Transforming growth factor beta 1 and insulin-like growth factor 1 block collagen degradation induced by oncostatin M in combination with tumour necrosis factor alpha from bovine cartilage.

Oncostatin M (OSM) in combination with tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) promotes marked collagen breakdown from bovine cartilage in explant culture. This release was dependent upon matrix metalloproteinases and could be prevented by transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF beta 1) or insulin-like growth factor 1. Both growth factors reduced the expression and secretion of collagenase enzymes, and TGF beta 1 induced tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase production. This study shows for the first time that these anabolic growth factors can protect cartilage against OSM+TNF alpha induced destruction.