Abstract:

OBJECTIVE: To elaborate cartilage tissue engineering in the gene transfer technology and its application, in addition, to make a prospects for its further application.
METHODS: The database of Science Direct database (2003-01/2009-04) and CNKI (2003-01/2009-04) were retrieved with key words of “cartilage tissue engineering, gene transfer”. The literature was limited to English and Chinese languages. Literatures concerning cartilage tissue engineering in the gene transfer technology were selected, including clinical research and basic research. Other unrelated papers were excluded. Chondrocyte differentiation and gene expression were observed.
RESULTS: A total of 90 literatures were searched by computer, according to inclusive and exclusive criteria, the papers regarding cartilage tissue engineering in the gene transfection and gene types and options were analyzed. Gene transfer technology in the field of cartilage tissue engineering has broad application prospects. How to select genes associated with cartilage repair as the transfected gene need urgent solution. Currently, the used target gene can be divided into following categories, including stimulated cartilage cell proliferation and differentiation, matrix formation, inhibit chondrocyte hypertrophy and osteoblast differentiation, anti-inflammatory response, inhibit senescence and inhibit apoptosis.
CONCLUSION: It has a special significance to select the appropriate target genes, and to use a safe gene transfer method to repair cartilage. The clinical application of gene transfer technology is depended on the construction of safe and effective carriers, target genes, as well as transfection systems.