Differential Effects of the Antioxidants N-Acetylcysteine and Pyrrolidine Dithiocarbamate on Mesenchymal Stem Cell Chondrogenesis.

NAC demonstrated a limited ability to reduce intracellular ROS in chondrogenic culture, and generally suppressed accumulation of extracellular matrix. Conversely, PDTC was an effective antioxidant that enhanced GAG accumulation, although the concomitant reduction in compressive properties is a significant limitation for cartilage repair.