Cartilage debris increases the expression of chondrodestructive tumor necrosis factor-alpha by articular chondrocytes.

PURPOSE: To determine if cartilage particles increased the expression of TNF-alpha by articular chondrocytes.

TYPE OF STUDY: In vitro experiment.

METHODS

Articular chondrocytes were obtained from patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis (n = 3) and from patients undergoing below-knee amputation for peripheral vascular disease (n = 3). Chondrocytes were then incubated with and without cartilage particles at a concentration of 5 microg/10(5) cells for 24 hours. TNF-alpha levels were then determined using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Both normal and osteoarthritic chondrocytes had low baseline expression of TNF-alpha under standard cell culture conditions. Expression was markedly increased in response to incubation with cartilage particles, and was statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Cartilage debris in the traumatized and osteoarthritic joint may increase the concentration of TNF-alpha in the joint, contributing to joint symptoms and cartilage destruction. Arthroscopic debridement and lavage may improve symptoms by washing these harmful components from the joint.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.