Decorin expression is important for age-related changes in tendon structure and mechanical properties.

ABSTRACT: The aging population is at an increased risk of tendon injury and tendinopathy. Elucidating the molecular basis of tendon aging is crucial to understanding the age-related changes in structure and function in this vulnerable tissue. In this study, the structural and functional features of tendon aging are investigated. In addition, the roles of decorin and biglycan in the aging process were analyzed using transgenic mice at both mature and aged time points. Our hypothesis is that the increase in tendon injuries in the aging population is the result of altered structural properties that reduce the biomechanical function of the tendon and consequently increase susceptibility to injury. Decorin and biglycan are important regulators of tendon structure and therefore, we further hypothesized th

SUBMITTER: Dunkman AA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3615887 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature