🧫 Experiment Protocol
ExploratoryTemporomandibular joint osteoarthritisCx43Isolated chondrocytesproposed
An in vitro cellular model study using isolated chondrocytes treated with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) to induce oxidative stress and investigate its effects on extracellular matrix degradation, Cx43 expression, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling. This model was designed to simulate the oxidative stress conditions that occur during TMJOA progression and to study the molecular mechanisms involving Cx43 and β-catenin interactions at the cellular level.
PRIMARY OUTCOME
Oxidative stress-induced matrix degradation and increased Cx43/β-catenin expression
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
H₂O₂ treatment would trigger oxidative stress, matrix degradation, and increased expression of both Cx43 and β-catenin
SUCCESS CRITERIA
Demonstration of oxidative stress markers, matrix degradation, and upregulated Cx43 and β-catenin expression
PROTOCOL
Treatment of isolated chondrocytes with H₂O₂ to induce oxidative stress, followed by assessment of extracellular matrix degradation, Cx43 expression, and β-catenin membrane localization