Genomic level regulation of GDF5 expression

Genomic level regulation of GDF5 expression. rs143383 decreases expression of GDF5 and rs242055 increases expression of GDF5OS (GDF5 anti-sense RNA) secondary to chromatin contact. GDF5OS hybridizes with GDF5OS, decreasing translation of GDF5 transcripts. Decreased levels of GDF5 protein product leads to decreased differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to fibrochondrocyte-like and fibroblast-like cells, increasing risk of meniscus injury as these cells are critical for joint stabilization and load distribution.