AbstractObjectiveTo better define critical functions of the hyaluronan receptor CD44 in cartilage.MethodsArticular chondrocytes and cartilage tissue slices were treated with CD44 sequence‐specific antisense phosphorothioate oligonucleotides. CD44 expression was probed by immunofluorescence microscopy, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and Western blotting.ResultsAntisense oligonucleotides demonstrated a dose‐ and time‐dependent inhibition of CD44 protein expression; negative controls showed no effect. Similar to osteoarthritic cartilage, antisense‐treated cartilage slices displayed a near‐total loss of stainable proteoglycan‐rich matrix.ConclusionCD44 expression is needed for maintenance of cartilag
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