Overview over the effect of de-tensioning and TGF-β1 supplementation on mRNA expression of tendon matrix genes and growth factors.

<p>Left panel (A, D, G, J): Effect of de-tensioning, mid panel (B, E, H, K): Effect of TGF-β1 on tensioned 3D tendon-constructs, right panel (C, F, I, L): Effect of TGF-β1 on de-tensioned 3D tendon-constructs. The data are presented on a logarithmic y scale as geometric means ± SD (n = 3) where Tension Day 1 is baseline. Significant 2-way RM ANOVA (tension*time) or (TGF-β1*time) main effects written above the graphs. Open triangles: 3D tendon-construct under tension, without TGF-β1 supplementation; open circles: 3D tendon-construct de-tensioned, without TGF-β1 supplementation; filled triangles: 3D tendon-construct under tension, with TGF-β1 supplementation; filled circles: 3D tendon-construct de-tensioned, with TGF-β1 supplementation.