Sialoglycans modulate Siglec-5-TLR4 interactions in osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by chronic, low-grade inflammation that contributes to cartilage degradation and joint pain. We previously identified sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin-5/14 (Siglec-5/14) in synovial fluid of OA patients (OA SF), which prompted us to investigate its interaction with the sialylated proinflammatory receptor Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in monocytes. Here, we reveal an inverse correlation between Siglec-5 and TLR4, suggesting that Siglec-5 may suppress inflammation. To gain mechanistic insights, monocytes stimulated with OA SFs were compared to macrophage colony stimulating factor (M-CSF), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and sialidase, to assess patient-specific inflammatory pathways and phenotypes. Notably, OA SF that triggered elevated interleukin (IL)-6 production in monocytes exhibited phenotypes similar to those of LPS- or sialidase-treated cells, reinforcing the role of sialylation patterns influencing OA severity. To confirm direct interaction of Siglec-5 and TLR4, colocalization was analyzed, displaying a time- and sialoglycan-dependent interaction. These findings reveal a Siglec-5-TLR4 axis modulated by sialylation, highlighting a potential strategy for mitigating inflammation and preserving joint integrity in OA.