“Although we observed a variety of effects of A2AR loss on chondrocytes and cartilage, it is likely that the loss of A2AR in other cells present in the synovium contributed to the development of OA,” state the authors.
The investigators also performed experiments in PTOA rats. Specifically, they replaced adenosine via intra-articular injection of a liposomal formulation that contained adenosine. The injection prolonged the presence of adenosine in the joint and prevented the development of OA in the rats. The authors concluded their paper by suggesting that drugs that target the adenosine A2A receptors and promote adenosine repletion may be useful in the treatment and/or prevention of OA.
Lara C. Pullen, PhD, is a medical writer based in the Chicago area.
Reference
- Corciulo C, Lendhey M, Wilder T, et al. Endogenous adenosine maintains cartilage homeostasis and exogenous adenosine inhibits osteoarthritis progression. Nat Commun. 2017 May 11;8:15019. doi: 10.1038/ncomms15019.