Abstract

Because chondrocytes are the only resident cells in articular cartilage, the steady state of these cells is important for the maintenance of joint function. In various osteoarthritis diseases, chondrocytes undergo a series of pathophysiologic changes, leading to the loss of chondrocytes and the degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM). This study found that Cytoplasmic localized histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) is up-regulated on the articular surface in a destabilization of the medial meniscus–induced mouse osteoarthritis model. Because HDAC6 is highly related to the acetylation of tubulin and the function of the microtubule system is closely related to material transport and signal transduction, the relationship between the expression level or activity of HDAC6 and the fate of chondrocytes in vitro and in vivo were confirmed. Primary chondrocytes overexpressing DNA- HDAC6 with plasmid were constructed in vitro , and HDAC6 inhibitor Tubastatin A was selected to inhibit HDAC6 enzyme activity in vivo and in vitro . Subsequently, mitochondrial spatial arrangement, degradation of ECM, and pathological changes in joint were defined. The results indicate that overexpression of HDAC6 causes mitochondrial dysfunction and promotes reactive oxygen species production, leading to degradation of ECM. Tubastatin A treatment after osteoarthritis ameliorates the degradation of cartilage and improves the microenvironment and function of the joint. HDAC6 may be targeted to treat osteoarthritis.