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Chapter 25: Problem 47

Hyaluronic acid acts as a lubricant in the synovial fluid of joints. In rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation breaks hyaluronic acid down to smaller molecules. Lnder these conditions, what happens to the lubricating power of the synovial fluid?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis leads to the production of free radicals and enzymes that break down hyaluronic acid into smaller molecules. This decreases the viscosity and lubricating power of the synovial fluid, contributing to joint pain and stiffness in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Hyaluronic Acid and Synovial Fluid

Hyaluronic acid is a long, linear polysaccharide that is found in the synovial fluid of joints. It plays a crucial role in lubricating the joint surfaces and maintaining the viscosity of the synovial fluid. This is essential for smooth, pain-free movement.
02

Effect of Inflammation on Hyaluronic Acid

In rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, inflammation occurs in the synovial membrane and affects the joint. This inflammation causes an increase in the production of free radicals and enzymes that break down hyaluronic acid into smaller molecules.
03

Changes in Lubricating Power of Synovial Fluid

As hyaluronic acid is broken down into smaller molecules, the viscosity of the synovial fluid decreases. The change in the molecular structure of hyaluronic acid reduces its lubricating properties. As a result, the lubricating power of the synovial fluid is compromised.
04

Conclusion

Under conditions of inflammation, as in rheumatoid arthritis, hyaluronic acid in the synovial fluid is broken down into smaller molecules. This process leads to a decrease in the viscosity and lubricating power of the synovial fluid, which contributes to the joint pain and stiffness experienced by individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Hyaluronic Acid in Joint Health
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance with a gel-like consistency, found in ample amounts within our joints. Functioning as a critical component of synovial fluid, it helps to maintain the resilience and pliability of cartilage surfaces. Its long, chain-like molecules weave together, forming a viscoelastic network that provides cushioning against impact and allows for seamless joint movement.

The presence of hyaluronic acid within synovial fluid is akin to oil in an engine; it ensures smooth operation and reduces wear and tear on moving parts. In the context of rheumatoid arthritis, however, this 'engine oil' is degraded, leading to diminished joint function and discomfort.
Lubricating Properties of Synovial Fluid
The lubricating power of synovial fluid is paramount in maintaining joint health. Imagine your joints are very similar to mechanical joints needing oil for smooth operation. Synovial fluid, rich with hyaluronic acid, acts as that oil, minimizing friction during movement and protecting the joint surfaces.

In individuals with healthy joints, synovial fluid is a thick, slippery substance, adept at preventing joint surfaces from grinding against each other. However, the degradation of hyaluronic acid during inflammatory processes such as rheumatoid arthritis undermines the fluid's effectiveness, leading to increased friction, wear, and ultimately, pain during motion.
Effects of Inflammation on Joints
Inflammation is the body's response to injury or disease, but it can have detrimental effects when chronic or excessive, as seen in rheumatoid arthritis. Inflamed joints present various troubles, starting with the swelling of the synovial membrane, the production of excessive joint fluid, and the release of destructive enzymes.

These enzymes break down the molecular structure of hyaluronic acid, causing not just a decrease in joint lubrication but also contributing to the breakdown of cartilage and bone. The resulting decreased functionality causes the joints to become less stable, leading to greater pain and potential deformity.
Joint Pain and Stiffness
Joint pain and stiffness are hallmark symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, often as a result of the compromised integrity of synovial fluid due to the breakdown of hyaluronic acid. These symptoms significantly affect the quality of life, limiting mobility and daily activities.

As the lubricating properties of the synovial fluid diminish, the joints become more susceptible to the stresses of movement. This leads to pain that is usually exacerbated by motion and a stiffness that is often most prominent in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Management of these symptoms is crucial in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis to maintain joint function and patient well-being.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Draw Fischer projections for the product(s) formued by reaction of D-galactose with the following. In addition, state whether each product is optically active or inactive. (a) \(\mathrm{NaBH}_{4}\) in \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) (b) \(\mathrm{H}_{2} / \mathrm{Pt}\) (c) \(\mathrm{HNO}_{3}\), warm (d) \(\mathrm{Br}_{2} / \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O} / \mathrm{CaCO}_{3}\) (e) \(\mathrm{H}_{3} \mathrm{IO}_{6}\) (f) \(\mathrm{C}_{6} \mathrm{H}_{3} \mathrm{NH}_{2}\)

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