Changes in ³⁵S-Sulphate Uptake in Different Tissues in the Knee and Hip Regions of Rabbits During Immobilization, Remobilization and the Development of Osteoarthritis

Abstract

In order to observe phenomena accompanying the development of osteoarthritis of the rabbit knee, consistently appearing within 4—6 weeks as a consequence of immobilization of this joint, studies on ³⁵S-sulphate (Na₂³⁵SO₄) uptake were carried out. The investigation suggests that immobilization of the knee leads within 2–4 weeks to increased sulphate uptake in bone, cartilage and ligaments in the knee region and in the hip (not immobilized) of the same leg. The first marked changes in ssS-sulphate uptake were found in the ligaments and the articular cartilage as early as after 4 days of immobilization.

Key Words:

• osteoarthritis
• radioactive sulphate
• immobilization
• knee
• khip
• articular cartilage