Gene Expression Markers of Tendon Fibroblasts
Author Information
Author(s): Sarah E. Taylor, Anne Vaughan-Thomas, Dylan N. Clements, Gina Pinchbeck, Lisa C. Macrory, Roger K.W. Smith, Peter D. Clegg
Primary Institution: University of Liverpool
Hypothesis
This study aims to quantify gene expression markers that distinguish between tendon fibroblasts and other mesenchymal cells which may be used to investigate tenogenesis.
Conclusion
High expression of both COL1A2 and scleraxis, and low expression of tenascin-C is representative of a tensional tendon phenotype.
Supporting Evidence
- Scleraxis showed significantly higher expression in tendon than in bone (P = 0.002).
- High levels of COL1A2 and scleraxis and low levels of tenascin-C were found to be most representative of adult tensional tendon phenotype.
- Tenascin-C expression was significantly increased in acutely diseased tendon (P = 0.001).
- Relative scleraxis gene expression levels in tendon cell monolayer and 3D cultures were significantly lower than in normal adult tendon.
Takeaway
The study found that certain genes can help identify healthy tendon cells, which is important for understanding tendon injuries and healing.
Methodology
Gene expression levels for 12 genes were evaluated in matched samples of equine tendon, cartilage, and bone using quantitative PCR.
Limitations
The in vitro culture methods used may not fully replicate the phenotype of normal tensional tendon fibroblasts.
Participant Demographics
Tissue samples were obtained from skeletally mature horses aged 4-10 years and skeletally immature animals.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P = 0.002
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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