Genetic transcriptional regulation profiling of cartilage reveals pathogenesis of osteoarthritis.

Summary: Osteoarthritis, often called "wear and tear" arthritis, affects millions of people, but we still don't fully understand the genetics behind it. To solve this puzzle, scientists looked deep into the cartilage of 204 patients with osteoarthritis. They mapped out exactly how tiny changes in DNA affect the way genes work in joint tissue. Through this massive mapping effort, they discovered 19 brand-new genes linked to the disease! They also found exactly how certain DNA changes alter the way cells behave, leading to joint damage. This detailed map of cartilage genetics gives doctors exciting new clues for future treatments to stop arthritis in its tracks.