Quantifying Extracellular Matrix Changes in Osteoarthritic Human Cartilage and Subchondral Bone using Raman Microspectroscopy

Description

In this video presentation, Adeelah Che discusses research focused on quantifying extracellular matrix changes in osteoarthritic human cartilage and subchondral bone using Raman microspectroscopy. She explains that osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease, impacting multiple tissues within the osteochondral unit, particularly cartilage and subchondral bone. The progression of OA brings about biochemical changes that current clinical techniques such as radiography and MRI are unable to detect until severe stages, necessitating a more sensitive method for early detection, which Raman spectroscopy provides.



Raman spectroscopy is highlighted as an imaging technique that utilizes light scattering based on molecular vibrational frequencies to analyze biological tissues. Adeelah describes the methodology used in her study, including the collection of OA tibial plateaus from total knee replacement surgeries, classified by severity using ICRS grades. Raman spectral analysis revealed significant differences in collagen and mineral peaks across various severity levels, with more severe cases showing reduced cartilage thickness and increased mineralization.



The study findings indicate a trend of cartilage degradation and changes in subchondral bone properties correlated with OA severity, such as increased elastic modulus. Finally, Adeelah emphasizes the potential of Raman spectroscopy in facilitating the identification of matrix and mineral changes associated with osteoarthritis, while acknowledging contributions from collaborating universities and her research team.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-221034

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