An equine joint friction test model using a cartilage-on-cartilage arrangement.

The research article presents a study on testing joint friction in horses using a cartilage-on-cartilage model. It further signifies the impact of age and load on the frictional response of the joint.

Methodology

• The researchers developed an equine joint friction test model using a cartilage-on-cartilage arrangement. Osteochondral plugs were extracted from the shoulder joints of horses aged between 2-5 years (n=12) and 10-14 years (n=15).
• The plugs were then mounted in a pin-on-disc tribometer, a machine used to measure the frictional response against constant and varying loads.
• The test was performed under constant conditions (2N load; at 20 degrees C; speed 5 mm/s).
• The frictional response was also measured with increasing load (2N, 5N, 10N).

Findings and Conclusion

• The tests showed that the friction coefficient of young cartilage was significantly less than that obtained from old cartilage, which denotes an increase in joint friction as cartilage ages.
• Moreover, the application of greater load resulted in a significant decrease in friction coefficient in older cartilage, suggesting a change in lubrication regime potentially attributable to cartilage ageing.
• However, in the case of younger cartilage, lubrication remained stable under increased loads, signalling its natural capacity to maintain lubrication efficiency.
• The overall conclusion of the study points out that cartilage ageing plays a pivotal role in increasing joint friction and altering the cartilage’s lubrication mechanism.

Implications of the Research

• This cartilage-on-cartilage model developed in the study can be leveraged to gain deeper insights into lubrication regime disturbances in both healthy and diseased equine joints.
• The model can additionally be used to test the effectiveness of various bio-lubricant treatments, thus aiding in the development of potential therapeutic interventions for equine joint diseases.