npj Regenerative Medicine · Published 2025-08-09 · DOI 10.1038/s41536-025-00425-y
Abstract It is widely acknowledged that articular cartilage lacks the ability to regenerate. However, if such regeneration were possible, which cell type would generate new tissue? The p21 −/− mouse provides an excellent platform to explore this question, hence, we conducted lineage tracing on Paired related homeobox 1 (Prrx1/Prx1) cells post-injury to determine whether endogenous Prx1 + cells contribute to regenerated tissues post-injury. p21 −/− mice displayed enhanced endogenous cartilage regeneration, accompanied by notable differences in the number and kinetics of Prx1 + cells within and around the injury site. In p21 −/− mice, Prx1 + cells underwent chondrogenesis, ultimately contributing to the regenerated articular cartilage layer. These findings underscore the impact of tissue-resident cells on cartilage regeneration, albeit under abnormal conditions. If the conditions within the joint could be manipulated to favor such a regenerative environment, these endogenous cell types might be recruited to facilitate the formation of a new articular cartilage surface post-injury.
Abstract from DOAJ. Public domain (CC0 1.0).
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