Figure 3.
(a) Gene ontology analysis using DAVID 6.7 for genes with a fold change of threefold shows functional gene clusters linked to extracellular matrix production that are elevated in fresh cartilage compared to allograft cartilage. (b) Examination of the expression of mRNAs encoding ECM proteins linked to cartilage phenotype (COL2A1, ACAN, DCN) and general anabolism (COL1A1, COL10A1), from the RNA-seq data shows they are enriched in the fresh cartilage tissues. (c) Gene ontology analysis demonstrates upregulation of genes linked to apoptosis and stress response in allograft cartilage. (d) Specific genes linked to stress response from RNA-seq data are shown to be expressed at higher levels in allograft cartilage.