Expression level of UCMA as a candidate molecular target in osteoarthritis

Comparison of the protective effect of the upper zone of the growth plate and unique cartilage matrix-associated protein with hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids on an experimental rat osteoarthritis model

“…6,7 The upper zone of the growth plate and unique cartilage matrix-associated protein (UCMA), a member of vitamin K-dependent proteins, has been reported to be associated with the pathogenesis of some diseases, including OA, vascular calcification, and kidney diseases. [7][8][9][10][11] UCMA, highly synthesized in osteoarthritic cartilage, might serve as an inhibitor for aggrecanase activity, which is involved in cartilage degeneration. 12 In a mouse model of OA induced by medial meniscus destabilization, proteoglycan loss, cartilage damage, and chondrocyte cell death have been shown to be increased in UCMA-deficient mice.…”