Expression and Function of Integrin Associated Protein (iap)/cd47 in Human Articular Cartilage

Background: Integrin-associated protein (IAP) /CD47, a member of immunoglobulin super family (IgSF), is expressed in a variety of cell types. In the present work, the expression pattern of IAP/ CD47 in normal and osteoarthritis (OA) human articular cartilage and its role in mechanotransduction pathway following mechanical stimulation have been studied. Methods: Using immunohistochemistry and standard western blotting the in vivo and in vitro expression pattern of CD47 in normal and OA human articular cartilage was assessed.The role of CD47 in mechanotransduction was evaluated by using an electrophysilogical method. Results: Immuno histochemical studies showed a similar very strong expression pattern of CD47 in both normal and OA cartilage. Electrophysilogical experiments showed a role for CD47 in chondrocyte response to mechanical stimulation. Conclusion: Very strong expression pattern of CD47 in both normal and OA chondrocyte may be a result of its critical function/s in chondrocyte homeostasis and it appears that CD47 is important in regulation of the chondrocyte response to mechanical stimulation.