Scientists at the University of Illinois studied the breakdown of hyaluronic acid from arthritis and the mechanical effects of these changes on lubrication and subsequent wear and tear on joints. Research published in the journal Biointerphases.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease caused by the breakdown of cartilage. Although the exact mechanism of cartilage destruction in osteoarthritis is unknown, mechanical stress is believed to be the main cause.
This is facilitated by changes in the composition of the joint fluid (joint lubrication): the concentration and molecular weight of hyaluronic acid decreases. These symptoms can be used to diagnose the disease.
In a new study, scientists have found that the concentration and molecular weight of hyaluronic acid play a role in how a lubricant interacts with a variety of surfaces. Therefore, with arthritis, the ability of lubricating components to bind to the cartilage surface in the form of a film is reduced. Scientists suggest that the absence of this film may exacerbate wear and tear on the cartilage surface.