Oxidative Stress and Nutritional Interventions in Knee Osteoarthritis
Summary
Oxidative stress arises from an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species and the capacity of endogenous antioxidant systems to neutralise them. In knee osteoarthritis, excessive reactive oxygen species contribute to the degeneration of articular cartilage by promoting chondrocyte senescence, apoptosis and matrix breakdown. This redox imbalance is closely intertwined with low-grade inflammation, driving the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases that erode cartilage integrity. Nutritional interventions aim to restore redox homeostasis and attenuate inflammatory cascades through dietary antioxidants and bioactive compounds. These include vitamins C and E, polyphenols such as curcumin and flavonoids, coenzyme Q10, and specific lipid-based antioxidants like tocotrienols. Dietary patterns rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains provide a spectrum of micronutrients and phytochemicals that bolster endogenous defences. Emerging evidence suggests that targeted supplementation and dietary modification can reduce oxidative biomarkers, slow cartilage degradation and improve pain and function, offering a complementary approach to conventional pharmacotherapy in knee osteoarthritis.
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Oxidative Stress and Nutritional Interventions in Knee Osteoarthritis publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in oxidative stress and nutritional interventions in knee osteoarthritis across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Reactive oxygen species (ROS): Chemically reactive molecules containing oxygen that can damage cellular components when in excess.
Oxidative stress: A state in which ROS generation exceeds the capacity of antioxidant defences.
Chondrocyte: A specialised cell that synthesises and maintains the cartilage extracellular matrix.
Antioxidant: A molecule or enzyme that neutralises ROS and prevents oxidative damage.
Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP): A family of enzymes that degrade collagen and other matrix proteins in cartilage.
References
- Benefits of antioxidant supplements for knee osteoarthritis: rationale and reality. Nutrition Journal (2015).
- The role of oxidative stress in the development of knee osteoarthritis: A comprehensive research review. Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences (2022).
- The Implication of Reactive Oxygen Species and Antioxidants in Knee Osteoarthritis. Antioxidants (2021).
- Effect of vitamin E on oxidative stress level in blood, synovial fluid, and synovial tissue in severe knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled study. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders (2017).
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