The developmental control of osteoblast-specific gene expression: role of specific transcription factors and the extracellular matrix environment

Osteogenic activities of MC3T3-E1 cells on heparin-immobilized poly(caprolactone) membranes

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of heparin on the activity of osteoblast-like cells seeded on poly(caprolactone) (PCL) membranes. The membranes were prepared by solvent-casting technique in ~150 µm thickness. Then they were treated with 1,6-hexanediamine solution and functionalized with covalently bound heparin. The morphology, proliferation, and differentiation of MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts on these membranes were investigated in vitro. The heparin functionalized PCL membranes, compared to non-functionalized membranes, significantly stimulated osteoblast proliferation. The Scanning electron microscope images confirmed the stimulative effect of covalently bound heparin on the osteoblast-like cell proliferation. The alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin levels for cells proliferated on heparin containing PCL membranes were higher than that of nonfunctionalized membranes.

The Casitas B lineage lymphoma (Cbl) mutant G306E enhances osteogenic differentiation in human mesenchymal stromal cells in part by decreased Cbl-mediated platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha and fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 ubiquitination

Human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs) have the capacity to differentiate into several cell types including osteoblasts and are therefore an important cell source for bone tissue regeneration. A crucial issue is to identify mechanisms that trigger hMSC osteoblast differentiation to promote osteogenic potential. Casitas B lineage lymphoma (Cbl) is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that ubiquitinates and targets several molecules for degradation. We hypothesized that attenuation of Cbl-mediated degradation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) may promote osteogenic differentiation in hMSCs. We show here that specific inhibition of Cbl interaction with RTKs using a Cbl mutant (G306E) promotes expression of osteoblast markers (Runx2, alkaline phosphatase, type 1 collagen, osteocalcin) and increases osteogenic differentiation in clonal bone marrow-derived hMSCs and primary hMSCs. Analysis of molecular mechanisms revealed that the Cbl mutant increased PDGF receptor α and FGF receptor 2 but not EGF receptor expression in hMSCs, resulting in increased ERK1/2 and PI3K signaling. Pharmacological inhibition of FGFR or PDGFR abrogated in vitro osteogenesis induced by the Cbl mutant. The data reveal that specific inhibition of Cbl interaction with RTKs promotes the osteogenic differentiation program in hMSCs in part by decreased Cbl-mediated PDGFRα and FGFR2 ubiquitination, providing a novel mechanistic approach targeting Cbl to promote the osteogenic capacity of hMSCs.

Caffeine inhibits the viability and osteogenic differentiation of rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Caffeine is consumed extensively in Europe and North America. As a risk factor for osteoporosis, epidemiological studies have observed that caffeine can decrease bone mineral density, adversely affect calcium absorption and increase the risk of bone fracture. However, the exact mechanisms have not been fully investigated. Here, we examined the effects of caffeine on the viability and osteogenesis of rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (rBMSCs).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Cell viability, apoptosis and necrosis were quantified using thymidine incorporation and flow cytometry. Sequential gene expressions in osteogenic process were measured by real-time PCR. cAMP, alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin were assessed by immunoassay, spectrophotometry and radioimmunoassay, respectively. Mineralization was determined by calcium deposition.

KEY RESULTS

After treating BMSCs with high caffeine concentrations (0.1-1mM), their viability decreased in a concentration-dependent manner. This cell death was primarily due to necrosis and, to a small extent, apoptosis. Genes and protein sequentially expressed in osteogenesis, including Cbfa1/Runx2, collagen I, alkaline phosphatase and its protein, were significantly downregulated except for osteocalcin and its protein. Moreover, caffeine inhibited calcium deposition in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, but increased intracellular cAMP in a concentration-dependent manner.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

By suppressing the commitment of BMSCs to the osteogenic lineage and selectively inhibiting gene expression, caffeine downregulated some important events in osteogenesis and ultimately affected bone mass.

An essential role of discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR2) in osteoblast differentiation and chondrocyte maturation via modulation of Runx2 activation

Discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR2) belongs to receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family and is activated by collagen binding. Although the bone defects in Ddr2 null mice have been reported for a decade, the molecular mechanism remains unclear. This study sought to investigate the function and detailed mechanism of DDR2 in osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation. Herein we found that in preosteoblastic cells, DDR2 activation was enhanced by osteogenic induction but was not paralleled with the alteration of DDR2 expression. Under differentiated condition, downregulation of endogenous DDR2 through specific shRNA dramatically repressed osteoblastic marker gene expression and osteogenic differentiation. Enforced expression of constitutively activated DDR2 increased the expression of bone markers in both undifferentiated and differentiated osteoblasts. Importantly, molecular evidence showed that DDR2 regulated the transactivity of Runx2, a master transcription factor involved in skeletal development, by modulating its phosphorylation. Analysis of candidate protein kinases indicated that extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation is responsive to DDR2 signaling and involved in DDR2 regulation of Runx2 phosphorylation and transcriptional activity. Notably, a gain-of-function mutant of Runx2 with enhanced ERK-independent phosphorylation rescued the impaired osteogenic phenotypes observed in Ddr2-silenced cells, whereas a Runx2 mutant devoid of phosphorylation regulation by ERK inhibited DDR2 induction of osteogenesis. In addition, DDR2 facilitated Runx2 transactivation and type X collagen expression in hypertrophic chondrocytes. Thus this study reveals for the first time that DDR2 plays an essential role in osteoblast and chondrocyte differentiation. The mechanism disclosure may provide therapeutic targets for human genetic disorders caused by DDR2 deficiency.

Effects of Dicalcium Silicate Coating Ionic Dissolution Products on Human Mesenchymal Stem-Cell Proliferation and Osteogenic Differentiation

This study investigated the effects of ionic dissolution products released from dicalcium silicate (DS) coatings on human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC), cultured in the presence or absence of the dissolution products, with or without osteogenic supplements (OS). DS+ medium promoted cell proliferation during the first 4 days, but then inhibited proliferation. DS+OS− medium increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity on day 14, and upregulated runt-related transcription factor 2 and osteonectin mRNA on days 7 and 14, respectively. The addition of osteogenic supplements (DS+OS+) led to a significant increase in ALP activity from days 7 to 21, upregulation of osteogenic markers on day 14, and formation of more mineralized nodules on day 28. The results demonstrated that the ionic dissolution products from DS coating alone can partly induce osteogenic differentiation of hMSC, and that the addition of osteogenic supplements further enhances osteoblast-specific gene expression and mineralization in hMSC.

Cell-Based Fabrication of Organic/Inorganic Composite Gel Material

Biomaterials containing components similar to the native biological tissue would have benefits as an implantable scaffold material. To obtain such biomimetic materials, cells may be great contributors because of their crucial roles in synthetic organics. In addition, the synthesized organics—especially those derived from osteogenic differentiated cells—become a place where mineral crystals nucleate and grow even in vitro. Therefore, to fabricate an organic/inorganic composite material, which is similar to the biological osteoid tissue, bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were cultured in a 3D fibrin gel in this study. BMSCs secreted bone-related proteins that enhanced the biomineralization within the gel when the cells were cultured with an osteogenic differentiation medium. The compositions of both synthesized matrices and precipitated minerals in the obtained materials altered depending on the cell culture period. The mineral obtained in the 3D gel showed low crystalline hydroxyapatite. The composite materials also showed excellent osteoconductivity with new bone formation when implanted in mice tibiae. Thus, we demonstrated the contributions of cells for fabricating implantable organic/inorganic composite gel materials and a method for controlling the material composition in the gel. This cell-based material fabrication method would be a novel method to fabricate organic/inorganic composite biomimetic materials for bone tissue engineering.

Polyester copolymer scaffolds enhance expression of bone markers in osteoblast-like cells

In tissue engineering, the resorbable aliphatic polyester poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) is used as scaffolds in bone regeneration. Copolymers of poly(L-lactide)-co-(epsilon-caprolactone) [poly(LLA-co-CL)] and poly(L-lactide)-co-(1,5-dioxepan-2-one) [poly(LLA-co-DXO)], with superior mechanical properties to PLLA, have been developed to be used as scaffolds, but the influence on the osteogenic potential is unclear. This in vitro study of test scaffolds of poly(LLA-co-CL) and poly(LLA-co-DXO) using PLLA scaffolds as a control demonstrates the attachment and proliferation of human osteoblast-like cells (HOB) as measured by SEM and a methylthiazol tetrazolium (MTT) colorimetric assay, and the progression of HOB osteogenesis for up to 3 weeks; expressed as synthesis of the osteoblast differentiation markers: collagen type 1 (Col 1), alkaline phosphatase, bone sialoprotein, osteocalcin (OC), osteopontin and runt related gene 2 (Runx2). Surface analysis disclosed excellent surface attachment, spread and penetration of the cells into the pores of the test scaffolds compared to the PLLA. MTT results indicated that test scaffolds enhanced the proliferation of HOBs. Cells grown on the test scaffolds demonstrated higher synthesis of Col 1 and OC and also increased bone markers mRNA expression. Compared to scaffolds of PLLA, the poly(LLA-co-CL) and poly(LLA-co-DXO) scaffolds enhanced attachment, proliferation, and expression of osteogenic markers by HOBs in vitro. Therefore, these scaffolds might be appropriate carriers for bone engineering.

Extra-cellular matrix suppresses expression of the apoptosis mediator Fas by epigenetic DNA methylation

The extracellular matrix (ECM) of bone consists mainly of collagen type I, which induces osteoblastic differentiation and prevents apoptosis. Fas induces apoptosis in cells improperly adhering to ECM. Recently, it was described that Fas expression is modulated by epigenetic DNA methylation. Mouse MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblastic cells were cultured either on collagen coated or on uncoated culture dishes for control. mRNA was isolated and gene expression was analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR. Furthermore, we measured global and specific DNA methylation. Compared to controls, cells cultured on collagen-coated dishes increased the expression of Runx2 and OCN indicating differentiation of pre-osteoblastic cells. Additionally, collagen up-regulated cyclin-A2 and down-regulated Fas expression suggesting increased cell multiplication. Furthermore, the expression of Dnmt1 and Hells, key mediators of the DNA-methylation process, was increased. As a consequence, we demonstrate that global DNA methylation and specific methylation of the Fas promoter was higher in MC3T3-E1 cells cultured on collagen when compared to controls. Investigation of signal transduction pathways by mean of inhibitors suggests that focal adhesion kinase, MAP- and Jun-kinases and AP-1 are involved in this process. In summary, we demonstrate that ECM prevents activation of Fas by epigenetic DNA-methylation.

Hypoxia-inducible factor regulates osteoclast-mediated bone resorption: role of angiopoietin-like 4

Hypoxia and the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) transcription factor regulate angiogenic-osteogenic coupling and osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. To determine how HIF might coordinate osteoclast and osteoblast function, we studied angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4), the top HIF target gene in an Illumina HumanWG-6 v3.0 48k array of normoxic vs. hypoxic osteoclasts differentiated from human CD14⁺ monocytes (14.3-fold induction, P<0.0004). ANGPTL4 mRNA and protein were induced by 24 h at 2% O₂ in human primary osteoclasts, monocytes, and osteoblasts. ANGPTL4 protein was observed by immunofluorescence in osteoclasts and osteoblasts in vivo. Normoxic inducers of HIF (CoCl₂, desferrioxamine, and l-mimosine) and 100 ng/ml ANGPTL4 stimulated osteoclastic resorption 2- to 3-fold in assays of lacunar dentine resorption, without affecting osteoclast viability. Isoform-specific HIF-1α small interfering RNA ablated hypoxic induction of ANGPTL4 and of resorption, which was rescued by addition of exogenous ANGPTL4 (P<0.001). In the osteoblastic Saos2 cell line, ANGPTL4 caused a dose-dependent increase in proliferation (P<0.01, 100 ng/ml) and, at lower doses (1–25 ng/ml), mineralization. These results demonstrate that HIF is sufficient to enhance osteoclast-mediated bone resorption and that ANGPTL4 can compensate for HIF-1α deficiency with respect to stimulation of osteoclast activity and also augments osteoblast proliferation and differentiation.—Knowles, H. J., Cleton-Jansen, A.-M., Korsching, E., and Athanasou, N.A. Hypoxia-inducible factor regulates osteoclast-mediated bone resorption: role of angiopoietin-like 4.

Crosstalks between integrin alpha 5 and IGF2/IGFBP2 signalling trigger human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal osteogenic differentiation

BACKGROUND

The potential of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) to differentiate into functional bone forming cells provides an important tool for bone regeneration. The identification of factors that trigger osteoblast differentiation in MSCs is therefore critical to promote the osteogenic potential of human MSCs. In this study, we used microarray analysis to identify signalling molecules that promote osteogenic differentiation in human bone marrow stroma derived MSCs.

