Influence of extracellular matrix on the expression of inflammatory cytokines, proteases, and apoptosis-related genes induced by hydrostatic pressure in three-dimensionally cultured chondrocytes

These findings suggested that nonphysiological, excessive HP on chondrocytes with the ECM in poor condition reduced matrix gene expression and increased expression of the genes associated with apoptosis and catabolism of the cartilage matrix. These results might therefore be associated with the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis.