Site-dependent changes in structure and function of lapine articular cartilage 4 weeks after anterior cruciate ligament transection

Femoral condyle cartilage experienced the greatest structural and mechanical alterations in very early OA, as produced by ACLT. Degenerative alterations were observed especially in the superficial collagen fiber organization and PG content, while the collagen content was increased in the deep tissue of femoral condyle cartilage. The current findings provide novel information of the early stages of OA in different locations of the knee joint.