Spatial MALDI-MSI of osteoarthritic knee joints reveals bone-derived protein signatures linked to disease progression. These candidates will be validated in larger patient cohorts and OA mouse models for biomarker discovery.
Researchers used advanced imaging to uncover early molecular changes in bone that may enable earlier diagnosis of osteoarthritis
CHENGDU, SICHUAN, CHINA, February 10, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Osteoarthritis often goes undetected until cartilage damage is advanced, limiting treatment options. A new study shows that molecular changes in subchondral bone occur earlier and can signal disease progression before cartilage loss. Using spatial mass spectrometry imaging and synovial fluid proteomics, researchers identified bone-derived protein signatures beneath intact cartilage that were also…