The biosynthesis and macromolecular organization of proteoglycans was studied in explants of adult human articular cartilage. In a series of pulse-chase experiments, labelling with (35S)sulphate, it was shown that the proteoglycan monomer is synthesized as a precursor that has a low affinity for hyaluronic acid. These findings suggest a possible mechanism by which the rate of incorporation of proteoglycans into the extraceHular matrix may be controlled.
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