For millions of people living with osteoarthritis, daily life can involve a frustrating cycle of pain and stiffness. While current treatments like over-the-counter medications or steroid injections can temporarily dull the ache, they do not stop the joint from deteriorating.

Osteoarthritis is commonly described as a wear and tear condition, but the phrase oversimplifies the complex biological process that scientists are working to better understand.

Inside the joint, specialized cells called chondrocytes are constantly balancing two opposing tasks: building new cartilage and breaking down old tissue. This delicate balance is disrupted when osteoarthritis is present. Destructive forces begin to take over, and cartilage loss speeds up until bones begin to rub against each other. Over time, this progression can create the need for joint reconstruction surgery such as a total knee replacement.