Which statement describes the chondroitin moa in osteoarthritis?

• A. Stimulates proteoglycan synthesis from articular cartilage
• B. Inhibits proteoglycan synthesis
• C. Degrades collagen
• D. Increases osteoclast activity

Answer: (A)

Chondrin’s effect in osteoarthritis is to promote the production of proteoglycans by chondrocytes in articular cartilage. Proteoglycans, like aggrecan, attract and trap water, giving cartilage its buoyant, shock-absorbing quality. In OA, loss of proteoglycans weakens the matrix and reduces cartilage resilience. By stimulating proteoglycan synthesis, chondroitin helps rebuild the cartilage matrix and support its normal function, which can contribute to symptom relief and slower matrix degeneration. This aligns with its role as an anabolic agent for cartilage, unlike options that would break down matrix (degrading collagen), drive bone resorption (increasing osteoclast activity), or directly inhibit proteoglycan production, all of which would worsen cartilage integrity.