Regulators of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein - expression in articular cartilage, epiphyseal growth plate and zone of Ranvier

Abstract

Purpose: Due to the absence of a vascular supply, articular cartilage (AC) has limited regenerative capacity. A deeper understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in cartilage repair and regeneration would result in considerably improved prospects for treatment and cures of osteoarthritis. The extracellular matrix (ECM) of cartilage comprises molecules that stabilize the collagen network and communicate with the chondrocytes to maintain the resilience and elasticity of the AC. Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) is an ECM glycoprotein secreted by chondrocytes, and is known to interact with many ECM proteins.