Osteolysis in arthroplasty: The influence of metal exposure in peri-implant bone on the osteocyte lacuno-canalicular network.

The release of metals from arthroplasty implants can clinically manifest in aseptic osteolysis. In a recent synchrotron-XRF study performed at the ESRF, we found that Co and Cr released from arthroplasty implants integrate into peri-implant bone. However, it remains elusive whether metal integration into bone directly alters bone tissue homeostasis. Osteocytes are located in the lacunar network of the bone and are major regulators of bone tissue homeostasis. Thus, the proposed project aims to perform nanoCT analyses of human ex vivo specimens to systematically investigate the influence of metal exposure on osteocyte lacunae and the osteocyte lacuno-canalicular network. Nano-resolution and a high sample throughput are mandatory to better understand the role of the osteocyte-network in the disturbed mineral homeostasis. The obtained results will provide new insights regarding the pathogeneses of metal exposure-induced osteolysis and potential treatment strategy in the future.