Lectin-like oxidized low density lipoprotein receptor 1 (LOX-1) expression in human articular chondrocytes

Abstract

Objective To investigate the involvement of oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and the expression of its receptor lectin-like oxidized low density lipoprotein receptor 1 (LOX-1) in osteoarthritis, by determining the ox-LDL in synovial fluid and the expression of LOX-1 mRNA and protein in osteoarthritic as well as normal cartilage. In addition, tire effect of ox-LDL our chondrocyte viability and the effect of ascorbic acid (a well-known anti-oxidant) on LOX-1 expression were studied. Methods Fifteen patients were included in the study. Osteoarthritic articular cartilage was obtained from two distinct locations in the knee (n = 10) and hip (n = 5), specifically from weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing areas of the sane joints. Five individuals were used as controls. mRNA and protein eypression were studied by RT-PCR and immunofluorescence, respectively. Ox-LDL was measured in the synovial flit id and in paired serum samples from the patients using the ELISA method. Results Ox-LDL was detected in the synovial fluid and its receptor LOX-1 was detected in cartilage from both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing areas, whereas no LOX-1 expression was found in normal cartilage. Ox-LDL reduced chondrocyte viability in cell cultures. while the addition of ascorbic acid to osteoarthritic chondrocytes resulted in a decrease in LOX-1 mRNA expression. Conclusion The detection of LOX-1 mRNA and protein expression in osteoarthritic cartilage drawn from both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing regions of the same patients suggest that LOX-1 may be involved in the progression and pathogenesis of osteoarthritis.