Structure and molecular regulation of bone matrix proteins

Matrix Metalloproteinases in the Periodontium-Vital in Tissue Turnover and Unfortunate in Periodontitis

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex non-cellular three-dimensional macromolecular network present within all tissues and organs, forming the foundation on which cells sit, and composed of proteins (such as collagen), glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, minerals, and water. The ECM provides a fundamental framework for the cellular constituents of tissue and biochemical support to surrounding cells. The ECM is a highly dynamic structure that is constantly being remodeled. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are among the most important proteolytic enzymes of the ECM and are capable of degrading all ECM molecules. MMPs play a relevant role in physiological as well as pathological processes; MMPs participate in embryogenesis, morphogenesis, wound healing, and tissue remodeling, and therefore, their impaired activity may result in several problems. MMP activity is also associated with chronic inflammation, tissue breakdown, fibrosis, and cancer invasion and metastasis. The periodontium is a unique anatomical site, composed of a variety of connective tissues, created by the ECM. During periodontitis, a chronic inflammation affecting the periodontium, increased presence and activity of MMPs is observed, resulting in irreversible losses of periodontal tissues. MMP expression and activity may be controlled in various ways, one of which is the inhibition of their activity by an endogenous group of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), as well as reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs (RECK).

The Metabolic Features of Osteoblasts: Implications for Multiple Myeloma (MM) Bone Disease

The study of osteoblast (OB) metabolism has recently received increased attention due to the considerable amount of energy used during the bone remodeling process. In addition to glucose, the main nutrient for the osteoblast lineages, recent data highlight the importance of amino acid and fatty acid metabolism in providing the fuel necessary for the proper functioning of OBs. Among the amino acids, it has been reported that OBs are largely dependent on glutamine (Gln) for their differentiation and activity. In this review, we describe the main metabolic pathways governing OBs' fate and functions, both in physiological and pathological malignant conditions. In particular, we focus on multiple myeloma (MM) bone disease, which is characterized by a severe imbalance in OB differentiation due to the presence of malignant plasma cells into the bone microenvironment. Here, we describe the most important metabolic alterations involved in the inhibition of OB formation and activity in MM patients.

Ameliorative effects of Osteo-F, a newly developed herbal formula, on osteoporosis via activation of bone formation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The fruit of Schizandra chinensis and Lycium chinense, and the root of Eucommia ulmoides, components of Osteo-F, has traditionally been used for treating bone diseases in Korean Medicine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The exact role and underlying mechanism of Osteo-F herbal formula on bone formation in osteoporosis was investigated in the present study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

OVX mice were treated with 0.9, 9 and 90 mg/kg of Osteo-F for 4 weeks. Bone tissues including fourth to sixth lumbar vertebrae (LV) and femur were collected to analyze the bone mineral density (BMD). In addition, serum biomarkers were estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expressions of collagen, BMP-2 and osteopontin were determined in tibia to clarify the bone anabolic effects of Osteo-F in osteoporosis.

RESULTS

The levels of BMD in both of fourth to sixth LV and femur were significantly increased by Osteo-F treatment in OVX mice. Bone mineral content (BMC) was also elevated in Osteo-F-treated LV and femoral bone tissues. In addition, serum osteocalcin was markedly increased by Osteo-F in osteoporotic mice. Serum ALP and bALP levels were neutralized in Osteo-F 90 mg/kg-administered mice. Furthermore, Osteo-F treatment dramatically increased the mRNA expressions of collagen type I, BMP-2 and OPN in tibial bone specimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Osteo-F ameliorated bone loss by increasing bone forming molecules including BMP-2 and OPN in osteoporosis. Osteo-F, a newly developed herbal formula, may be an alternative material for the management of osteoporosis with bone anabolic effects.