RESULTS

Microarray analysis and validation experiments showed that the expression of IGF2 and IGFBP2 was increased together with integrin alpha5 (ITGA5) during dexamethasone-induced osteoblast differentiation in human MSCs. This effect was functional since we found that IGF2 and IGFBP2 enhanced the expression of osteoblast phenotypic markers and in vitro osteogenic capacity of hMSCs. Interestingly, we showed that downregulation of endogenous ITGA5 using specific shRNA decreased IGF2 and IGFBP2 expression in hMSCs. Conversely, ITGA5 overexpression upregulated IGF2 and IGFBP2 expression in hMSCs, which indicates tight crosstalks between these molecules. Consistent with this concept, activation of endogenous ITGA5 using a specific antibody that primes the integrin, or a peptide that specifically activates ITGA5 increased IGF2 and IGFBP2 expression in hMSCs. Finally, we showed that pharmacological inhibition of FAK/ERK1/2-MAPKs or PI3K signalling pathways that are enhanced by ITGA5 activation, blunted IGF2 and IGFBP2 expression in hMSCs.

CONCLUSION

The results show that ITGA5 is a key mediator of IGF2 and IGFBP2 expression that promotes osteoblast differentiation in human MSCs, and reveal that crosstalks between ITGA5 and IGF2/IGFBP2 signalling are important mechanisms that trigger osteogenic differentiation in human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stromal cells.

Surface engineering of titanium with potassium hydroxide and its effects on the growth behavior of mesenchymal stem cells

To improve the corrosion resistance and biological performance of commercially pure titanium (cp-Ti) substrates, potassium hydroxide was employed to modify the surfaces of titanium substrates, followed by biomimetic deposition of apatite on the substrates in a simulated body fluid. The morphologies of native and treated titanium substrates were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Treatment with potassium hydroxide led to the formation of intermediate layers of potassium titanate on the surfaces of titanium substrates, while apatite was subsequently deposited onto the intermediate layer. The formation of potassium titanate and apatite was confirmed by thin-film X-ray diffraction and FE-SEM equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy, respectively. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy showed that the formed potassium titanate layer improved the corrosion-resistance properties of titanium substrates. The influence of modified titanium substrates on the biological behavior of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), including osteogenic differentiation, was investigated in vitro. Compared with cp-Ti substrates, MSCs cultured onto alkali- and heat-treated titanium substrates and apatite-deposited titanium substrates displayed significantly higher (P<0.05 or P<0.01) proliferation and differentiation levels of alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin in 7 and 14day cultures, respectively. More importantly, our results suggest that the modified titanium substrates have great potential for inducing MSCs to differentiate into osteoblasts. The approach presented here may be exploited to fabricate titanium-based implants.

Zinc deficiency suppresses matrix mineralization and retards osteogenesis transiently with catch-up possibly through Runx 2 modulation

A characteristic sign of zinc deficiency is retarded skeletal growth, but the role of zinc in osteoblasts is not well understood. Two major events for bone formation include osteoblast differentiation by bone marker gene expression, which is mainly regulated by bone-specific transcription factor Runx2 and extracellular matrix (ECM) mineralization by Ca deposits for bone nodule formation. We investigated whether zinc deficiency down-regulates bone marker gene transcription and whether this might occur through modulation of Runx2. We also investigated whether zinc deficiency decreases ECM mineralization in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells. In the presence of 5 mumol/L TPEN as zinc chelator, zinc deficiency (ZnD: 1 micromol Zn/L) decreased bone marker gene (collagen type I, osteopontin, alkaline phosphatase, osteoclacin and parathyroid hormone receptor) expression, as compared to normal osteogenic medium (OSM) or zinc adequate medium (ZnA: 15 micromol/L) (P<0.05) both at 5 days (proliferation) and 15 days (matrix maturation). Decreased bone marker gene transcription by zinc deficiency could be caused by decreased nuclear Runx2 protein (P=0.05) and transcript (P<0.05) levels in ZnD. Furthermore, within the first 24 h of differentiation when Runx2 expression is induced, maximal Runx2 mRNA and nuclear protein levels were delayed in ZnD compared to OSM and ZnA. ECM Ca deposition was also lower in ZnD, which was also indirectly confirmed by detection of decreased cellular (synthesized) and medium (secreted) ALP activity as well as matrix ALP activity. Taken together, zinc deficiency attenuated osteogenic activity by decreasing bone marker gene transcription through reduced and delayed Runx2 expression and by decreasing ECM mineralization through inhibition of ALP activity in osteoblasts. Decreased and delayed bone marker gene, Runx2 expression and ECM mineralization in osteoblasts by zinc deficiency can be a potential explanation for the retarded skeletal growth which is the major zinc deficiency syndrome.

Multipathway kinase signatures of multipotent stromal cells are predictive for osteogenic differentiation: tissue-specific stem cells

Bone marrow-derived multipotent stromal cells (MSCs) offer great promise for regenerating tissue. Although certain transcription factors have been identified in association with tendency toward particular MSC differentiation phenotypes, the regulatory network of key receptor-mediated signaling pathways activated by extracellular ligands that induce various differentiation responses remains poorly understood. Attempts to predict differentiation fate tendencies from individual pathways in isolation are problematic due to the complex pathway interactions inherent in signaling networks. Accordingly, we have undertaken a multivariate systems approach integrating experimental measurement of multiple kinase pathway activities and osteogenic differentiation in MSCs, together with computational analysis to elucidate quantitative combinations of kinase signals predictive of cell behavior across diverse contexts. In particular, for culture on polymeric biomaterial surfaces presenting tethered epidermal growth factor, type I collagen, neither, or both, we have found that a partial least-squares regression model yields successful prediction of phenotypic behavior on the basis of two principal components comprising the weighted sums of eight intracellular phosphoproteins: phospho-epidermal growth factor receptor, phospho-Akt, phospho-extracellular signal-related kinase 1/2, phospho-heat shock protein 27, phospho-c-Jun, phospho-glycogen synthase kinase 3alpha/beta, phospho-p38, and phospho-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3. This combination provides the strongest predictive capability for 21-day differentiated phenotype status when calculated from day-7 signal measurements; day-4 and day-14 signal measurements are also significantly predictive, indicating a broad time frame during MSC osteogenesis wherein multiple pathways and states of the kinase signaling network are quantitatively integrated to regulate gene expression, cell processes, and ultimately, cell fate.

