Results indicate that culture conditions play a significant role in determining the effect of GlcN on chondrocytes, explaining both the previously reported beneficial and deleterious effects of this sugar. The ability of GlcN to alter TGF-beta1 signaling provides a biochemical mechanism for GlcN activity on chondrocytes that up to now has remained elusive. The observed anabolic effect of optimal GlcN concentrations on chondrocytes may be useful in formulating effective cartilage repair strategies.
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