Multi-omics integrated analysis of obesity-related osteoarthritis

Project Summary

People who carry excess body weight have a much higher risk of developing osteoarthritis (OA), especially in the knee. OA is a common joint condition that causes pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Although we know that obesity increases the chance of getting OA, we still do not fully understand why this happens or what biological changes link body weight to joint damage.

In this project, we aim to uncover how obesity affects the body in ways that may lead to OA. We will compare four groups of people: those with obesity-related knee or hip OA, those with OA who are not obese, those with obesity who are not affected by OA, and healthy individuals without OA and obesity. By comparing these groups, we hope to find biological markers and pathways that explain how obesity contributes to joint problems. Understanding these differences may help us develop better tools for early diagnosis and new treatment strategies, ultimately improving prevention for people at higher risk of OA.