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Moghtadaei M, Khadem M. Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Cartilage Degeneration in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Narrative Mini-Review. JROS 2026; 13 (2)
URL: http://jros.iums.ac.ir/article-1-2317-en.html

Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Cartilage Degeneration in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Narrative Mini-Review

Mehdi Moghtadaei¹

, Mehryar Khadem²

1- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Hazrat-e-Rasool General Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2- Bone and Joint Reconstruction Research Center, Department of Orthopedics, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Abstract: (4 Views)

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a complex degenerative joint disease characterized by progressive cartilage degradation, subchondral bone remodeling, and chronic low-grade inflammation. Recent advances in basic science have transformed the understanding of KOA from a purely mechanical disorder into a multifactorial disease driven by molecular and cellular mechanisms. This narrative mini-review summarizes current insights into cartilage degeneration in KOA, focusing on inflammatory signaling pathways, extracellular matrix breakdown, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and chondrocyte senescence. These interconnected processes highlight potential therapeutic targets for disease-modifying interventions and provide a critical link between basic science and clinical practice.

Keywords: Knee osteoarthritis, Cartilage degradation, Extracellular matrix, Signaling pathways

Type of Study: Review Paper | Subject: Knee surgery
Received: 2026/05/3 | Accepted: 2026/05/4 | Published: 2026/07/19

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