Abstract
In joint lubrication, it has been theoretically and experimentally ascertained that fluid film plays a major role in most physiological motion. Intraarticular administration of hyaluronan (HA) has been widely utilized for osteoarthritis (OA) and its viscoelasticity means that it is undoubtedly beneficial as it can supplement the lubricating properties of synovial fluid (SF). Furthermore, boundary lubrication helps to protect the articular surfaces, depending on the severity of the rubbing condition. Recently, dipalmitoil phosphatidylcholine (DPPC), the major lipidic component of SF, has been implicated as a potential boundary lubricant for synovial joints in an in vitro study, and accordingly, the high-molecular weight hyaluronan (HMW-HA) can be expected to have an even more superior effect as a viscosupplement. The purpose of this study is to examine the role of both DPPC and HMW-HA with regard to joint lubrication and their preventive effects on OA.
