Abstract

Background: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is an important factor leading to early adult osteoarthritis. Chondrocyte apoptosis has been proven to be an important factor causing osteoarthritis.

Aims: The current study aims to explore whether a rabbit model of developmental dysplasia of the hip through cast immobilization in the legs results in chondrocyte apoptosis. 

Study Design: Animal experimentation.

Methods: Thirty-two New Zealand white rabbits were divided in three groups with cast plaster-induced dislocation at 2, 4 and 6 weeks. The contralateral hip joint was utilized as a control group. Ten rabbits in each group were sacrificed, and hip specimens were obtained. Bcl-2/Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-8 expression were examined by western blot analysis. Chondrocyte apoptosis was analyzed through transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and TUNEL analysis. All experiments were repeated at least three times. 

Results: In the experimental group, Bcl-2/Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-8 expression were significantly altered. The Bcl-2/Bax ratio decreased with time (all p<0.01), whereas levels of cleaved caspase-3 (p<0.01 and p<0.05) and cleaved caspase-8 (all p<0.05) gradually increased. Chondrocyte apoptosis was observed through transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and TUNEL analysis (p<0.05 at 4 weeks and p<0.01 at 6 weeks). 

Conclusion: Prolonged immobilization of rabbit hip caused chondrocyte apoptosis. Reduction of the hip joint may protect chondrocytes from apoptosis, thus preventing secondary osteoarthritis.