Introduction
DEGENERATIVE CHANGE
Edited by: Michael V. Volin, Midwestern University, United StatesReviewed by: Nirmal Banda, University of Colorado Hospital, United States; Anne E. C. Nichols, University of Rochester Medical Center, United States†These authors share last authorshipDense connective tissues (DCTs) such as tendon, ligament, and cartilage are important stabilizers and force transmitters in the musculoskeletal system. The healing processes after DCT injuries are highly variable, often leading to degenerative changes and poor clinical outcome. Biomarkers in relation to repair quality for human DCTs, especially tendon are lacking. This study expands our previous findings and aimed to characterize the mechanisms by which a potential biomarker of good outcomes, complement factor D (CFD), regulates tendon healing. 