Activation Of The Mechanosensitive Ion Channel, Piezo1 Increases Il6 Production In Osteocytes

Purpose: Osteocytes function as critical regulators of bone homeostasis by sensing mechanical signals. The mechanisms underlying abnormal joint mechanics are poorly understood despite it being a major risk factor for developing musculoskeletal diseases such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. The inflammatory cytokine IL6 is implicated in joint degeneration, with increased synovial fluid concentrations in osteoarthritis and after joint injury. This study used a human, cell-based physiological, 3D in vitro model of bone to define the osteocyte response to mechanical load and the inflammatory cytokine IL6.