Analysis of the TGF-b signaling in cartilage by nonlinear optics imaging combined with genetic engineering techniques

多光子显微镜能够基于二次谐波产生（SHG）信号来表征和评价体内和体外胶原基质的变化。我们对酶处理引起的软骨退变进行了SHG成像。在实验样品中观察到SHG信号强度的变化。我们还用H2B-GFP系小鼠建立了动物骨关节炎模型。我们成功地利用SHG和双光子激发荧光技术评估了软骨基质和软骨细胞随时间的变化。此外，用同样的方法观察老龄小鼠的关节软骨。与年轻小鼠相比，可以评估它们为自发性膝骨关节炎。我们的技术结合了基因工程和分子与光子之间的非线性相互作用来探讨软骨退变的机制，是一种很有前途的转化研究，可以引导临床应用。

Multi-photon microscopy enables to characterize and evaluate alternation of collagen matrix in vivo and in vitro based on second harmonic generation (SHG) signal. We performed SHG imaging of the cartilage degeneration induced by enzyme treatment. In the result, changes in SHG signal intensity were observed in the experimental samples. We also established an animal osteoarthritis model by syndesmectomy using H2B-GFP line mice. We successfully evaluated over time the changes in cartilage matrix and chondrocytes by SHG and two-photon excited fluorescence. Furthermore, the articular cartilages of aged mice were observed as the same manner. In comparison with those of young mice, it was possible to evaluate them as spontaneous knee osteoarthritis. Our technique that combined genetic engineering and nonlinear interaction between the molecules and photons to approach the mechanism of cartilage degeneration is promising as a translational research leading to clinical application.