In the experimental models, it was observed that osteoarthritis-related clinical and histologic findings could be inhibited with nitric oxide synthase inhibitors. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of NO, MMP-9, MMP-13, TIMP-1 and TNF-α on the viability and proliferation of chondrocytes. Primary chondrocyte cultures were obtained from the tissues of patients undergoing osteoarthritis surgery. Cell surface antigens were examined via flow cytometric analyses. Chondrocyte cultures were evaluated for cell viability and proliferation before and after the administration of 7-NI, AG, and L-ARG were added, either alone or with TGF-β1. Cell surface morphologies were examined via inverted light and environmental scanning electron microscopy. In all groups, TNF-α, MMP-9, MMP-13, TIMP-1 and NO were measured spectrophotometrically using commercial kits. Obtained data were analyzed statistically and alpha<0.05 was considered as significant. Locally administered neuronal nitric oxide synthase inhibitors as 7-nitroindazole were shown to selectively inhibit nitric oxide release, and increase chondrocyte proliferation significantly more than the group to which inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitors were applied. Injecting the aforementioned medications into the knee reduces the side-effects of nitric oxide-related biochemical mechanisms to the minimum, suggesting that these medication molecules may be effective in repairing cartilage damage or decreasing cartilage degeneration?
 

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