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Chondrogenic Differentiation Induction of Adipose-derived Stem Cells by Centrifugal Gravity
Published on: February 24, 2017
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Short-term response of primary human meniscus cells to simulated microgravity
Zhiyao Ma1, David Xinzheyang Li1,2, Xiaoyi Lan1
1Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada.
Cell Communication and Signaling : CCS
|June 21, 2024
Summary
Mechanical unloading of knee meniscus fibrocartilage triggers osteoarthritis markers and inflammation. Sex-specific responses were observed, with female donors showing increased proliferation and male donors regulating matrix remodeling, offering insights into knee osteoarthritis disparities.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Orthopedics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Mechanical unloading of knee articular cartilage leads to matrix atrophy and osteoarthritis.
- Meniscal fibrocartilage's response to mechanical unloading is largely unknown.
- Understanding meniscal fibrocartilage behavior is crucial for knee joint health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of mechanical unloading on human meniscus fibrochondrocytes in a 3D model.
- To identify molecular changes and sex-specific responses in meniscal fibrocartilage under simulated microgravity.
- To explore potential mechanisms underlying sex disparities in knee osteoarthritis.
Main Methods:
- Primary human meniscus fibrochondrocytes from male and female donors were cultured in porous collagen scaffolds.
- 3D meniscus models were subjected to simulated microgravity (SMG) for 7 days.
- RNA sequencing was performed to analyze transcriptome changes.
Main Results:
- Simulated microgravity induced significant transcriptome changes, including upregulation of osteoarthritis markers (COL10A1, MMP13, SPP1) and pathways related to inflammation and calcification.
- Sex-specific transcriptional responses were observed: female donor models showed increased proliferation and involvement of JUN protein in osteoarthritis-related pathways.
- Male donor models primarily regulated extracellular matrix components and remodeling enzymes.
Conclusions:
- A novel in vitro model using cell-seeded meniscus constructs and simulated microgravity was developed.
- Significant sex-specific molecular mechanisms in response to mechanical unloading were revealed.
- Findings provide insights into sex disparities in knee osteoarthritis and identify potential therapeutic targets.
