Fig. 3

In vitro functional studies showing distinct effects of 3D-Exo on the proliferation, apoptosis and chondrogenesis of microtia chondrocytes. A Representative images of cell apoptosis analysis and B a quantified comparison of cell early/late apoptosis among groups of PBS control, Exo 2, Exo 4 and Exo 6. C Cell proliferation assessed by the Cell Counting Kit-8 at the specific time points after exposure to PBS, Exo 2, Exo 4 and Exo 6. D Quantitative RT-PCR analysis showed regulation of genes at 48 h post-treatment associated with anti-apoptosis (Survivin, Bcl-2), proliferation (PCNA, FGF-2), as well as chondrogenic differentiation and ear cartilage matrix proteins synthesis (TGF-β1, COL2A1, ACAN, ELN, SOX9 and COMP). The genes (COL1A1 and MMP 9) unfavorable for the synthesis of hyaline cartilage and elastic cartilage were also assessed. Data was presented as the mean ± SD of three number of replicates. ∗p < 0.05, ∗∗p < 0.01, ∗∗∗p < 0.001, ∗∗∗∗p < 0.0001