GAG/DNA ratio of the cell-hydrogel constructs and pellets after a (A)
14-day or (B) 28-day culture period. Values are expressed as mean ± SD (n
= 5 or 6 for cell-gel scaffolds and pellets). A one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s
post hoc test were performed within a timepoint (p < 0.05).* indicates a
statistical difference in GAG production from pellets without TGF-β3 (Pel
(-TGF)) within a timepoint, # indicates a statistical difference in GAG
production from the pellets with TGF-β3 (Pel) within a timepoint, and ^
indicates a statistical difference in GAG production from the collagen type I
hydrogels (Col I) within a timepoint. (C) AP activity of rabbit MSCs over time
in removed culture medium at 7, 14, 21, or 28 days (n = 8 or 9 for Col I
hydrogels, Col I/II hydrogels, and pellets with TGF-β3 (Pel) and n = 3
for pellets without TGF-β3 (Pel (-TGF))). A mixed-effect model and
Tukey’s post hoc test were performed (p < 0.05). * indicates a
statistical difference in AP activity from pellets without TGF-β3 (Pel
(-TGF)) within a timepoint, # indicates a statistical difference in AP activity
from the pellets with TGF-β3 (Pel) within a timepoint, and ^ indicates a
statistical difference in AP activity from the collagen type I hydrogels (Col I)
within a timepoint.