Cell interactions in bone tissue engineering

Bone fractures, where the innate regenerative bone response is compromised, represent between 4 and 8 hundred thousands of the total fracture cases, just in the United States. Bone tissue engineering (TE) brought the notion that, in cases such as those, it was preferable to boost the healing process of bone tissue instead of just adding artificial parts that could never properly replace the native tissue. However, despite the hype, bone TE so far could not live up to its promises and new bottom-up approaches are needed. The study of the cellular interactions between the cells relevant for bone biology can be of essential importance to that. In living bone, cells are in a context where communication with adjacent cells is almost permanent. Many fundamental works have been addressing these communications nonetheless, in a bone TE approach, the 3D perspective, being part of the microenvironment of a bone cell, is as crucial. Works combining the study of cell-to-cell interactions in a 3D environment are not as many as expected. Therefore, the bone TE field should not only gain knowledge from the field of fundamental Biology but also contribute for further understanding the biology of bone. In this review, a summary of the main works in the field of bone TE, aiming at studying cellular interactions in a 3D environment, and how they contributed towards the development of a functional engineered bone tissue, is presented.

Extracellular matrix remodeling, integrin expression, and downstream signaling pathways influence the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells on poly(lactide-co-glycolide) substrates

The possibility of using multipotent adult bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for tissue-engineering applications hinges on the ability to predictably control their differentiation. Previously, we showed the osteogenic potential of adult bone marrow-derived MSCs cultured on thin films of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) depends in part on the identity of extracellular matrix (ECM) ligands initially deposited onto the material from serum in the culture medium. Here we have addressed the hypothesis that remodeling of the PLGA surface via the de novo synthesis of ECM proteins by the MSCs may also play an important role in governing their osteogenic differentiation. Supporting this hypothesis, increasing amounts of fibronectin and type-I collagen were synthesized and deposited onto thin-film PLGA substrates, whereas vitronectin levels diminished over a 28-day time course. Integrin expression profiles changed accordingly, with higher levels of alpha2beta1 and alpha5beta1 than alphavbeta3 at three different time points. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphatidyl inositol-3-kinase (PI3K) pathways were also activated in MSCs cultured on these substrates, and their inhibition significantly inhibited osteogenic differentiation as assessed according to alkaline phosphatase activity and mineral deposition. These data indicate that initial ECM deposition, subsequent matrix remodeling, and corresponding integrin expression profiles influence osteogenesis in MSCs cultured on PLGA in part by engaging MAPK and PI3K signaling pathways. Understanding the mechanisms by which stem cells respond to different polymers will be critical in their eventual therapeutic use.

Use of small interfering ribonucleic acids to inhibit the adipogenic effect of alcohol on human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal cells

This study tested the potential of small interfering RNAs (siRNA) targeting human peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) to repress the adipogenic effect of alcohol on human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal cells (hBMSCs). hBMSCs were cultured from hip replacement surgery patients (n = 10). PPARγ-siRNA was transiently transfected into hBMSCs cultured in ostogenic media containing 50 mM alcohol by using a liposome-based strategy. Oil red O staining was used to test the development of differentiated adipocytes, and Alizarin red staining was used to test mineral deposition. Marker genes of adipogenesis (PPARγ2 and aP2) and osteogenesis (Osf2/Cbfa1) were examined through real time RT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. Collagen type I, alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin protein synthesis of cultures were also assayed. Data were presented as mean ± SD. Differences between the means of the treatment groups were determined with ANOVA. PPARγ-siRNA transfection resulted in significantly lower adipocyte number, increased matrix mineralisation, repressed adipogenic gene markers, up-regulated osteogenic gene marker and bone matrix protein synthesis in the PPARγ-siRNA group compared to controls (P < 0.05). PPARγ-siRNA is a useful strategy to inhibit the adipogenic effect and the osteogenic repression of alcohol on hBMSCs. This may be a novel therapeutic intervention for osteopenic disorders in alcoholism and other conditions.

Priming integrin alpha5 promotes human mesenchymal stromal cell osteoblast differentiation and osteogenesis

Adult human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs) have the potential to differentiate into chondrogenic, adipogenic, or osteogenic lineages, providing a potential source for tissue regeneration. An important issue for efficient bone regeneration is to identify factors that can be targeted to promote the osteogenic potential of hMSCs. Using transcriptome analysis, we found that integrin alpha5 (ITGA5) expression is up-regulated during dexamethasone-induced osteoblast differentiation of hMSCs. Gain-of-function studies showed that ITGA5 promotes the expression of osteoblast phenotypic markers and in vitro osteogenesis of hMSCs. Down-regulation of endogenous ITGA5 using specific shRNAs blunted osteoblast marker gene expression and osteogenic differentiation. Molecular analyses showed that the enhanced osteoblast differentiation induced by ITGA5 was mediated by activation of focal adhesion kinase/ERK1/2-MAPKs and PI3K signaling pathways. Remarkably, activation of endogenous ITGA5 using agonists such as a specific antibody that primes the integrin or a peptide that specifically activates ITGA5 was sufficient to enhance ERK1/2-MAPKs and PI3K signaling and to promote osteoblast differentiation and osteogenic capacity of hMSCs. Importantly, we demonstrated that hMSCs engineered to overexpress ITGA5 exhibited a marked increase in their osteogenic potential in vivo. Taken together, these findings not only reveal that ITGA5 is required for osteoblast differentiation of adult hMSCs but also provide a targeted strategy using ITGA5 agonists to promote the osteogenic capacity of hMSCs. This may be used for tissue regeneration in bone disorders where the recruitment or capacity of hMSCs is compromised.

