Comparison of the protective effect of the upper zone of the growth plate and unique cartilage matrix-associated protein with hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids on an experimental rat osteoarthritis model.

Our data revealed that UCMA could be used as a potential protective molecule in the prevention and treatment of OA. Furthermore, the protective effect of UCMA was similar to HA and CS, and its possible beneficial roles against OA may be linked to the reduced BMP-2 and NF-κB levels. Further experimental research would make significant contributions to a better understanding of the therapeutic effect of UCMA on degenerative cartilage tissues.