MRI and single-cell RNA sequence results reveal the influence of anterior talofibular ligament injury on osteochondral lesions of the talus

TL;DR

This study shows how anterior talofibular ligament injuries are linked to cartilage damage in the ankle and suggests early treatment can prevent further damage.

Contribution

The study combines MRI and single-cell RNA sequencing to reveal a novel link between ligament injury and cartilage damage in the talus.

Findings

ATFL injury grade correlates with the severity of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) as determined by MRI.

Single-cell RNA sequencing identified strong interactions between chondrocyte subtypes via CD99 and ANGPTL signaling pathways.

Early intervention for ligament injuries is recommended to prevent cartilage damage and maintain joint stability.

Abstract

Anterior talofibular ligament injuries and osteochondral lesions of the talus present unique challenges to orthopedic surgeons. This study aimed to investigate the relevant relationship between them by analyzing the Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results of clinical patients and single-cell RNA sequence (scRNA seq) results of healthy talus cartilage to discuss the risk factors. Data from 164 patients from 2018 to 2023 was retrospectively analyzed. The correlation analysis between ATFL injury grade and the Hepple stage of OLT determined by MRI was performed. Publicly available single-cell RNA datasets were collected. Single-cell RNA datasets from five volunteers of healthy talus cartilage were analyzed. ATFL injury grade was relevant with the Hepple stage of OLT (P < 0.05). The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that injured area was the independent influencing factor of the incidence rate and the severity of OLT (P < 0.05). The Hepple stage of OLT was relevant with AOFAS and VAS (P < 0.05). Single-cell RNA sequence results showed that among the 9 subtypes of chondrocytes, the interaction strength between HTC-A and HTC-B is the highest. Their physical interactions are mainly achieved through the CD99 signaling pathway, and factor interactions are mainly achieved through the ANGPTL signaling pathway. Anterior talofibular ligament injury may lead to osteochondral lesions of the talus. Early medical intervention should be carried out for ligament injuries to restore joint stability and avoid cartilage damage.

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