Dynamic compression alters NFκB activation and IκB-α expression in IL-1β-stimulated chondrocyte/agarose constructs

Determine the effect of IL-1β and dynamic compression on NFκB activation and IκB-α gene expression in chondrocyte/agarose constructs. Constructs were cultured under free-swelling conditions or subjected to dynamic compression for up to 360 min with IL-1β and/or PDTC (inhibits NFκB activation). Nuclear translocation of NFκB-p65 was analysed by immunofluoresence microscopy. Gene expression of IκB-α, iNOS, IL-1β and IL-4 was assessed by real-time qPCR. Nuclear translocation of NFκB-p65 was concomitant with an increase in nuclear fluorescence intensity which reached maximum values at 60 min with IL-1β (p