Extracellular matrix (ECM) is a major component of the cell microenvironment with important signaling and regulatory functions. Derived from healthy acellular porcine hyaline cartilage, TissueSpec® cartilage matrix is rich in type II collagen with fibrous proteins, proteoglycans, hyaluronic acid (HA), and chondroitin sulfate that together regulate chondrogenesis, chondrocyte differentiation, response to mechanical stimulation, matrix remodeling, metabolism, and survival and provide biomechanical signals through cell-matrix interactions.

TissueSpec® Cartilage Hydrogels supported the chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells, which formed cartilageous tissue constructs and demonstrated increased mechanical stiffness and biochemical properties resembling native articular cartilage.