Characterization of Collagen and Its Precursors Synthesized by Rabbit‐Articular‐Cartilage Cells in Various Culture Systems

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Abstract
Rabbit articular cartilage synthesizes type II collagen, comprised of α1(II) chains, in vivo or in vitro. Chondrocytes from the same tissue have the ability to produce type I collagen with the chain composition 2α1(1).α2 or type II collagen, depending upon the culture systems in which they are maintained. Type I collagen and its precursors have been identified in the medium of monolayer cultures. Upon transfer from monolayer to suspension cultures, the cells synthesize type II collagen in the medium devoid of CaCl2 and type I collagen and its precursors in the complete medium.