Early osteoimmunomodulatory effects of magnesium-calcium-zinc alloys

Today, substantial attention is given to biomaterial strategies for bone regeneration, and among them, there is a growing interest in using immunomodulatory biomaterials. The ability of a biomaterial to induce neo vascularization and macrophage polarization is a major factor in defining its success. Magnesium (Mg)-based degradable alloys have attracted significant attention for bone regeneration owing to their biodegradability and potential for avoiding secondary removal surgeries. However, there is insufficient evidence in the literature regarding the early inflammatory responses to these alloys in vivo. In this study, we investigated the early body responses to Mg-0.45wt%Zn-0.45wt%Ca pin-shaped alloy (known as ZX00 alloy) in rat femora 2, 5, and 10 days after implantation. We used 3D micro computed tomography (µCT), histological, immunohistochemical, histomorphometrical, and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) analyses to study new bone formation, early macrophage polarization, neo vascularization, and bone quality at the implant bone interface. The expression of macrophage type 2 biological markers increased significantly after 10 days of Mg alloy implantation, indicating its potential in stimulating macrophage polarization. Our biomineralization results using µCT as well as histological stained sections did not indicate any statistically significant differences between different time points for both groups. The activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx 2) biological markers decreased significantly for Mg group, indicating less osteoblast activity. Generally, our results supported the potential of ZX00 alloy to enhance the expression of macrophage polarization in vivo; however, we could not observe any statistically significant changes regarding biomineralization.

Glycosylation of DMP1 maintains cranial sutures in mice

Craniosynostosis, a severe craniofacial developmental disease, can only be treated with surgery currently. Recent studies have shown that proteoglycans are involved in the suture development. For the bone matrix protein, dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), glycosylation on the N-terminal of it could generate a functional proteoglycan form of DMP1 during osteogenesis. We identified that the proteoglycan form of DMP1 (DMP1-PG) is highly expressed in mineralisation front of suture. But, the potential role of DMP1-PG in suture fusion remain unclear. To investigate the role of DMP1-PG in cranial suture fusion and craniofacial bone development. By using a DMP1 glycosylation site mutation mouse model, DMP1-S89G mice, we compared the suture development in it with control mice. We compared the suture phenotypes, bone formation rate, expression levels of bone formation markers in vivo between DMP1-S89G mice and wild-type mice. Meanwhile, cell culture and organ culture were performed to detect the differences in cell differentiation and suture fusion in vitro. Finally, chondroitin sulphate (CHS), as functional component of DMP1-PG, was employed to test whether it could delay the premature suture fusion and the abnormal differentiation of bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) of DMP1-PG mice. DMP1-S89G mice had premature closure of suture and shorter skull size. Lack of DMP1-PG accelerated bone formation in cranial suture. DMP1-PG maintained the essential stemness of BMSCs in suture through blocking the premature differentiation of BMSCs to osteoblasts. Finally, chondroitin sulphate, a major component of DMP1-PG, successfully delayed the premature suture fusion by organ culture of skull in vitro. DMP1-PG could inhibit premature fusion of cranial suture and maintain the suture through regulating the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs.

Osteogenesis and bone remodeling: A focus on growth factors and bioactive peptides

Bone is one of the most frequently transplanted tissues. The bone structure and its physiological function and stem cells biology were known to be closely related to each other for many years. Bone is considered a home to the well-known systems of postnatal mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). These bone resident MSCs provide a range of growth factors (GF) and cytokines to support cell growth following injury. These GFs include a group of proteins and peptides produced by different cells which are regulators of important cell functions such as division, migration, and differentiation. GF signaling controls the formation and development of the MSCs condensation and plays a critical role in regulating osteogenesis, chondrogenesis, and bone/mineral homeostasis. Thus, a combination of both MSCs and GFs receives high expectations in regenerative medicine, particularly in bone repair applications. It is known that the delivery of exogenous GFs to the non-union bone fracture site remarkably improves healing results. Here we present updated information on bone tissue engineering with a specific focus on GF characteristics and their application in cellular functions and tissue healing. Moreover, the interrelation of GFs with the damaged bone microenvironment and their mechanistic functions are discussed.

Ablation of Runx2 in Ameloblasts Suppresses Enamel Maturation in Tooth Development

Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) is involved in the early stage of tooth development. However, only few studies have reported the role of Runx2 in enamel development, which may be attributed to that Runx2 full knockout mice cannot survive after birth. In the present study, we successfully established a Runx2-deficient mouse model using a conditional knockout (cKO) method. We observed a significant reduction in the degree of mineralization and the decreased size of enamel rods in cKO mice. Histological analysis showed the retained enamel proteins in enamel layer at maturation stage in cKO molars. Further analysis by qRT-PCR revealed that the expressions of genes encoding enamel structure proteins, such as amelogenin (AMELX), ameloblastin (AMBN) and enamelin (ENAM), were increased in cKO enamel organs. On the other hand, the expression of kallikrein-related peptidase-4 (KLK4) at the mRNA and protein levels was dramatically decreased from late secretory stage to maturation stage in cKO enamel organs, while the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-20 (MMP-20) was not significantly altered. Finally, immunohistochemistry indicated that the uptake of amelogenins by ameloblasts was significantly decreased in cKO mice. Taken together, Runx2 played critical roles in controlling enamel maturation by increasing synthesis of KLK4 and decreasing synthesis of AMELX, AMBN and ENAM.

