Transforming growth factor-beta can induce differentiation of hypertrophic chondrocytes into osteoblast-like cells in epiphyseal plate
Wang, F.; Zhang, B.; Yang, H.; Li, A.; Li, R.; Zhou, D.
Hua Xi Yi Ke da Xue Xue Bao 32(2): 243-246
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 0257-7712 PMID: 12600097 Document Number: 531440
To investigate the effect of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) on the differentiation of hypertrophic chondrocytes in epiphyseal plate in order to understand its role in the mechanism of bone and cartilage formation. We observed the effect of TGF-beta in varied time and dosage on the differentiation of hypertrophic chondrocytes in embryonic chick femora which were cultured in serum-free medium, using histochemical staining to detect the expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and immunohistochemical staining to detect the expression of type I collagen and fibronectin. TGF-beta enabled the chondrocytes to express type I collagen and fibronectin, and it enhanced the expression of ALP in hypertrophic zone. Time-effect and dosage-effect relationships were observed. TGF-beta can induce the differentiation of hypertrophic chondrocytes into osteoblast-like cells in epiphyseal plate of embryonic chick femora. The inducing effect might be closely related to time and dosage of TGF-beta.