BMP-4 induction of arrest and differentiation of osteoblast-like cells via p21 CIP1 and p27 KIP1 regulation

Cell cycle regulation by differentiation signals is critical for eukaryote development. We investigated the roles of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-4, an important stimulator of osteoblast differentiation and bone formation, in regulating cell cycle distribution in four osteoblast-like cell lines and mouse primary osteoblasts, and the underlying mechanisms. In all cells used, BMP-4 induced G(0)/G(1) arrest. The molecular basis of the BMP-4 effect was analyzed, and the presentation on molecular mechanism is focused on human MG63 cells. BMP-4 induced p21(CIP1) and p27(KIP1) expressions and hence cell differentiation but had no effects on the expressions of cyclins A, B1, D1, and E, cyclin-dependent protein kinase-2, -4, and -6. Using specific small interfering RNA (siRNA), we found that BMP-4-induced G(0)/G(1) arrest, and p21(CIP1) and p27(KIP1) expressions were mediated by BMP receptor type IA (BMPRIA)-specific Sma- and Mad-related protein (Smad)1/5. BMP-4 induced transient phosphorylations of ERK; transfection of MG63 cells with ERK2, but not ERK1, -specific siRNA inhibited the BMP-4-induced responses in MG63 cells. Pretreatment of MG63 cells with Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser, which blocks the cell-extracellular matrix interaction, or transfection with beta(3) integrin-specific siRNA inhibited BMP-4-induced ERK and Smad1/5 phosphorylations. BMP-4 induced transient increases in associations of beta(3)-integrin with focal adhesion kinase and Shc, the dominant-negative mutants of which inhibited BMP-4-induced ERK and Smad1/5 phosphorylations. Our results indicate that BMP-4 induces G(0)/G(1) arrest and hence differentiation in osteoblast-like cells through increased expressions of p21(CIP1) and p27(KIP1), which are mediated by BMPRIA-specific Smad1/5. The extracellular matrix/beta(3) integrin/ focal adhesion kinase/Shc/ERK2 signaling pathway is involved in these BMP-4-induced responses in osteoblast-like cells.

PTH and PTHrP signaling in osteoblasts

The striking clinical benefit of PTH in osteoporosis began a new era of skeletal anabolic agents. Several studies have been performed, new studies are emerging out and yet controversies remain on PTH anabolic action in bone. This review focuses on the molecular aspects of PTH and PTHrP signaling in light of old players and recent advances in understanding the control of osteoblast proliferation, differentiation and function.

Implant surface treatments affect gene expression of Runx2, osteogenic key marker

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The aim of this study was to study the effects of various surface treatments to a titanium surface on the expression of Runx2 in vitro.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Human Osteosarcoma TE-85 cells were cultured on machined, sandblasted, or anodic oxidized cpTi discs. At various times of incubation, the cells were collected and then processed for the analysis of mRNA expression of Runx2 using reverse transcription-PCR.

RESULTS

The expression pattern of Runx2 mRNA was differed according to the types of surface treatment. When the cells were cultured on the untreated control culture plates, the gene expression of Runx2 was not increased during the experiments. In the case of that the cells were cultured on the machined cpTI discs, the expression level was intermediate at the first day, but increased constitutively to day 5. In cells on sandblasted cpTi discs, the expression level was highest in the first day sample and the level was maintained to 5 days. In cells on anodized cpTi discs, the expression level increased rapidly to 3 days, but decreased slightly in the 5-th day sample.

CONCLUSION

Different surface treatments may contribute to the regulation of osteoblast function by influencing the level of gene expression of key osteogenic factors.

Mechanical force induces type I collagen expression in human periodontal ligament fibroblasts through activation of ERK/JNK and AP-1

Type I collagen (COL I) is the predominant collagen in the extracellular matrix of periodontal ligament (PDL), and its expression in PDL fibroblasts (PLF) is sensitive to mechanical force. However, the mechanism by which PLF induces COL I to respond to mechanical force is unclear. This study examined the nature of human PLF in mediating COL I expression in response to centrifugal force. Signal transduction pathways in the early stages of mechanotransduction involved in the force-driven regulation of COL I expression were also investigated. Centrifugal force up-regulated COL I without cytotoxicity and activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 kinase. ERK and JNK inhibitor blocked the expression of COL I but p38 kinase inhibitor had no effect. Centrifugal force activated activator protein-1 (AP-1) through dimerization between c-Fos and c-Jun transcription factors. ERK and JNK inhibitors also inhibited AP-1-DNA binding, c-Fos nuclear translocation, and c-Jun phosphorylation that were increased in the force-exposed PLF. Further, transfecting the cells with c-Jun antisense oligonucleotides almost completely abolished the force-induced increase of c-Jun phosphorylation and COL I induction. Our findings suggest that mechanical signals are transmitted into the nucleus by ERK/JNK signaling pathways and then stimulate COL I expression through AP-1 activation in force-exposed human PLF.

ECM compliance regulates osteogenesis by influencing MAPK signaling downstream of RhoA and ROCK

The compliance of the extracellular matrix (ECM) regulates osteogenic differentiation by modulating extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activity. However, the molecular mechanism linking ECM compliance to the ERK-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway remains unclear. Furthermore, RhoA has been widely implicated in integrin-mediated signaling and mechanotransduction. We studied the relationship between RhoA and ERK-MAPK signaling to determine their roles in the regulation of osteogenesis by ECM compliance. Inhibition of RhoA and ROCK in MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts cultured on substrates of varying compliance reduced ERK activity, whereas constitutively active RhoA enhanced it. The expression of RUNX2, a potent osteogenic transcription factor, was increased on stiffer matrices and correlated with elevated ERK activity. Inhibition of RhoA, ROCK, or the MAPK pathway diminished RUNX2 activity and delayed the onset of osteogenesis as shown by altered osteocalcin (OCN) and bone sialoprotein (BSP) gene expression, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and matrix mineralization. These data establish that one possible mechanism by which ECM rigidity regulates osteogenic differentiation involves MAPK activation downstream of the RhoA-ROCK signaling pathway.

Gene expression analysis of osteoblasts seeded in coral scaffold

Coral matrix of Porites sp. has the suitable properties for bone cell growth. This study was aimed to study the gene expression levels of osteoblast specific genetic markers; RUNX2, osteopontin, alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin from osteoblasts seeded in coral scaffold, which are important in determining the feasibility of osteoblasts. Human osteoblasts were inoculated onto the processed coral in Dulbecco's Minimum Essential Medium. The cells were trypsinized on day 1, 7, 14, 18, and 21 and added with RNALater for preservation of RNA in cells. The RNA was extracted using commercial RNA extraction kit and the respective genes were amplified using RT-PCR kit and analyzed qualitatively on 1.5% agarose gel. The expressions were evaluated with the Integrated Density Value based on the intensity of band for different periods of cell harvest. Increased expressions of the RUNX2, osteopontin, alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin genes in the present study proved that coral is a favorable carrier for osteogenetically competent cells to attach and remain viable.

