SHP Protein Emerges as Potential Breakthrough to Stall Osteoarthritis

Researchers have identified the SHP (NR0B2) protein as a key defender of cartilage whose levels fall as osteoarthritis progresses. Restoring SHP in animal models reduced cartilage damage, improved joint function, and dampened cartilage-degrading enzymes (MMP-3 and MMP-13) via the IKKβ/NF-κB pathway. Gene delivery of SHP into affected joints produced lasting benefits, suggesting a potential disease-modifying approach to slow or halt osteoarthritis.