Effects of gene‑activated matrix on autograft healing of anterior cruciate ligament.

The aim of the present study was to observe the effects of gene‑activated matrix (GAM) on autograft healing of the anterior cruciate ligament. Forty‑eight rabbits were randomly divided into groups A and B. Rabbits were used to construct models of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. In group A, transforming growth factor (TGF)‑β1 was locally injected into the bone tunnel, while in group B, empty vector was administered. Tendons were removed to observe histology and ultrastructure and to evaluate biomechanics at postoperative months 1, 3 and 6. Optical microscopy revealed increased numbers of fibroblasts and collagen fibers in group A at each time‑point compared with B. Electron microscopy identified increased mitosis and abundance of fibroblasts, endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria in group A at each time‑point compared with B. No significant difference was identified in the biomechanical parameters between the 2 groups at postoperative month 1. At postoperative months 3 and 6, maximum force and elastic modulus were greater in group A compared with group B (P<0.0.5). No significant differences in other biochemical parameters were observed at these time‑points. The healing ligament graft transfected with TGF‑β1 by GAM was observed to have improved tissue structure and biomechanical characteristics. The results of the current study may provide a theoretical basis for GAM application in ligament repair.