[Altered expression of endogenous transforming growth factor β1 and early calcification related genes in rat endplate].

Objective: To explore the relationship between endogenous transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and calcification-related genes through an in vitro degeneration model by propagating rat endplate chondrocytes during a natural degeneration process.

Methods: Endplate chondrocytes were extracted from rat lumbar vertebrae, isolated by enzyme digestion and P2 and P4 generations selected for a 6-day in vitro culture. The specimens were photographed microscopically to observe the cellular differences by alizarin red staining.