Getting to the Heart of Osteoarthritis (OA): targeting joint-derived micro-RNAs (miRs) to reduce OA-associated cardiovascular disease (CVD)

USyd led NHMRC Ideas Grant

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a major personal and healthcare burden projected to rise due to our ageing population. OA is a strong risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), however the mechanism behind this is unknown. Our novel data has identified a previously unexplored biological link, where factors released from injured and OA joints directly affect heart cells to cause CVD. This study will define these molecular mechanisms, and if and when they can be targeted to reduce OA-driven CVD risk.