Mechanotransduction via integrins and interleukinâ4 results in altered aggrecan and matrix metalloproteinase 3 gene expression in normal, but not osteoarthritic, human articular chondrocytes

Abstract

Mechanical stimulation of human articular chondrocytes in vitro results in increased levels of aggrecan mRNA and decreased levels of MMP-3 mRNA. The transduction process involves integrins, stretch-activated ion channels, and IL-4. This chondroprotective response is absent in chondrocytes from OA cartilage. Abnormalities of mechanotransduction leading to aberrant chondrocyte activity in diseased articular cartilage may be important in the progression of OA.