Activating enhancer binding protein 2 epsilon (AP-2ε)-deficient mice exhibit increased matrix metalloproteinase 13 expression and progressive osteoarthritis development

The transcription factor activating enhancer binding protein 2 epsilon (AP-2ε) was recently shown to be expressed during chondrogenesis as well as in articular chondrocytes of humans and mice. Furthermore, expression of AP-2ε was found to be upregulated in affected cartilage of patients with osteoarthritis (OA). Despite these findings, adult mice deficient for AP-2ε (Tfap2e(-/-)) do not exhibit an obviously abnormal cartilaginous phenotype. We therefore analyzed embryogenesis of Tfap2e(-/-) mice to elucidate potential transient abnormalities that provide information on the influence of AP-2ε o... Mehr ...