Decorin Regulates the Aggrecan Network Integrity and Biomechanical Functions of Cartilage Extracellular Matrix.

ABSTRACT: Joint biomechanical functions rely on the integrity of cartilage extracellular matrix. Understanding the molecular activities that govern cartilage matrix assembly is critical for developing effective cartilage regeneration strategies. This study elucidated the role of decorin, a small leucine-rich proteoglycan, in the structure and biomechanical functions of cartilage. In decorin-null cartilage, we discovered a substantial reduction of aggrecan content, the major proteoglycan of cartilage matrix, and mild changes in collagen fibril nanostructure. This loss of aggrecan resulted in significantly impaired biomechanical properties of cartilage, including decreased modulus, elevated hydraulic permeability, and reduced energy dissipation capabilities. At the cellular level, we found that decori

SUBMITTER: Han B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6892632 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature