Human Chondrocytes, Metabolism of Articular Cartilage, and Strategies for Application to Tissue Engineering

Abstract

Hyaline cartilage, which is characterized by the absence of vascularization and innervation, has minimal self-repair potential in case of damage and defect formation in the chondral layer. Chondrocytes are specialized cells that ensure the synthesis of extracellular matrix components, namely type II collagen and aggregen. On their surface, they express integrins CD44, α1β1, α3β1, α5β1, α10β1, αVβ1, αVβ3, and αVβ5, which are also collagen-binding components of the extracellular matrix. This article aims to contribute to solving the problem of the possible repair of chondral defects through unique methods of tissue engineering, as well as the process of pathological events in articular cartilage. In vitro cell culture models used for hyaline cartilage repair could bring about advanced possibilities. Currently, there are several variants of the combination of natural and synthetic polymers and chondrocytes. In a three-dimensional environment, chondrocytes retain their production capacity. In the case of mesenchymal stromal cells, their favorable ability is to differentiate into a chondrogenic lineage in a three-dimensional culture.

Ovine Mesenchymal Stem Cell Chondrogenesis on a Novel 3D-Printed Hybrid Scaffold In Vitro

“…Instead, SC-200, supplemented with a chondrogenic medium, partially maintained their rounded morphology. Previous research has demonstrated that insufficient cell density can result in suboptimal synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) and the loss of the functional phenotype of chondrocytes [60,61]. In contrast, high-density cultures preserve the spherical shape of chondrocytes, although excessive density may impede nutrient exchange and reduce ECM production [60].…”

Sericin promotes chondrogenic proliferation and differentiation via glycolysis and Smad2/3 TGF-β signaling inductions and alleviates inflammation in three-dimensional models

“…Indeed, the increase in the prevalence of this disease may cause a significant burden on the worldwide healthcare system 5 . Articular cartilage is a hyaline cartilage consisting mainly of chondrocytes and a dense extracellular matrix (ECM) 6 . ECM predominantly comprises type II collagen, proteoglycans, and other minor components 6 .…”

“…Articular cartilage is a hyaline cartilage consisting mainly of chondrocytes and a dense extracellular matrix (ECM) 6 . ECM predominantly comprises type II collagen, proteoglycans, and other minor components 6 . In addition, chondrocytes play a crucial role in maintaining cartilage homeostasis through proliferation and secretion of their matrix and matrix-degrading enzymes 7 .…”