Nanomedicine for safe healing of bone trauma: Opportunities and challenges

Historically, high-energy extremity injuries resulting in significant soft-tissue trauma and bone loss were often deemed unsalvageable and treated with primary amputation. With improved soft-tissue coverage and nerve repair techniques, these injuries now present new challenges in limb-salvage surgery. High-energy extremity trauma is pre-disposed to delayed or unpredictable bony healing and high rates of infection, depending on the integrity of the soft-tissue envelope. Furthermore, orthopedic trauma surgeons are often faced with the challenge of stabilizing and repairing large bony defects while promoting an optimal environment to prevent infection and aid bony healing. During the last decade, nanomedicine has demonstrated substantial potential in addressing the two major issues intrinsic to orthopedic traumas (i.e., high infection risk and low bony reconstruction) through combatting bacterial infection and accelerating/increasing the effectiveness of the bone-healing process. This review presents an overview and discusses recent challenges and opportunities to address major orthopedic trauma through nanomedical approaches.

Indoxyl sulfate, a uremic toxin in chronic kidney disease, suppresses both bone formation and bone resorption

Abnormalities of bone turnover are commonly observed in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), and the low‐turnover bone disease is considered to be associated with low serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and skeletal resistance to PTH. Indoxyl sulfate (IS) is a representative uremic toxin that accumulates in the blood of patients with CKD. Recently, we have reported that IS exacerbates low bone turnover induced by parathyroidectomy (PTX) in adult rats, and suggested that IS directly induces low bone turnover through the inhibition of bone formation by mechanisms unrelated to skeletal resistance to PTH. To define the direct action of IS in bone turnover, we examined the effects of IS on bone formation and bone resorption in vitro. In cultures of mouse primary osteoblasts, IS suppressed the expression of osterix, osteocalcin, and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) mRNA and clearly inhibited the formation of mineralized bone nodules. Therefore, IS directly acts on osteoblastic cells to suppress bone formation. On the other hand, IS suppressed interleukin (IL)‐1‐induced osteoclast formation in cocultures of bone marrow cells and osteoblasts, and IL‐1‐induced bone resorption in calvarial organ cultures. In cultures of osteoblasts, IS suppressed the mRNA expression of RANKL, the receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand, which is a pivotal factor for osteoclast differentiation. Moreover, IS acted on osteoclast precursor, bone marrow‐derived macrophages and RAW264.7 cells, and suppressed RANKL‐dependent differentiation into mature osteoclasts. IS may induce low‐turnover bone disease in patients with CKD by its direct action on both osteoblasts and osteoclast precursors to suppress bone formation and bone resorption.

Biomimetic, Osteoconductive Non-mulberry Silk Fiber Reinforced Tricomposite Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering

Composite biomaterials as artificial bone graft materials are pushing the present frontiers of bioengineering. In this study, a biomimetic, osteoconductive tricomposite scaffold made of hydroxyapatite (HA) embedded in non-mulberry Antheraea assama (A. assama) silk fibroin fibers and its fibroin solution is explored for its osteogenic potential. Scaffolds were physico-chemically characterized for morphology, porosity, secondary structure conformation, water retention ability, biodegradability, and mechanical property. The results revealed a ∼5-fold increase in scaffold compressive modulus on addition of HA and silk fibers to liquid silk as compared to pure silk scaffolds while maintaining high scaffold porosity (∼90%) with slower degradation rates. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results confirmed deposition of HA crystals on composite scaffolds. Furthermore, the crystallite size of HA within scaffolds was strongly regulated by the intrinsic physical cues of silk fibroin. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy studies indicated strong interactions between HA and silk fibroin. The fabricated tricomposite scaffolds supported enhanced cellular viability and function (ALP activity) for both MG63 osteosarcoma and human bone marrow stem cells (hBMSCs) as compared to pure silk scaffolds without fiber or HA addition. In addition, higher expression of osteogenic gene markers such as collagen I (Col-I), osteocalcin (OCN), osteopontin (OPN), and bone sialoprotein (BSP) further substantiated the applicability of HA composite silk scaffolds for bone related applications. Immunostaining studies confirmed localization of Col-I and BSP and were in agreement with real-time gene expression results. These findings demonstrate the osteogenic potential of developed biodegradable tricomposite scaffolds with the added advantage of the affordability of its components as bone graft substitute materials.

