The glycosaminoglycans of canine menisci.

The semilunar menisci of the knee have an important mechanical function and are commonly involved in joint degeneration. However, previously published analyses of the compositions of normal and degenerate human menisci vary widely. In the present study the glycosaminoglycan content and composition of selected areas of the menisci of eight normal knees of working foxhounds were determined. The menisci contained 10% less water and abut 8-fold less glucosaminoglycan than did the articular cartilage of these animals. Although the glycosaminoglycan composition was the same in different regions of the menisci, the total amounts varied considerably. Of the chondroitinase digestible material, approx. 60% was chondroitin 6-sulphate, 25% chondroitin 4-sulphate, 10% chondroitin and 5% dermatan sulphate. Hyaluronic acid accounted for about 6% of the total uronic acid.