Association of inflammatory, genetic, and epigenetic markers with Kellgren-Lawrence grading in post-traumatic osteoarthritis of knee: A protocol.

BACKGROUND

Post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) occurs due to cartilage degeneration caused by injuries like bone fractures, ligament tears, and soft tissue injuries in and around the joint. It is diagnosed by X-ray in the later stages. Early diagnosis may be possible by analyzing biochemical and molecular markers, facilitating early management.

AIM: To characterize inflammatory, genetic, and epigenetic markers that aid in the diagnosis and prognosis of knee PTOA.

METHODS

The prospective cohort study is conducted at a tertiary care hospital, India. The study includes 140 participants: 70 (controls), and 70 (cases) sustained trauma to knee. Written informed consent is obtained. Serum interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, IL-10, cartilage oligomeric matrix protein, transforming growth factor-β1, matrix metalloproteinase-13, and oxidized-LDL and urine C-terminal cross-linked telopeptides of type II collagen are analyzed by ELISA. Genetic and epigenetic studies are done. Ethics approval is obtained. Statistical analysis by SPSS software version 16.

RESULTS

Biomarkers will be correlated with the X-ray grading as per the Kellgren-Lawrence scale.

CONCLUSION

These mediators can be potential markers to assess the disease burden, prognosis, and severity. They may also help as therapeutic targets to customize personalized therapy.