Effect of sheep tail fat on the knee joint cartilage injury induced in rats with formalin

Background: The effect of sheep tail fat (STF) on the damage induced in the knee articular joint with formalin was investigated and evaluated from the biochemical, gene expression, histopathological aspects in comparison with an extract consisting of glucosamine hydrochloride, chondroitin sulfate, methylsulfonylmethane, Harpagophytum procumbens and bromelain (GCMHB). Material and methods: The animals were divided into four groups: The first group received formalin injection to the knee joint as FCG control. The second group received 500 mg/kg STF + formalin (STFF). The third group was given 500 mg/kg GCMHB + formalin (GCMHBF). The fourth group was the healthy group (HG). The STF and GCMHBF were administered at 500 mg/kg dose. After 1 h of the STF and GCMHB administration 0.2 ml 1% formalin was injected into the knee joints of all rats except the HG group. The STF and GCMHB were given once a day at the specified doses over 30 days. Results: It was observed that, STF and GCMHB prevented the increase of IL-1β, TNF-α and COX-2 gene expressions in the cartilage tissue after formalin damage. In addition, STF and GCMHB improved the histopathological disturbances in the cartilage tissue caused by formalin. Conclusion: Since it is an inexpensive and easily available natural product, Sheep Tail Fat could be used in clinical practice along with the other medicines to prevent cartilage damage.