Cytokines and Chemokines Involved in Osteoarthritis Pathogenesis

Osteoarthritis is a common cause of disability worldwide. Although commonly referred to as a disease of the joint cartilage, osteoarthritis affects all joint tissues equally. The pathogenesis of this degenerative process is not completely understood; however, a low-grade inflammation leading to an imbalance between anabolic and katabolic processes is a well-established factor. The complex network of cytokines regulating these processes and cell communication has a central role in the development and progression of osteoarthritis. Concentrations of both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines were found to be altered depending on the osteoarthritis stage and activity. In this review, we analyzed individual cytokines involved in the immune processes with an emphasis on their function in osteoarthritis.

Automated summary

Osteoarthritis is a common cause of disability worldwide, affecting all joint tissues equally. The pathogenesis involves low-grade inflammation leading to an imbalance between anabolic and catabolic processes. The complex network of cytokines regulating these processes plays a central role in the development and progression of osteoarthritis, with concentrations of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines varying based on disease stage and activity levels.