The effects of storage temperature on the composition, metabolism and biomechanical properties of human articular cartilage

Osteochondral tibial specimens were stored for up to 84 days in DMEM +20% FCS at 4 or 37°C. Articular cartilage from specimens stored at 4°C showed significant proteoglycan depletion, with 78% loss in 84 days. Proteoglycan synthesis declined markedly during the first 3 days in storage. Mechanical analysis revealed cartilage stiffness to be reduced by 60% by the end of the storage period. By contrast, cartilage from specimens stored at 37°C showed no significant depletion of glycosaminoglycan and retained 66% of its initial mechanical stiffness. Proteoglycan synthesis was again reduced but the onset and magnitude of the decline was less than in samples stored at 4°C. Storage at 37°C promises to be useful in banking cartilage prior to clinical use.