The MEK-ERK1/2 signaling pathway regulates hyaline cartilage formation and the redifferentiation of dedifferentiated chondrocytes in vitro.

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase-extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (MEK-ERK1/2) signaling pathway in chondrocyte differentiation and cartilage tissue construction in vitro. Chondrocytes were stimulated with rat serum (RS) and fetal bovine serum (FBS), and chondrocyte phenotypes were investigated microscopically. Chondrocyte proliferation was analyzed using fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) and the CCK8 method. Protein and mRNA expressions were assessed by western blot and RT-qPCR. Constructed cartilage tissues were examined by Safranin O-Fast Green FCF staining and immunofluorescence. In contrast to FBS, RS induced rapid dedifferentiation of chondrocytes and decreased type II collagen expression and pr

SUBMITTER: Wang X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6220221 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature