Assessment of mRNA levels for matrix molecules and TGF-B1 in rabbit flexor and peroneus tendons reveals regional differences in steady-state expression

• This study analysed the differences on a molecular level between two segments of the deep flexor tendon, and compared the intrasynovial flexor tendon with the tendon sheath and the extrasynovial peroneus tendon in a rabbit model. The TRIspin method of RNA extraction was combined with the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction to assess mRNA levels in the tissue segments. Significant differences were detected for all genes studied. mRNA levels for aggrecan, biglycan and collagen III were significantly higher in the fibrocartilaginous proximal segment of the flexor tendon. Collagen I was higher in the flexor tendon than the sheath and the peroneus tendon, and TGF-beta1 was significantly lower in the peroneus tendon. This study demonstrates differences at the mRNA level between different segments of tendon, indicating that the tendon tissue may be adapted to its environment.

Subject headings

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Kirurgi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Surgery (hsv//eng)

Keyword

flexor tendon

proteoglycan

collagen

tendon heterogeneity

Hand surgery

Handkirurgi

Orthopaedics

Ortopedi

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)