Evaluation of the zein/inorganics composite on biocompatibility and osteoblastic differentiation

We have previously studied the biocompatibility and mechanical properties of porous zein scaffolds. We based the study on the concept that composite scaffold materials, especially when combined with inorganic materials, are more suited to the mechanical and physiological demands of the host tissue than individual scaffold materials. We investigated the effect of zein/inorganic composite on the physical and biological properties of porous zein scaffolds, which were fabricated by salt-leaching. The composite was prepared by immersion in simulated body fluid. The hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated zein scaffold had the same porosity as the zein scaffold (over 75%). Using scanning electron microscopy, it was established that the morphology of pores located on the surface and within the porous scaffolds showed equally good pore interconnectivity with zein. However, the compressive Young's modulus decreased from 240.1+/-96.8 to 34.4+/-12.6MPa, and compressive strength decreased from 7.8+/-1.2 to 4.2+/-0.8MPa. From the in vitro test with human bone marrow stroma cells, the osteoblastic differentiation on the surface of the HA-coated zein scaffold was increased, as expressed by the alkaline phosphatase activity and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis for marker genes. From both the mechanical and biological evaluations, the HA-coated zein scaffold was found to be the optimal biomaterial for bone tissue engineering.

Role of MAPK in mechanical force-induced up-regulation of type I collagen and osteopontin in human gingival fibroblasts

In addition to periodontal ligament, the gingival plays an important role in alveolar bone remodeling induced by physiological and mechanical stimuli. However, there are few reports showing the cellular responses of human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) to a mechanical force. This study examined the effects of centrifugal force on the proliferation of the bone tissue components, such as type I collagen (COL I), osteopontin (OPN), and osteonectin (ONN) in the HGF. The roles of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p-38 kinase were also investigated. Centrifugal force induced cell cycle arrest in the G(1) phase without any cytotoxic effects and increased the levels of COL I and OPN expression in the cells but had no effect on ONN. The force-induced up-regulation of COL I was found to be mediated by both the ERK-c-Fos-COL I and JNK-c-Jun-COL I pathways, while that of OPN was mediated only by the ERK-mediated pathway. Our present findings suggest that centrifugal force up-regulates COL I and OPN expression in HGF, where both ERK and JNK play indispensable roles.

The influence of an in vitro generated bone-like extracellular matrix on osteoblastic gene expression of marrow stromal cells

The function and development of cells rely heavily on the signaling interactions with the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM). Therefore, a tissue engineering scaffold should mimic native ECM to recreate the in vivo environment. Previously, we have shown that an in vitro generated ECM secreted by cultured cells enhances the mineralized matrix deposition of marrow stromal cells (MSCs). In this study, MSC expression of 45 bone-related genes using real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was determined. Upregulation of osteoblastic markers such as collagen type I, matrix extracellular phosphoglycoprotein with ASARM motif, parathyroid hormone receptor, and osteocalcin, indicated that the MSCs on plain titanium scaffolds differentiated down the osteoblastic lineage and deposited a mineralized matrix on day 12. Significant mineralized matrix deposition was observed as early as day 4 on ECM-containing scaffolds and was associated with the enhancement in expression of a subset of osteoblast-specific genes that included a 2-fold increase in osteopontin expression at day 1 and a 6.5-fold increase in osteocalcin expression at day 4 as well as downregulation of chondrogenic gene markers. These results were attributed to the cellular interactions with growth factors and matrix molecules that are likely present in the in vitro generated ECM since the genes for insulin-like growth factor 1, insulin-like growth factor 2, vascular endothelial growth factor, dentin matrix protein, collagen type IV, cartilage oligomeric protein, and matrix metalloproteinase 13 were significantly upregulated during ECM construct generation. Overall, the data demonstrate that modulation of MSC differentiation occurs at the transcriptional level and gene expression of bone-related proteins is differentially regulated by the ECM. This study presents enormous implications for tissue engineering strategies, as it demonstrates that modification of a biomaterial with an in vitro generated ECM containing cell-generated bioactive signaling molecules can effectively direct gene expression and differentiation of seeded progenitor cell populations.

Molecular basis for skeletal variation: insights from developmental genetic studies in mice

Skeletal variations are common in humans, and potentially are caused by genetic as well as environmental factors. We here review molecular principles in skeletal development to develop a knowledge base of possible alterations that could explain variations in skeletal element number, shape or size. Environmental agents that induce variations, such as teratogens, likely interact with the molecular pathways that regulate skeletal development.

Wnt10b increases postnatal bone formation by enhancing osteoblast differentiation

Overexpression of Wnt10b from the osteocalcin promoter in transgenic mice increases postnatal bone mass. Increases in osteoblast perimeter, mineralizing surface, and bone formation rate without detectable changes in pre-osteoblast proliferation, osteoblast apoptosis, or osteoclast number and activity suggest that, in this animal model, Wnt10b primarily increases bone mass by stimulating osteoblastogenesis.

INTRODUCTION

Wnt signaling regulates many aspects of development including postnatal accrual of bone. Potential mechanisms for how Wnt signaling increases bone mass include regulation of osteoblast and/or osteoclast number and activity. To help differentiate between these possibilities, we studied mice in which Wnt10b is expressed specifically in osteoblast lineage cells or in mice devoid of Wnt10b.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Transgenic mice, in which mouse Wnt10b is expressed from the human osteocalcin promoter (Oc-Wnt10b), were generated in C57BL/6 mice. Transgene expression was evaluated by RNase protection assay. Quantitative assessment of bone variables was done by radiography, muCT, and static and dynamic histomorphometry. Mechanisms of bone homeostasis were evaluated with assays for BrdU, TUNEL, and TRACP5b activity, as well as serum levels of C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX). The endogenous role of Wnt10b in bone was assessed by dynamic histomorphometry in Wnt10b(-/-) mice.

RESULTS

Oc-Wnt10b mice have increased mandibular bone and impaired eruption of incisors during postnatal development. Analyses of femoral distal metaphyses show significantly higher BMD, bone volume fraction, and trabecular number. Increased bone formation is caused by increases in number of osteoblasts per bone surface, rate of mineral apposition, and percent mineralizing surface. Although number of osteoclasts per bone surface is not altered, Oc-Wnt10b mice have increased total osteoclast activity because of higher bone mass. In Wnt10b(-/-) mice, changes in mineralizing variables and osteoblast perimeter in femoral distal metaphyses were not observed; however, bone formation rate is reduced because of decreased total bone volume and trabecular number.

