Figure 2

The structure of the articular joint and targeted arthritis therapeutics. Multifaceted components such as ligaments, menisci, and articular surfaces of the articular joint confer upon the joint compression-resistance and load-bearing properties. Arthritis may ensue if one or more components are compromised. Chondrocytes (dark blue) and synoviocytes (light blue) are a source of cytokine production and aggrecanase activity; inflammatory cytokines are found in synovial fluid of arthritic joints. Emerging therapeutics such as statins may suppress inflammatory cytokine activity in synovial fluid, thereby potentially inhibiting cartilage degradation mediated by ADAMTS4 and ADAMTS5. Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biological agents, corticosteroids, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also prevent cartilage destruction indirectly by reducing inflammation. ADAMTS, A Disintegrin-like And Metalloproteinase domain with Thrombospondin-1 repeats; IL, interleukin; TNF-α, tumor necrosis factor-alpha.