In vitro assays of chondrocyte functions: the influence of drugs and hormones.

Human articular chondrocytes may be cultured in three dimensions, according to a method already validated. This model allows us to study the repair processes of the cartilage, by measuring the proliferative activity of chondrocytes and the synthesis of two major constituents of matrix: proteoglycans and type II collagen. Some substances are characterised by stimulatory effect on DNA synthesis and no effect or a defective effect on matrix components: this is the case for Epidermal Growth Factor. Others are able to stimulate (hGH) or to depress (acetyl salicylic acid) both chondrocyte proliferation and matrix components synthesis. Finally, some substances called "chondroprotective", such as the glycosaminoglycan-peptide complex, GP-C (Rumalon) stimulate either the proliferative response or the synthesis of proteoglycans and type II collagen, according to the dose.