Effects of Kaempferia galanga L. extract on monosodium iodoacetate-induced osteoarthritis in rats

Context: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease characterized by the progressive degradation of cartilage, synovial inflammation, and functional impairment. Kaempferia galanga L. extract (KGE) demonstrates analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, yet its effects on OA remain unclear. Aims: To evaluate the chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of KGE on a monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA rat model. Methods: Male Wistar rats were allocated into six groups: normal control, MIA control, MIA + KGE (90, 180, and 360 mg/kg), and MIA + ibuprofen (20 mg/kg). OA was induced via intra-articular MIA injection. Treatments were administered orally for 21 days. Knee joint diameter, plasma IL-1β, histopathology (OARSI scoring), and immunohistochemical markers (type II collagen, SOX-9, aggrecan, NF-κB, TNF-α, and MMP-13) were assessed. Results: KGE reduced plasma IL-1β levels, suppressed NF-κB, TNF-α, and MMP-13, while concurrently enhancing type II collagen, SOX-9, and aggrecan in a dose-dependent manner. Administration of KGE at 360 mg/kg demonstrated the most pronounced chondroprotective effects. Conclusions: KGE attenuated MIA-induced OA by modulating inflammatory pathways and preserving cartilage integrity, thereby supporting its potential as an alternative therapeutic option for osteoarthritis. Further research is warranted to elucidate its molecular mechanisms and assess its long-term safety profile.