Can the meniscus affect the nature of a chondrocyte?

Abstract

It is well understood that proper joint kinematics and loading are important factors in maintaining the health of the articular cartilage of the knee. This state of normal, physiologic loading facilitates a balance between anabolic and catabolic processes resulting in low level, homeostatic cartilage matrix turn-over and remodeling. In this way articular cartilage can function throughout an entire lifetime without loss of its load bearing or lubricating characteristics. However, situations that dramatically alter knee joint biomechanics, such as chronic disuse or overuse[superscript 1-4], anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury[superscript 5,6], or damage to the fibrocartilaginous menisci[superscript 7-11], can result in progressive cartilage degradation and strongly correlate with the onset of osteoarthritis (OA).