Applications of Chondrocyte-Based Cartilage Engineering: An Overview

Figure 1

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) differentiations towards chondrocytes and other cell types. Differentiation and growth factors profile are schematically represented in sequence. Characteristic extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins at different stages are presented. Col, collagen; COMP, cartilage oligomeric protein; CD-RAP, cartilage-derived retinoic acid-sensitive protein; AP, alkaline phosphatase; MMP, matrix metalloprotease; BMPs, bone morphogenetic proteins; FGF, fibroblast growth factor; Wnt, Wingless Factors; TGF, transforming growth factor; IGF, insulin-like growth factor; VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor.