and TRAP staining. Cellular viability of C2C12 cells and monocytes was maintained when cultured separately in scaffolds with and without BIO for 21 days. Both scaffold variations showed a characteristic increase in ALP secretion from day 1 to 7, indicating early differentiation but BIO-incorporated sponges yielded higher values compared to controls. SEM and TEM imaging confirmed initial aggregation and fusion of monocytes on the scaffold's surface, but BIO addition appeared to result in smoother cell surfaces indicating a change in morphology. Late-stage differentiation assessment and co-culture work in the scaffold are ongoing, but initial results show promise in the material's ability to support multilineage differentiation. Acknowledgements: The authors would like to acknowledge the financial support of the Collaborative Health Research Program (CHRP) through CIHR and NSERC, as well as Canada Research Chair – Tier 1 in Regenerative Medicine and Nanomedicine, and the FRQ-S

Introduction and Objective. Total joint replacement is indicated for osteoarthritis where conservative treatment has failed, and in the UK the number of patients requiring hip and knee replacements is set to increase with an ageing population. Survival of total hip replacements is around 85% at 20 years with the most common reason for revision being aseptic loosening of the implant secondary to osteolysis, which is caused by immune-mediated reactions to implant debris. These debris can also cause pseudotumour formation. As revision surgery is associated with higher morbidity, mortality, infection rates, venous thromboembolism, resource demand and poorer subsequent function it is important to understand the mechanisms underlying the pro-inflammatory process to improve implant survival. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), an innate immune receptor, has been demonstrated to mediate deleterious immune responses by the Tyson-Capper research group, including inflammatory cytokine interleukin-8 (IL-8) secretion. Statin use in epidemiological studies has been associated with reduced overall risk of revision surgery after hip replacement. In-vitro studies have demonstrated the potential for statins to reduce orthopaedic debris-induced immune responses which can lead to osteolysis and pseudotumour formation. As literature from cardiological investigations demonstrate that statins can reduce the expression and responsiveness of TLR4, this could be an exciting mechanism to exploit to reduce the host immune response to orthopaedic wear debris, thereby improving implant survival by reducing immune mediated osteolysis. This ongoing study investigates simvastatin's effect on cobalt ion-mediated changes in gene and protein expression of interleukin-8 and soluble-ICAM-1 (sICAM-1) which is an angiogenic factor implicated in pseudotumour formation. Materials and Methods. TLR4-expressing human monocyte/macrophage THP-1 cells were pre-incubated with 50μM simvastatin for 2-hours or a vehicle control, before being exposed to exposed to 0.75mM cobalt chloride, in addition to a further 24-hour co-incubation with 50μM simvastatin or vehicle control. IL-8 protein and sICAM-1 secretion was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Gene expression changes were quantified by TaqMan-based real time polymerase chain reaction. Results. Pre-treatment with simvastatin significantly reduced cobalt-mediated IL-8 protein secretion (n=3) and sICAM-1 protein secretion (n=2) in THP-1 cells (p-value<0.0001). Work will be undertaken to determine changes in gene expression, the role of TLR4 in these responses and the effect of simvastatin on additional inflammatory markers. Conclusions. Simvastatin significantly reduces cobalt-ion mediated IL-8 and sICAM-1 protein secretion in THP-1 cells. This in-vitro finding demonstrates the potential for simvastatin to reduce recruitment of leukocytes which mediate the deleterious inflammatory processes driving aseptic loosening and pseudotumour formation

Aseptic inflammation is the main factor causing aseptic loosening of artificial joints. Studies have shown that inflammatory cells can activate STING (stimulator of interferon genes, STING) after being stressed. This study aims to explore the specific mechanism of STING in aseptic loosening of artificial joints, and provide new strategies for disease prevention. Titanium particles with a diameter of 1.2-10 μm were prepared to stimulate macrophages (RAW 264.7) to simulate the periprosthetic microenvironment. A lentiviral vector targeting the STING gene was designed and transfected into macrophages to construct a cell line targeting STING knockdown. The expression and secretion levels of TNF-α were detected by qPCR and ELISA, the activation levels of inflammatory pathways (NF-κB, IRF3, etc.) were detected by western blot, and the nucleus translocation of P65 and IRF3 was observed by cellular immunofluorescence. After titanium particles stimulated macrophages, qPCR and ELISA showed that the transcription and secretion levels of TNF-α were significantly increased. Western blot showed that titanium particle stimulation could increase the phosphorylation levels of NF-κB and IRF3 pathways. While knockdown of STING can significantly reduce titanium particle-induced TNF production, attenuate the activation levels of NF-κB and IRF3 pathways as well as the nucleus translocation of P65 and IRF3. Conclusions: STING positively regulates the level of inflammation in macrophages induced by titanium particles, and targeted inhibition of STING can reduce inflammation, which may delay the progression of aseptic loosening of artificial joints

