Article

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of using
phase-contrast radiography to detect early changes in articular cartilage in a
mouse model of osteoarthritis. DESIGN: An iodoacetate-induced mouse model of
osteoarthritis was used. Mice with iodoacetate-induced osteoarthritis were
euthanized at 1 and 2 wks after injection. Specimens were obtained by sectioning
mouse tissue into 5-mm-thick slices. Sections were examined using synchrotron
x-rays from the 7B2 beamline at the Pohang Light Source. Magnified
microradiographic images, obtained by phase-contrast radiography, were used to
identify changes in articular cartilage and the subchondral bone. RESULTS:
Refraction-enhanced phase-contrast radiography enabled detailed microscopic and
macroscopic observation of articular cartilage by a noninvasive technique.
Detailed microscopic images revealed partially damaged articular cartilage,
containing an irregular trilaminar zone, at 1 wk after injection. At 2 wks after
injection, a necrotic cleft was clearly visible, along with collapse of the
trilaminar zones. Shrunken chondrocytes and chondrocyte clusters of variable
sizes were also observed. CONCLUSIONS: Phase-contrast radiography is a feasible
technique for the early detection of osteoarthritis and is capable of detecting
microstructural changes in articular cartilage.

Langue : ANGLAIS