Search

cDNA microarray technology is a powerful tool that allows the expression profiling of thousands of mRNA transcripts simultaneously. Despite technical and analytical challenges, the application of gene expression profiling in degenerative arthritis research will provide a better understanding of the disease at the molecular level and lead to new diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets. Profiling the gene expression of articular cartilage will lead to the identification of genes involved in cartilage matrix homeostasis and in disease initiation, progression and outcome. Analysis of gene expression patterns of synovium in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis (OA) may help identify targets for future disease management. Recently, gene profiling strategies have been applied to peripheral blood from subjects with OA, a novel development in OA diagnosis.