NITEGE-Expression in Meniscal Matrix. A New, Immunohistochemical Marker of Meniscal-Tissue Degeneration

Abstract

Background. No marker reflecting the pathobiology of meniscal degeneration (MD) is established so far. NITEGE is a hexapeptide fragments produced when aggrecan is cleaved. Methods. In vitro IL-1 exposition of bovine menisci (n = 4) caused extracellular NITEGE deposits detected by immunofluorescence. A retrospective immunohistochemical analysis of (n = 60) patients after meniscectomy for NITEGE deposits was performed. MD was graded as follows: no/little (grade 0/1), medium (grade 2) or severe (grade 3). Results. NITEGE deposits in areas of degeneration were demonstrated in 55% of the patients with grade 2 or 3 MD (PPV & specificity 100%), while no extracellular NITEGE deposits in the menisci with grade 0 or 1 MD could be detected. Age correlated with NITEGE deposits (r = 0.46) and grade of MD (r = 0.48). NITEGEpositive cell density and size were significantly higher close to a tear (p < 0, 001). Interpretation. Extracellular NITEGE deposits may be regarded as markers of medium and severe MD and might be used in diagnostic histopathology.

Fang‐Ji‐Huang‐Qi‐Tang Attenuates Degeneration of Early‐Stage KOA Mice Related to Promoting Joint Lymphatic Drainage Function

“…Inhibiting the degradation of type II collagen and aggrecan may play an active role in the treatment of KOA. We adopted immunohistochemical staining to detect the expression of collagen type II in the cartilage of knee joint [25]. Immunohistochemical analysis Correlation analysis of OARSI score with lymphatic drain function and type II collagen area (d).…”