More than 9 million French per year consult their doctor for osteoarthritis problems. It would also be the first cause of consultations after cardiovascular diseases in developed countries. But Canadian researchers have developed a drug capable of stopping the progression of the disease. In a study published on October 4 in the review Annals of the Rheumatic Diseasesthey explain that they have created a substance that blocks the molecule involved in osteoarthritis of the knee and spine.
microRNA-181a-5p
Osteoarthritis is characterized by the degradation of the cartilage of the joints. Scientists have thus focused on the molecule responsible for this degeneration. To do this, they used several experimental models, including animal models and samples of human tissue from people suffering from osteoarthritis.
In this way, they identified microRNA-181a-5p as an essential mediator involved in the destruction of the cartilage of the lumbar facet. This molecule is in fact a messenger RNA, that is to say an intermediary between cells, produced by a gene. In the event of aggression, this messenger RNA is responsible for activating inflammation and blocking the cartilage cells, the chondrocytes.
Towards a new targeted treatment
Once this molecule was identified, the researchers developed a “blocker” called “antisense”, specific to this messenger RNA. They were finally able to stop joint destruction in mice. Promising results, because there was currently no treatment to cure the pathology, only to relieve the symptoms. Responsible for pain in the joints, the disease can be disabling on a daily basis. It is also chronic, so that once installed, it lasts for life.
Scientists must now carry out tests in humans to determine if the drug is safe, and to identify what dosage it would be necessary to ingest for it to be effective. They must also develop a method for the “blocker” to be injected directly into the joints of the knee and spine.
Read also :
- Osteoarthritis or arthritis? We teach you to tell the difference
- Osteoarthritis: a questionnaire to better target pain in patients
