A cell-matrix model of anabolic and catabolic dynamics during cartilage biomolecule regulation

Physiologic regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) in articular cartilage tissue is controlled by cellular and molecular mechanisms which are not fully understood. It has been observed that the synthesis of the ECM structural molecules, glycosaminoglycan and collagen are promoted by growth factors such as IGF-1 and TGF-β. Concomitant ECM degradation is promoted by a variety of cytokines such as IL-1. The clinical need for reparative therapies of articular cartilage is linked with its poor intrinsic healing capacity. The following modelling approach was applied to engineered cartilage as a platform for exploring cartilage biology and to introduce a predictive tool as a bioinformatic support system supporting regenerative therapies. Systems biology was adapted through a mathematical framework producing a computational intelligence paradigm to explore a controlled phasic regulatory influence of the inhibition and production of ECM biomolecules. Model outcomes describe a steady synthesis of ECM as a dependence on a cyclic influence of the catabolic action of proteases and anabolic action of growth factors. This relationship is shown quantitatively in a governing harmonic equation representing the simplified biological mechanisms of biomolecule homeostasis.