Detection of mRNA for the transforming growth factor β family in human articular chondrocytes by the polymerase chain reaction

The Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF beta) family of polypeptides elicits diverse biological actions on a wide range of cell types. There are known to be several isoforms of TGF beta coded for by different genes, with possibly differential expression and potencies. We have demonstrated that there is constitutive expression of three forms of transforming growth factor beta in adult human articular chondrocytes. The presence of 10% fetal calf serum in the culture medium may influence expression. The addition of transforming growth factor beta or interleukin 1 beta to the culture medium does not appear to consistently influence the expression of TGF beta by the cells.