CONCLUSIONS

High bone mass in Oc-Wnt10b mice is primarily caused by increased osteoblastogenesis, with a minor contribution from elevated mineralizing activity of osteoblasts.

Bone morphogenic protein and its application in trauma cases: a current concept update

BACKGROUND

Bone morphogenic proteins (BMP) have shown tremendous potential in bone formation at fracture sites and at non-union sites. Animal studies and limited human studies have proven their efficacy as an alternative or enhancer of autologus bone graft in bone regeneration. The action of BMP is mediated through receptor kinases and transcription factors called Smads that regulate the expression of target genes. In preclinical studies, it was observed that BMP is relatively devoid of adverse effects and carcinogenicity but further studies are needed to clarify the issue of ectopic bone formation before its extensive use in humans.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This review article intends to give brief information on biology and basic science of BMP and provide an overview on the current research data on clinical application of BMP in the treatment of fractures and difficult non-unions.

RESULTS

Various studies have shown that BMP holds promise in the management of delayed unions and recalcitrant non-unions. It has also been observed to initiate faster healing resulting in less pain and infection at the fracture site in open fractures. However the role of BMP in fresh fractures is debatable.

CONCLUSION

Judicious use of BMP in certain clinical scenarios may revolutionise management of non-unions and delayed unions. The major constraints for routine use of BMP are inadequate clinical trials in humans and the need to comprehensively assess the cost-effectiveness and budget impact of BMP.

Bone Directed Therapies for Prostate Cancer

PURPOSE

Bone is the most common site of metastatic disease in prostate cancer and the lead cause of significant morbidity. Preclinical and clinical studies have provided insight into the pathophysiology of bone metastases and the changes that occur in the bone microenvironment that result in a favorable site of growth for prostate cancer. We provide an overview of recent advances in understanding bone biology, and bone targeted therapy research and development.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed recent research findings related to the biology of bone metastases, approaches to targeting osteoclast function, approaches to targeting osteoblasts and advances in assessing the treatment response to bone targeted therapies in the context of prostate cancer management.

RESULTS

To date targeting some of the key players in the bone microenvironment has not been associated with a significant antitumor effect or with meaningful clinical benefit in phase III randomized trials. A significant limitation in the development of bone targeted therapy has been the inability to objectively assess treatment response. Investigation of improved imaging techniques are ongoing to provide better treatment assessment and, therefore, allow more rapid drug screening and development.

CONCLUSIONS

It is our recommendation that future therapy development should be combination based, focusing on simultaneous targeting of multiple relevant pathways. Most important of all is the direct targeting of prostate cancer cells.

Semi-quantitative RT-PCR analysis of LIM mineralization protein 1 and its associated molecules in cultured human dental pulp cells

OBJECTIVE

LIM mineralization protein 1 (LMP-1), an intracellular signaling molecule, regulates osteoblast differentiation and maturation, as well as bone formation. However, the role of LMP-1 in the differentiation of human dental pulp cells and formation of dentin has not been determined. The study was to investigate the expression of LMP-1, the related proteins, such as bone morphogenetic proteins 2, 6 and 7 (BMP-2, BMP-6 and BMP-7), and core binding factor alpha 1 (Cbfa1) during the differentiation of cultured human dental pulp cells and the formation of mineralized nodules.

DESIGN

Differentiation of human dental pulp cells was induced by dexamethasone, asorbic acid and beta-glycerophosphate. The formation of mineralized nodules, was determined by Von Kossa staining and immunocytochemistry detection of dentin sialoprotein. Expression of LMP-1, the related proteins and the differentiation marker alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was analysed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

RESULTS

The expression of LMP-1, BMP-2, BMP-6, BMP-7 and Cbfa1 was significantly increased in the process of dental pulp cells differentiation and the formation of mineralized nodules, while the pattern of the expression was distinct.

CONCLUSIONS

The elevated level of LMP-1, BMPs and Cbfa1 expression indicated they might play a role in the differentiation of human dental pulp cells and the formation of mineralized nodules.

Type III collagen is essential for growth acceleration of human osteoblastic cells by ascorbic acid 2-phosphate, a long-acting vitamin C derivative

Collagen has been reported to be essential for the proliferation of various kinds of cells including human osteoblastic cells [Takamizawa, S., Maehata, Y., Imai, K., Senoo, H., Sato, S., Hata, R., 2004. Effects of ascorbic acid and ascorbic acid 2-phosphate, a long-acting vitamin C derivative, on the proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblast-like cells. Cell Biol. Int. 28, 255-265], but the type(s) of collagen responsible for growth regulation is not known. Presently we found that ascorbic acid 2-phosphate, a long-acting vitamin C derivative, stimulated both cell growth and the expression of mRNA for type III collagen in human osteoblast-like MG-63 cells and in normal human osteoblasts, as well as in human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, but not the expression of type I collagen in these cells. Epidermal growth factor also stimulated both cell growth and expression of type III collagen mRNA in MG-63 cells. Among MG-63 cell clones, their growth rates correlated significantly with their COL3A1 messenger RNA levels but not with their COL1A1 or COL1A2 messenger RNA levels. Transfection of MG-63 cells with siRNA for COL3A1 but not with that for COL1A1 decreased the growth rates of the transfected cells concomitant with a drop in the level of COL3A1 mRNA. Furthermore, cell proliferation as observed by thymidine incorporation into DNA and cell number was increased when MG-63 cells were cultured on type III collagen-coated dishes. Taken together, our results indicate that type III collagen is the collagen component responsible for the growth stimulation of human osteoblastic cells.

Multifunctional hydrogels that promote osteogenic hMSC differentiation through stimulation and sequestering of BMP2

The extracellular environment controls many cellular activities thereby linking external material cues to internal cell function. By better understanding these processes, synthetic extracellular material niches can be tailored to present cells with highly regulated physical and/or chemical cues that promote or suppress selected cell functions. Here, poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels were functionalized with fluvastatin-releasing grafts and growth factor binding heparin domains to enable the dynamic exchange of information between the material and cells from the outside-in and inside-out (i.e., bidirectional signaling). By incorporating a fluvastatin-releasing graft and carefully controlling the dose and temporal release, materials were designed to promote bone morphogenic protein (BMP2) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) production by human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). When the release of fluvastatin was controlled to occur over 2 weeks, BMP2 and ALP production was increased 2.2-fold and 1.7-fold, respectively, at day 28 compared to hMSCs cultured in the absence of fluvastatin. By introducing a heparin functionality into the gel to sequester and localize the hMSC-produced BMP2, the osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs was further augmented over fluvastatin delivery alone. Osteopontin and core binding factor α1 gene expression was 6-fold and 4-fold greater for hMSCs exposed to fluvastatin in the presence of the heparin functionalities, respectively. These results demonstrate how multifunctional gels that interact with cells in a bidirectional manner can efficiently promote selected cell functions, such as the osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs.

