Effects of Hydrogel Water Content on Chondrocyte Signaling Diana M. Yoon

Objective: Determine the effect of construct properties on encapsulated chondrocyte expression of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) in order to properly regenerate articular cartilage.

Methods: Monitor important genes (IGF-1 and type II collagen) by
encapsulated chondrocytes in hydrogels, while varying cell density and incorporating proteins naturally found in cartilage.

Results: Cell density has an impact on chondrocyte IGF-1 and type II collagen gene expression.