[Cartilage/chondrocyte research and osteoarthritis. Current topics and future of ligament regeneration therapy.]

Ligaments of joint have an essential role of proper mobilization and stabilization between bone and bone. Damage to ligaments caused by ageing, injury, and arthritis induce a disability of musculoskeletal system and has a problem to reduce our quality of life. To aim for the regeneration of ligaments, we have researched from the point of view of the developmet, found out that the transcription factor Mohawk has been important for the development and homeostasis of tendons and ligaments, and analyzed its function. Furthermore, we have also attempted to induce stem cells to tendon and ligament cells to produce type Ⅰ collagen fibers. In this article, we outline the mechanism of the development that has been reported including our approaches.