Figure 2.

Silencing XIST enhances NPC viability and inhibits autophagy in vitro. (a), XIST expression in NPCs measured using RT-qPCR after transfection; (b), senescence of each group of NPCs detected by SA-β-gal staining; (c), viability of NPCs assessed using MTT assay; (d), levels of Col II and aggrecan in NPCs assessed using immunocytochemistry; (e), LC3 expression in NPCs confirmed by immunofluorescence staining; (f), formation of autophagosomes in NPCs observed under a TEM; (g), protein levels of LC3II, LC3I, p62 and Atg4B evaluated using western blot analysis. Each experiment was performed three times independently. Data are expressed as the mean ± standard deviation (n = 3); Data were analyzed by one-way, followed by Tukey’s multiple comparison test; *, compared to the empty vector group, p < 0.05; ^# compared to the si-NC group, p < 0.05