Wear debris from implant interfaces is the major factor leading to periprosthetic osteolysis. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) populate the intimal lining of the synovium and are in direct contact with wear debris. This study aimed to elucidate the effect of Ti particles as wear debris on human FLSs and the mechanism by which they might participate in the bone remodeling process during periprosthetic osteolysis. FLSs were isolated from synovial tissue from patients, and the condition medium (CM) was collected after treating FLSs with sterilized Ti particles. The effect of CM was analyzed for the induction of osteoclastogenesis or any effect on osteogenesis and signaling pathways. The results demonstrated that Ti particles could induce activation of the NFκB signaling pathway and induction of COX-2 and inflammatory cytokines in FLSs. The amount of RANL in the conditioned medium collected from Ti particle-stimulated FLSs (Ti CM) showed the ability to stimulate osteoclast formation. The Ti CM also suppressed the osteogenic initial and terminal differentiation markers for osteoprogenitors, such as alkaline phosphate activity, matrix mineralization, collagen synthesis, and expression levels of Osterix, Runx2, collagen 1α, and bone sialoprotein. Inhibition of the WNT and BMP signaling pathways was observed in osteoprogenitors after the treatment with the Ti CM. In the presence of the Ti CM, exogenous stimulation by WNT and BMP signaling pathways failed to stimulate osteogenic activity in osteoprogenitors. Induced expression of sclerostin (SOST: an antagonist of WNT and BMP signaling) in Ti particletreated FLSs and secretion of SOST in the Ti CM were detected. Neutralization of SOST in the Ti CM partially restored the suppressed WNT and BMP signaling activity as well as the osteogenic activity in osteoprogenitors. Our results reveal that wear debris-stimulated FLSs might affect bone loss by not only stimulating osteoclastogenesis but also suppressing the bone-forming ability of osteoprogenitors. In the clinical setting, targeting FLSs for the secretion of antagonists like SOST might be a novel therapeutic approach for preventing bone loss during inflammatory osteolysis

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have potent immunomodulatory and regenerative effects via soluble factors. One approach to improve stem cell-based therapies is encapsulation of MSC in hydrogels based on natural proteins such as collagen and fibrin, which play critical roles in bone healing. In this work, we comparatively studied the influence of collagen and fibrin hydrogels of varying stiffness on the paracrine interactions established by MSC with macrophages and osteoblasts. Type I collagen and fibrin hydrogels in a similar stiffness range loaded with MSC from donants were prepared by modifying the protein concentration. Viability and morphology of MSC in hydrogels as well as cell migration rate from the matrices were determined. Paracrine actions of MSC in hydrogels were evaluated in co-cultures with human macrophages from healthy blood donors or with osteoblasts from bone explants of patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Lower matrix stiffness resulted in higher MSC viability and migration. Cell migration rate from collagen hydrogels was higher than from fibrin matrices. The secretion of the immunomodulatory factors interleukin-6 (IL-6) and prostaglandin E. 2. (PGE. 2. ) by MSC in both collagen and fibrin hydrogels increased with increasing matrix stiffness. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) secretion by macrophages cultured on collagen hydrogels was lower than on fibrin matrices. Interestingly, higher collagen matrix stiffness resulted in lower secreted TNF-α while the trend was opposite on fibrin hydrogels. In all cases, TNF-α levels were lower when macrophages were cultured on hydrogels containing MSC than on empty gels, an effect partially mediated by PGE. 2. Finally, mineralization capacity of osteoblasts co-cultured with MSC in hydrogels increased with increasing matrix stiffness, although this effect was more notably for collagen hydrogels. Paracrine interactions established by MSC in hydrogels with macrophages and osteoblasts are regulated by matrix composition and stiffness

Early identification of patients at risk for impaired tendon healing and corresponding novel therapeutic approaches are urgent medical needs. This study aimed to clarify the role of CD3+ T-cells during acute Achilles tendon (AT) healing. Blood and hematoma aspirate were taken from 26 patients during AT reconstruction, and additional blood samples were obtained during clinical follow-up at 6, 26 and 52 weeks after surgery. T-cell subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry using CD3, CD4, CD8, CD11a, CD57 and CD28 antibodies. Clinical follow-up included functional tests, MRI assessments, and subjective questionnaires. In vitro, the functional behavior of patient-derived tenocytes was investigated in co-cultures with autologous unpolarized CD4+ or CD8+ T-cells, or IFNy-polarized CD8+ or IL17-polarized CD4+ Tcells (n=5-6). This included alterations in gene expression (qPCR), MMP secretion (ELISA), migration rate (scratch wound healing assay) or contractility (collagen gels). Analysis revealed that elevated CD4+ T-cell levels and reduced CD8+ T-cell levels (increased CD4/CD8 ratio) in hematoma aspirate and pre-operative blood were associated with inferior clinical outcomes regarding pain and function at 26 and 52 weeks. Increased levels of CD8+ -memory T-cell subpopulations in blood 6 weeks after surgery were associated with less tendon elongation. In vitro, tenocytes showed increased MMP1/2/3 levels and collagen III/I ratio in co-culture with unpolarized and/or IL17-polarized CD4+ T-cells compared to unpolarized CD8+ T-cells. This coincided with increased IL17 receptor expression in tenocytes co-cultured with CD4+ T-cells. Exposure of tenocytes to IL17-polarized CD4+ T-cells decreased their migration rate and increased their matrix contractility, especially compared to IFNy-polarized CD8+ T-cells. The CD4+ /CD8+ T-cell ratio could serve as prognostic marker for early identification of patients with impaired AT healing potential. Local reduction of CD4+ T-cell levels or their IL17 secretion represent a potential therapeutic approach to improve AT healing and to prevent weakening of the tendon ECM