Restoration of Joint Motion by rhPRG4 in Mutant Mice that Recapitulate CACP Syndrome in Humans

Student Classification

Sophomore

Faculty Mentor

Sharon Wellman

Department

Department of Chemical, Biological, and Bioengineering; Bioengineering

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

Fall 2018

Disciplines

Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering

Abstract

The CACP syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive condition caused by mutations in the PRG4 gene, which encodes a lubricating glycoprotein present in the synovial fluid as well as the surface of articular cartilage. At the present time, there is no cure or specific treatment for CACP syndrome. The skeletal component of the CACP disease begins at birth or early adolescence and worsens with age. Lubricin (rhPRG4) is a surface-active glycoprotein that plays a key role in preventing cartilage damage in healthy synovial joints. The purpose of this study is to investigate if joint functionality percentages are altered from the diagnosis of lubricin (rhPRG4) in the synovial cavity located in the knees and understand gait disturbance in an animal model of CACP syndrome. Current work in the lab is determined to seek if lubricin will increase the joint functionality percentages of the mice as well as eliminating any foreseen discomfort and hardship related towards gait. A machine called DigiGait was used to show the mice's gait parameters. Before receiving the injection, the Prg4-/- mice were placed on the machine’s treadmill for control purposes. Areas of focus range from changes in stride length to paw angel percentiles. The same Prg4-/- mice were injected with lubricin in both of their knee joints and placed back on the DigiGait. This procedure was repeated study exactly how long the lubricin is effectively benefiting the mice’s gait. Each possible treatment data phase was analyzed via calculated percentiles, always comparing new gait activity to the control’s gait activity. There has been an increase and a decrease in some of the parameters, with the mice showing better strength, control, and authority of their synovial joints after the injection. This study has significant implications into understanding the development of CACP syndrome, as well as, articulating a movement dedicated towards increasing the healthfulness of those affected by CACP syndrome. Preserving the functionality of the human body is essential, and it is important to understand what else can be done scientifically to keep the joints of the human body feeling marvelous and valuable.

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