3D profiling of mouse epiphyses across ages reveals new potential imaging biomarkers of early spontaneous osteoarthritis

• DOI: 10.1111/joa.13834
• Publication Date: 2023-02-11T09:59:54Z
• Authors: Eva C. Herbst; Lucinda A. E. Evans; Alessandro A. Felder; Behzad Javaheri; Andrew A. Pitsill...
• Keywords: X-ray microtomography; Strain (injury)

Abstract Worldwide research groups and funding bodies have highlighted the need for imaging biomarkers to predict osteoarthritis (OA) progression treatment effectiveness. Changes in trabecular architecture, which can be detected with non‐destructive high‐resolution CT imaging, may reveal OA before apparent articular surface damage. Here, we analysed tibial epiphyses of STR/Ort (OA‐prone) CBA (healthy, parental control) mice at different ages characterise effects mouse age strain on multiple bony parameters. We isolated epiphyseal components using a semi‐automated method, measured total volume; cortical bone, bone marrow space volumes; mean thicknesses; volume relative interior (trabecular BV/TV); degree anisotropy. Using two‐way ANOVA (significance level ≤0.05), confirmed that all these parameters change significantly age, two strains were volumes, had higher volumes lower As reflect markedly divergent predispositions, potential as bioimaging markers monitor susceptibility progression. Additionally, significant age/strain interaction identified volume, BV/TV. These interactions confirm growth patterns throughout life, some emerge prior onset. Our findings not only propose valuable OA, but also provide insight into ageing 3D architecture profiles skeletal biology underlying onset development age‐related mice.