Microrough titanium surface affects biologic response in MG63 osteoblast-like cells

The purpose of this study was to define the surface properties of prepared titanium (Ti) disks, which served as a model system, and to contrast the biologic response of MG63 cells exposed to Ti disks with different levels of surface roughness. The surface properties interact with each other, resulting in a change of other surface qualities in addition to roughness due to the surface roughening procedure. The machined Ti disks were roughened by sandblasting and electric glow discharging. The surface properties of the Ti specimens were inspected through a comprehensive surface analysis. MG63 cell behaviors were compared along with cell number, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, Runx2 gene expression, and type I collagen production. Statistics were evaluated, using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The sandblasted Ti disks demonstrated well-controlled surface roughness features and meaningful average roughness ranges, including the surface roughness of the "modern" microrough implant, used clinically. With increasing Ti surface roughness, the cell number decreased, while the ALP activity, type I collagen production, and Runx2 gene expression increased significantly. The rougher the Ti surface was, the sooner the Runx2 gene was expressed. Based on these results, we suggest that the microrough Ti surfaces of the 1-3 mum range may contribute effectively to osteogenic differentiation and proliferation in MG63 cells.

Transcriptome analysis reveals an osteoblast-like phenotype for human osteotropic breast cancer cells

Metastatic breast cancer cells exhibit the selective ability to seed and grow in the skeleton. We and others have previously reported that human breast tumors which metastasize to the skeleton overexpress bone matrix extracellular proteins. In an attempt to reveal the osteoblast-like phenotype of osteotropic breast cancer cells, we performed a microarray study on a model of breast cancer bone metastasis consisting of the MDA-MB-231 human cell line and its variant B02 selected for its high capacity to form bone metastases in vivo. Analysis of B02 cells transcriptional profile revealed that 11 and 9 out of the 50 most up- and down-regulated mRNAs, respectively, corresponded to genes which expression has been previously associated with osteoblastic differentiation process. Thus, osteoblast specific cadherin 11 which mediates the differentiation of mesenchymal cells into osteoblastic cells is up-regulated in B02. While S100A4, recently described as a key negative regulator of osteoblast differentiation, is the most down-regulated gene in B02 cells. RT-PCR and western blotting experiments allowed the validation of the modulation of several genes of interest. Using immunohistochemistry, performed on human breast primary tumors and their matched liver and bone metastases, we were able to confirm that the osteoblast-like pattern of gene expression observed in our model holds true in vivo. This is the first report demonstrating a gene-expression pattern corresponding to the acquisition of an osteomimetic phenotype by bone metastatic breast cancer cells.

Proliferation and osteoblastic differentiation of human bone marrow-derived stromal cells on akermanite-bioactive ceramics

In the present study, the effects of a calcium magnesium silicate bioactive ceramic (akermanite) on proliferation and osteoblastic differentiation of human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSC) have been investigated and compared with the classical ceramic (beta-tricalcium phosphate, beta-TCP). Akermanite and beta-TCP disks were seeded with hBMSC and kept in growth medium or osteogenic medium for 10 days. Proliferation and osteoblastic differentiation were evaluated on day 1, 4, 7 and 10. The data from the Alamar Blue assay and lactic acid production assay showed that hBMSC proliferated more significantly on akermanite than on beta-TCP. The analysis of osteoblast-related genes, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteopontin (OPN), bone sialoprotein (BSP) and osteocalcin (OC), indicated that akermanite ceramics enhanced the expression of osteoblast-related genes, but type I collagen (COL I) showed no noticeable difference among akermanite and beta-TCP ceramics. Furthermore, this stimulatory effect was observed not only in osteogenic medium, but also in normal growth medium without osteogenic reagents such as l-ascorbic acid, glycerophosphate and dexamethasone. This result suggests that akermanite can promote osteoblastic differentiation of hBMSC in vitro even without osteogenic reagents, and may be used as a bioactive material for bone regeneration and tissue engineering applications.

Substrate induction of osteogenesis from marrow-derived mesenchymal precursors

Therapeutic modalities aimed at bone regeneration are increasingly employing extracellular matrix (ECM) constituents to control bone marrow progenitor cell (BMPC) commitment, growth, and differentiation. However, the precise role these ECM elements play during stem cell differentiation remains unclear. (See also Salaszynk et al., Stem Cells Dev 14(6):608-620, 2005; and Schwartz et al., Stem Cells Dev. 14(6), 643-655, 2005, both in this issue.) Because bone formation ultimately begins with the recruitment and commitment of BMPCs into the osteogenic lineage, factors that enhance this process are clearly therapeutic targets. We hypothesized that BMPC attachment, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation would be potentiated when cultured on ECM proteins normally found in the bone niche. To examine this, we cultured murine BMPCs on laminin-1, fibronectin, and collagen type-1 substrates for up to 14 days and assessed their homogeneity, attachment, proliferation, and expression of the specific bone lineage markers RUNX2, collagen-1, alkaline phosphatase, and osteocalcin. We found that freshly harvested mBMPCs contain a mixed population of progenitor cells and that the mesenchymal pool can be enriched by adherent culture in the presence of leucine methyl ester. Furthermore, mBMPCs attached to laminin, fibronectin, and collagen-1 with varying affinity up to 3 h (fibronectin>or=collagen>laminin), after which time no difference could be detected. Despite this, growth was unaffected; cells thereafter proliferated equally well on all substrates up to confluence (7 days). Notably, commitment to the osteoblast lineage (RUNX2) increased up to 14 days for cells cultured on the various substrates, yet no difference was observed at day 14 in the expression of collagen-1, alkaline phosphatase, or osteocalcin. We conclude that mBMPC differentiation down the osteoblastic lineage is time-dependent in osteogenic culture and that attachment to ECM matrices potentiates lineage commitment rather than growth.