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Updated: Sep 27, 2026
Matrix-assisted Autologous Chondrocyte Transplantation for Remodeling and Repair of Chondral Defects in a Rabbit Model
Published on: May 21, 2013
[Cartilage matrix synthetic ability of rabbit articular chondrocytes cultured in vitro]
Objective:
To observe the ability of matrix synthesis of rabbit articular chondrocytes cultured in vitro.
Methods:
Rabbit articular chondrocytes were acquired by digestion of 0.1% type II collagenase and cultured in vitro, then cell morphology and ultrastructure were observed with phase-contrast microscope and scanning electronic microscope. With continuous culturing of chondrocytes in DMEM medium containing 15% FBS, synthesis of cartilage matrix was observed by using microscope and safranine-O staining.
Results:
The cultured chondrocytes were polygonal cells. There were many rough endoplasmic reticula and mitochondria in cytoplasm, and a lot of secretory vesicles under cell membrane and in the cytoplasm. When cultured for 10 days, some small and white nodules were formed on the bottom of the culture dishes, and volcanic-mouth-like structures were formed when cultured for 20 days. Both these nodules and structures contained GAG-positive substances were demonstrated by safranine-O staining.
Conclusion:
Chondrocytes can produce matrix and cartilage-like tissue in vitro, so it is feasible to produce cartilage by culturing chondrocytes in vitro.
