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CTGF Attenuates Tendon-Derived Stem/Progenitor Cell Aging

Yun-Feng Rui1,2,3,4,5, Min-Hao Chen1,2,3,4,5, Ying-Juan Li5,6

  • 1Department of Orthopaedics, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.

Stem Cells International
|December 13, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) declines in aged tendon stem cells, impairing healing. Supplementing CTGF rejuvenates these cells, offering a potential therapy for age-related tendon disorders.

Area of Science:

  • Biogerontology
  • Stem Cell Biology
  • Musculoskeletal Research

Background:

  • Aged tendon-derived stem/progenitor cells (TSPCs) contribute to age-related tendon disorders and impaired healing.
  • The molecular mechanisms driving TSPC aging are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in the aging process of TSPCs.
  • To explore CTGF as a potential therapeutic target for age-related tendon conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Quantification of CTGF protein and mRNA levels in aged TSPCs.
  • Treatment of aged TSPCs with recombinant CTGF.
  • Analysis of TSPC self-renewal, differentiation, and cell cycle progression.
  • Assessment of cell cycle regulatory proteins (cyclin D1, CDK4, p27kip1).

Main Results:

  • CTGF levels were significantly decreased in aged TSPCs.
  • Recombinant CTGF treatment attenuated TSPC aging, restoring self-renewal and differentiation.
  • CTGF promoted G1/S phase transition in aged TSPCs arrested in G1/S.
  • CTGF treatment normalized cyclin D1 and CDK4 levels while reducing p27kip1 expression.

Conclusions:

  • CTGF plays a critical role in TSPC aging.
  • CTGF may serve as a potential molecular therapeutic target for age-related tendon disorders and impaired tendon healing.

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