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Cell-cell junctions in developing and adult tendons

Sophia K Theodossiou1, Jett B Murray1, Nathan R Schiele1

  • 1Biological Engineering, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID.

Tissue Barriers
|December 11, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Cell-cell junctions, including cadherins and connexins, are crucial for tendon development, maintenance, and injury. Understanding these proteins aids future tendon regeneration strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology
  • Musculoskeletal Science

Background:

  • Tendons are vital for force transmission in movement.
  • Cell-cell junction proteins like cadherins and connexins are implicated in musculoskeletal tissue development and injury.
  • Existing research on these junctions is more extensive in cartilage and bone compared to tendons.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of cell-cell junctions in embryonic and postnatal tendon development.
  • To examine the function of cadherins and connexins in adult tendons.
  • To provide insights from cartilage and bone research to inform future tendon studies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on cell-cell junctions in tendon development, postnatal maintenance, and adult function.
  • Survey of cadherin and connexin roles in chondrogenesis and osteogenesis.
  • Summary of cell-cell junction involvement in musculoskeletal tissue pathologies.

Main Results:

  • Cell-cell junctions are integral to embryonic tendon development and differentiation.
  • Cadherins and connexins play significant roles in the maintenance and function of postnatal and adult tendons.
  • Insights from cartilage and bone suggest potential mechanisms for tendon pathologies.

Conclusions:

  • A comprehensive understanding of cell-cell junctions in tendons is essential for advancing regenerative medicine.
  • Further research into cadherins and connexins in tendons will facilitate improved therapeutic strategies for tendon injuries and diseases.

Keywords:
Tendoncadherinconnexindevelopmenttissue engineering

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