DAMPs Synergize with Cytokines or Fibronectin Fragment on Inducing Chondrolysis but Lose Effect When Acting Alone

Figure 3

Observations made in bovine chondrocytes were further verified in the same type of cells in humans. Articular chondrocytes were isolated from the ankle cartilage of an amputated patient. Passage 2 cells were treated with DAMPs and/or Fn-f (a) or IL-1β (b) for 24 hrs. Medium samples were analyzed for MMP-3 expression with Western blotting. Relative intensity of protein bands on each blot was measured and plotted, respectively.

(a) Fn-f combination with other DAMPs (human chondrocytes)

(b) IL-β in combination with other DAMPs (human chondrocytes)