Combined expression of CTGF and tissue inhibitor of metalloprotease-1 promotes synthesis of proteoglycan and collagen type II in rhesus monkey lumbar intervertebral disc cells in vitro.

Abstract

Single gene transduction of CTGF or TIMP-1 can enhanced synthesis of proteoglycan. CTGF expression can also enhance collagen type II protein synthesis. Combined transduction of both CTGF and TIMP1 can significantly promote the expression of proteoglycan and collagen type II to levels greater than transduction of a single gene alone. Our study provides a good basis for multi-gene therapy to treat lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration.