Chondrogenic differentiation of adult mesenchymal stem cells and embryonic stem cells

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) contraction associated with chondrogenesis is attributed to the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA). In this study, pluripotent embryonic carcinoma cells (ECCs) and MSCs were compared for cartilage histogensis. Both cell types expressed alpha-SMA in monolayer. However, when cultured in pellets and in 3-D scaffolds, only MSCs contracted and formed glycosaminoglycan (GAG)- and type II collagen-rich tissue. Under these culture conditions, MSCs appear to be superior over ECCs for cartilage regeneration.