Cartrilage Matrix Properties by Altered Gene Expression

描述(由申请人提供)：将开发一个模型系统，用于评估特定分子对软骨基质机械性能的作用。利用基因转染和RNA干扰的方法，核心蛋白聚糖将在幼兔的软骨细胞中过度表达或被抑制，然后这些细胞在培养中生长，产生可以进行机械测试的组织。将正常组织的力学测试结果与基因改变的组织进行比较，将有助于确定核心蛋白聚糖和其他候选分子在软骨细胞基质的力学性能中所起的作用。该模型将为研究软骨基质分子的结构/功能关系，以及研究骨关节炎等软骨疾病的发病机制提供新的途径。软骨在OA疾病过程中会减弱；新方法将有助于识别当软骨受损时可能导致这种减弱的关键分子。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): A model system for evaluating the role of specific molecules on the mechanical properties of cartilage matrix will be developed. Using methods of gene transfection and RNA interference, decorin will be either overexpressed or suppressed in chondrocytes from young rabbits, and then these cells grown in culture to produce a tissue that can be mechanically tested. Comparing mechanical test results from normal tissue with the gene altered tissue will aid in defining the role decorin, and other candidate molecules, plays in the mechanical properties of chondrocyte matrix. The developed model will be a new way to study the structure/function relationships for cartilage matrix molecules, and to study the mechanisms of cartilage diseases such as osteoarthritis. Cartilage weakens in the OA disease process; the new method will help identify critical molecules that when damaged could lead to this weakening.