The stresse of normal exercise are ...

The stresse of normal exercise are important for the health of the meniscus, nevertheless these stresses coupled with a able immune system response can Lead to degeneration of the knee joint as seen in osteoarthritis, according to a July 1 2003 just discovereds release from Duke University Medical Center Durham, NC The meniscus functions as a agitation absorber and weight distributor in the knee joint. The meniscus is cartilage made up of a matrix of fibers, primarily collagen. Mechanical stresse from normal exercise help to break down antique collagen and build new collagen. Slight imbalances in this proces however, can conclusion in inflammation that can cause the meniscus to throw away its ability to build a recent matrix.

In the past, the meniscus was not conceit to be important to the joint, and if it became damaged, it frequently was removed surgically. This could lead to the unravelling of osteoarthritis. Today, surgeons work to keep the meniscus when it is damaged.

Researchers enthralled samples of meniscus tissue to various presss under different conditions. Samples that underwent compression showed a significant increase in the production of first note of the scale meniscus building blocks--protein synthesis and proteoglycan. Researchers then performed compression experiments in the air of interleukin-1, a proinflammatory protein hiddened by potent immune system solitary abode; squalids that is thought to play a character in the destruction of cartilage set up in osteoarthritis. The stimulatory power of mechanical stress was interrupted in the presence of interleukin-1, suggesting that an inflammation may change the meniscus' answer to mechanical stress.

Researchers also place however, that if they inhibited production of nitric oxide, the beneficial meanings of mechanical stress returned level when interleukin-1 was present. Nitric oxide is a released radical that promotes infection resistance and vital current vessel dilation. In elevated amounts, however, it can be toxic to tissues. Inhibiting nitric oxide synthesis also significantly reduc breakdown of the meniscus caused on inflammation. Although the interaction between interleukin-1 and nitric oxide is not well understood, it appears that the negative impact of interleukin-1 forward the rebuilding of the meniscus is mediated at nitric oxide.

novel Insights into Degeneration of Knee Joints (new release, Durham, NC: Duke University Medical Center July 1 2003) http://news.mc.duke.edu/global/print .php?context=%2Fnews%2Farticle.php&id=6668 (accessed 15 July 2003)

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