Abstract
Chondrogenesis is a vital part of adult life, as cartilage is important not only for articulation of joints but also maintenance functions of the body. Chondrogenesis is a five way process of intricate events controlled by specific genes and cell-cell interactions which has been documented over recent years. This review highlights the current literature regarding the process of endochondral ossification and covers the different level of control at agent level. Due to the proliferative nature of chondrogenesis and using chondrocytes for self renewal and repair, current research involves finding ways in which to improve and replicate expansion of chondrocytes. The review summarises ways in which ex vitro expansion can be manipulated using growth factors, external sources and scaffolds.
Keywords: Cartilage, chondrocytes, chondrogenesis, endochondral offification, mesenchymal stem cell, articulation, cell-cell interactions, proliferation, scaffolds, matrix-generation
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