Effects of Osmotic Loading on Chondrocyte Nuclear Size

Chao, P G; Bulinski, J C; Ateshian, G A; +Hung, C T Columbia University, New York, NY [email protected] INTRODUCTION Cartilage compression changes cell shape, volume and hydrostatic and osmotic pressure of chondrocytes in situ [1,2]. For example, changes in the osmotic environment of cells have been shown to modulate chondrocyte biosynthesis, however, the mechanosensing mechanisms are not well understood [3-8]. Nuclear shape and size changes resulting from cell deformation have been suggested to alter cell function [9-12]. Furthermore, nuclear envelope integrity is modulated by microtubule (MT) organization during mitosis [13]. We have previously shown chondrocyte cell volume changes in response to static and dynamic osmotic loading [14-16]. Here, we examined the effects of osmotic loading on chondrocyte nuclear size and the potential role of MTs in mediating this response.