Cartrilage Matrix Properties by Altered Gene Expression

描述（由申请人提供）：将开发用于评价特定分子对软骨基质机械性质的作用的模型系统。使用基因转染和RNA干扰的方法，核心蛋白聚糖将在来自幼兔的软骨细胞中过度表达或抑制，然后这些细胞在培养物中生长以产生可以进行机械测试的组织。比较正常组织与基因改变组织的机械测试结果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机械特性中的作用。该模型为研究软骨基质分子的结构/功能关系以及骨关节炎等软骨疾病的发病机制提供了新的途径。软骨素在OA疾病过程中减弱;新方法将有助于识别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.