It is unlikely that a single treatment for OA will be similarly efficacious in preventing or delaying the progression of all types of structural OA. The hallmark features of the subchondral bone and inflammatory phenotype of knee OA show fluctuation over time. Symptom fluctuation has been linked to concomitant fluctuation of these structural parameters in the same direction. As a consequence, the subchondral bone and inflammatory structural manifestations of the disease have been identified as treatment targets of particular interest in the context of DMOAD development. BICL has been leading efforts to define structural OA phenotypes and evaluate their role in regard to patterns of progression. 

This recently published study lead by Dr. Roemer aimed at evaluating whether worsening and improvement of bone marrow lesions and inflammation is associated with concurrent increased or decreased rates of cartilage loss over 24 months. For this end a study sample comprised of 2 cohorts largely representing a simulated clinical trial population, was analyzed. The results suggest that particularly avoidance of BML development and inflammation is particularly relevant for preservation of cartilage. 

Please find more details and the full article attached and at https://doi.org/10.1177/19476035241287694