Loss of SCRG1 in chondrocytes inhibits osteoarthritis by promoting autophagy activity in the temporomandibular joint through inhibition of neurokine receptors.

BACKGROUND

To investigate how scrapie responsive gene 1 (SCRG1) contributes to the development of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA).

METHODS

Western blotting was used to identify protein expression. Proinflammatory cytokine levels were assessed by means of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent test. In order to find out whether chondrocytes expressed protein light chain 3B (LC3B), immunofluorescence was utilized.

RESULTS

In the TMJOA model, hydrogen peroxide (HO) treatment increased the expression of SCRG1, stimulated chondrocyte catabolism and inflammatory response, and blocked autophagy. In chondrocytes, SCRG1 silencing reduces the inflammatory response, catabolism, and autophagy inhibition brought on by HO. Concurrently, HO induction triggers the nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway and nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR). When SCRG1 is downregulated, NGFR expression is inhibited and the NF-κB pathway is blocked.

CONCLUSIONS

By inhibiting NGFR and blocking the NF-κB pathway, knocking down SCRG1 can prevent HO-induced inflammatory response, metabolic breakdown and autophagy inhibition in chondrocytes.