Osteoarthritis year in review: genetics, genomics, epigenetics

Abstract

Summary Objective In this review, we have highlighted the advances over the past year in genetics, genomics and epigenetics in the field of osteoarthritis (OA). Methods A literature search of PubMed was performed using the criteria: “osteoarthritis” and one of the following terms “genetic(s), genomic(s), epigenetic(s), polymorphism, noncoding ribonucleic acid (RNA), microRNA, long noncoding RNA, lncRNA, circular RNA, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), single cell sequencing, transcriptomics, or deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation between April 01, 2020 and April 30, 2021. Results In total we identified 765 unique publications, which eventually reduced to 380 of relevance to the field as judged by two assessors. Many of these studies included multiple search terms. We summarised advances relating to genetics, functional genetics, genomics and epigenetics, focusing on our personal key papers during the year. Conclusions This year few studies have identified new genetic variants contributing to OA susceptibility, but a focus has been on refining risk loci or their functional validation. The use of new technologies together with investigating the cross-talk between multiple tissue types, greater sample sizes and/or better patient classification (OA subtypes) will continue to increase our knowledge of disease mechanisms and progress towards understanding and treating OA.

Novel Epigenetic Modulation Chitosan-Based Scaffold as a Promising Bone Regenerative Material

“…In response to environmental and metabolic activities, epigenetic processes regulate the modulation of gene expression via microRNA regulation, DNA methylation, or histone modification [ 28 , 37 ]. Furthermore, previous studies have proven that TSA, an epigenetic modifier has a beneficial effect on bone repair and regeneration.…”

Cartilage Homeostasis and Osteoarthritis

“…Recently, there has been a growing interest in competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs), such as circular RNAs (circRNAs) and long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), which act as miRNA sponges, although the physiological significance of ceRNAs is not well understood. Several ncRNAs have been reported to be involved in cartilage development and homeostasis [ 66 ].…”

Role of GDF15/MAPK14 Axis in Chondrocyte Senescence as a Novel Senomorphic Agent in Osteoarthritis

“…The most typical symptoms of osteoarthritis are mechanical pain, joint abnormalities and swelling, limitation of range of movement, joint stiffness, and motion cracks. Flaring phases with dominant inflammation, which are commonly characterized by joint swelling, a fast escalating pain, discomfort at rest, and increased stiffness, might impede the natural development of OA [2,11,12]. According this study, we demonstrated the role of GDF15 in OA.…”

“…Chondrocytes are the only cells found in the cartilage tissue and play a crucial role in maintaining cartilage stability. Chondrocytes undergo various alterations throughout the onset and progression of OA, including changes in their proliferation, viability, and secretion [2]. OA is considered a multifaceted illness affecting the entire joint rather than only the cartilage or synovium.…”