Transforming growth factor beta stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis in cultured rabbit articular chondrocytes.

The effect of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) on the production of matrix macromolecules was studied in cultures of rabbit articular chondrocytes. A 24 h exposure to TGF-beta at concentrations of 0.1, 1 and 10 ng/ml markedly stimulated the synthesis of collagen and non-collagen protein. Similar increases of glycosaminoglycan production was observed in the same experimental conditions. The distribution of these newly synthesized macromolecules between cell layer and medium was not altered by treatment with TGF-beta. The factor slightly enhanced the proliferation of chondrocytes in these experiments but its potent effect on matrix synthesis was independent of this growth stimulation. These results indicate that articular chondrocytes are target cells for TGF-beta and suggest that this growth factor could play a role in the repair process of cartilage during osteoarticular diseases.