Conclusions
Enzymatic digestion of cartilage significantly impacts gene expression profile. We conclude that while RNA isolation from intact cartilage is more technically difficult, determination of gene expression should be conducted on intact cartilage if true representation of the in vivo processes is sought.
Results
The gene expression of SOX9, COL1A2, COL2A1, ACAN, and COLX were analyzed. Digested cartilage showed a significant decrease in the expression of COL1A2, COL2A1, and ACAN compared to intact cartilage in both joint regions, and an increase in COLX expression in non-weight bearing cartilage only. Conclusions: Enzymatic digestion of cartilage significantly impacts gene expression profile. We conclude that while RNA isolation from intact cartilage is more technically difficult, determination of gene expression should be conducted on intact cartilage if true representation of the in vivo processes is sought.