Osteoarthritis biomarker responses and cartilage adaptation to exercise: A review of animal and human models

Abstract

Regular physical activity has been suggested as having both preventive and therapeutic benefits for individuals with osteoarthritis (OA). However, evidence of whether exercise and which type of exercise constitutes a benefit or a risk in the development and progression of OA remains debatable. This may be due to the evaluation of the effect of physical activity or new disease‐modifying OA drugs which is currently based on radiographic criteria (eg, joint space width) and the lack of correlation with clinical signs and symptoms (eg, pain and loss of function). Moreover, OA typically manifests itself as changes within the joint space and subchondral bone as well as the whole joint structure, including progressive degradation of cartilage, menisci, ligaments, and synovial inflammation. Biomarkers are being developed to quantify joint remodeling and disease progression notably involving the articular cartilage and synovial fluid. The primary purpose of this review was to evaluate the current literature and to provide further insight based on OA biomarkers and the role physical activity plays in the management of OA. Osteoarthritis biomarkers together with radiographic imaging evidence will ideally guide healthcare providers to incorporate exercise recommendations into clinical management and offer patients evidence‐based and individually tailored exercise prescriptions.

Gut–Joint Axis: The Role of Physical Exercise on Gut Microbiota Modulation in Older People with Osteoarthritis

“…Physical exercise plays a fundamental role in the prevention and treatment of several chronic diseases including OA [68]; and it is recommended by several guidelines as a first line intervention in the management of this condition [69][70][71]. Pathogenic mechanisms of the 'gut-joint axis' and the potential therapeutic role of physical exercise combined with diet and probiotics are depicted by Figure 1.…”

Correlation between osteoarthritis and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 expression: a meta-analysis

“…There are currently no curative treatments for OA, resulting in heavy economic burden on patients, families, and society. Additionally, the molecular mechanisms of OA are unclear, and new and effective biomarkers are urgently needed to improve methods for the diagnosis and prevention of OA occurrence and progression [ 4 ]. Inflammatory mechanisms are important factors promoting the development of OA.…”

Physical Activity Prevents Cartilage Degradation: A Metabolomics Study Pinpoints the Involvement of Vitamin B6

“…Physical activity can prevent cartilage disorders and it has been suggested as a therapeutic tool for individuals with osteoarthritis (OA) [29]. Andersson et al reported that COMP serum levels increase after physical activity in OA patients [30].…”