Ugonin P facilitates chondrogenic properties in chondrocytes by inhibiting miR-3074-5p production: implications for the treatment of arthritic disorders.

Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes joint damage, with osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) being the most common types. Both conditions are characterized by cartilage degradation due to an imbalance between repair and breakdown processes. Chondrocytes, the key cells in articular cartilage, maintain its structure by producing an extracellular matrix rich in aggrecan and type II collagen (COL2). MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small noncoding RNAs, regulate genes critical for cartilage balance and are involved in the progression and treatment of OA and RA. Recently, herbal medicines have gained attention for arthritis treatment. Ugonin P, a flavonoid from Helminthostachys zeylanica Hook, is known for its antioxidant and anticancer effects, but its role in cartilage homeostasis is unclear. This study explores ugonin P's chondrogenic effects and its molecular mechanisms involving miRNA regulation. Analysis of Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) data and clinical samples revealed reduced aggrecan and COL2 levels in OA and RA, while miR-3074-5p levels were elevated, suppressing these proteins. Ugonin P, without affecting cell viability, enhanced aggrecan and COL2 production and promoted chondrocyte differentiation by downregulating miR-3074-5p and activating MAPK pathways. These findings suggest ugonin P as a promising therapeutic candidate for arthritis management.