Association between osteoarthritis-related serum biochemical markers over 10–13 years and knee symptoms in middle-aged adults

Abstract

Objectives: To examine associations between osteoarthritis (OA)-related biochemical markers and knee symptoms in middle-aged adults over 10–13 year follow-up. Methods: Blood samples were collected during the Childhood Determinants of Adult Health (CDAH)-1 study (2004–06) and follow-up at CDAH-3. Serum samples from baseline (n=156) and follow-up (n=167) were analyzed for cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3, and hyaluronan (HA) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Knee symptoms were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scale at follow-up. Zero-inflated Poisson regression models adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index were used for analysis. Results: Significant associations were observed between COMP, MMP-3, and HA with knee pain and WOMAC-total score at follow-up. Baseline MMP-3 [ratio of means (RoM): 1.013; 95% CI: 1.006, 1.020], cumulative COMP (baseline + follow-up) [RoM: 1.022; 95% CI: 1.011, 1.033], and increased HA levels over time [RoM: 1.014; 95% CI: 1.007, 1.020] were positively associated with knee pain after 10–13 years. Conclusion: Cumulative COMP, baseline MMP-3, and changes in HA were associated with knee pain over a a 10–13 year follow-up. These markers may help predict future knee symptoms in middle-aged adults.