Changing the Pressure: Static Weight-Bearing Analysis in the Dunkin Hartley Guinea Pig Reveals Intravenous Treatment Effects in Relation to Osteoarthritis
Category: Research Poster
Author(s): Hailey Coyle
Presenter(s): Hailey Coyle
Mentors(s): Maryam Afzali
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease affecting individuals over 60, especially in the knee joints. OA occurs when cartilage and synovial fluid in the knee deteriorate, eventually leading to bone-on-bone contact. This results in pain, inflammation, and decreased mobility. Many studies aim to better understand OA using animal models. The Hartley guinea pig is known for developing rapid, spontaneous OA (particularly in the knee) around 5 months of age. This is a well-characterized model as its knee joint and structure are similar to those of humans, making it easier to test and evaluate potential therapeutic approaches. In this study, we are evaluating an intravenous (IV) drug delivery system that releases an anabolic factor expected to benefit joints. Animals at 2 months of age, prior to development of OA, were randomly assigned into one of four treatment groups (no treatment, IV saline control, IV delivery system control, and IV treatment), to determine whether the IV therapy could delay or halt the progression of disease. We are currently evaluating the treatment effectiveness by measuring the static weight-bearing pressure in both hind limbs, which provides an assessment of clinical signs associated with OA. To date, animals that received IV administration are bearing significantly more weight on their hind limbs than the three control groups. Final outcomes will determine whether any structural improvements (via microcomputed tomography and joint histopathology) are associated with this potential therapy. If successful, this proprietary approach may enter Phase 1 clinical trials within the next two years.