Pneumatization within a maxillary sinus graft: a case report

Rehabilitation of edentulous posterior maxilla with implant-supported prostheses frequently presents a challenge to dentists. This is due to insufficient bone within the region, in addition to other limiting factors such as anatomical pneumatization of the maxillary sinus. Thus, grafting of the maxillary sinus is a common procedure used to counteract these problems. Regardless of the type of biomaterial used, the success of the procedure is dependent on the formation of high-quality bone. Therefore, vascularization is a key factor for successful grafting and for the long-term maintenance of the treatment. This paper reports a clinical case of bone graft pneumatization and attempts to elucidate its potential etiology.

Evaluate the growth and adhesion of osteoblast cells on nanocomposite scaffold of hydroxyapatite/titania coated with poly hydroxybutyrate

Background:

The generation of bioartificial bone tissues may help to overcome the problems related to donor site morbidity and size limitations.

Materials and Methods:

In this paper, hydroxyapatite (HA) powder was made out of bovine bone by thermal analysis at 900°C and first, and then, porous HA (50 weight percentage) was produced by polyurethane sponge replication method. In order to improve the scaffold mechanical properties, they have been coated with poly hydroxybutyrate. In terms of phase studies, morphology, and specifying agent groups, the specific characterization devices such as X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared, were employed. To compare the behavior of cellular scaffolds, they were divided into four groups of scaffolds. The osteoblast cells were cultured. To perform phase studies, analysis of Methylthiazole tetrazolium (MTT) and Trypan blue were carried out for the viability and attachment on the surface of the scaffold, and the specification of Scanning electron microscopy was employed for the morphology of the cells.

Results:

The results of MTT analysis performed on four groups of scaffolds have shown that Titanium oxide (Tio₂) had no effect on cell growth alone and HA was the main factor of growth and cell osteoblast adhesion on the scaffold. Moreover, the results showed that the use of coating with poly-3-hydroxybutyrate saved the factors and placed the osteoblasts within the pore. Since the main part of bone consists of HA, the TiO₂ accelerates the formation of apatite crystals at the scaffold surface which is the evidence for bone tissue regeneration.

Conclusions:

It is likely that the relation between HA and TiO₂ leads to an increase in osteoblast adhesion and growth of cells on the scaffold surface.

Angiotensin II suppresses osteoblastic differentiation and mineralized nodule formation via AT1 receptor in ROS17/2.8 cells

INTRODUCTION

Angiotensin II (Ang II) not only regulates systemic blood pressure through a vasoconstrictive effect, but also promotes bone resorption. We recently reported that Ang II (10(-6) M) stimulated the production of matrix metalloproteinases via the AT1 receptor in osteoblastic ROS17/2.8 cells, but suppressed alkaline phosphatase activity. However, the roles of Ang II in osteoblastic differentiation and the function of osteogenesis in osteoblasts are unclear. Therefore, we examined the effect of Ang II on the expression of osteogenesis-related transcription factors and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, as well as mineralized nodule formation in ROS17/2.8 cells.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

ROS17/2.8 cells were cultured with 0 (control) or 10(-6) M Ang II in the presence or absence of the AT1 receptor blocker losartan. Mineralized nodule formation was detected by Alizarin Red staining. Gene and protein expression levels of transcription factors and ECM proteins were determined using real-time PCR and Western blotting, respectively.

RESULTS

Runx2, Msx2, and osteocalcin expression significantly decreased with Ang II compared to the control, whereas AJ18 expression significantly increased. Osterix, Dlx5, type I collagen, bone sialoprotein, and osteopontin expression was unaffected. Mineralized nodule formation and calcium content in mineralized nodules decreased with Ang II. Losartan blocked suppressive or stimulatory effects of Ang II on Runx2, Msx2, osteocalcin, and AJ18 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that Ang II suppresses osteoblastic differentiation by altering the expression of osteogenesis-related transcription factors via the AT1 receptor and the function of osteogenesis in ROS17/2.8 cells.

Design, materials, and mechanobiology of biodegradable scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

A review about design, manufacture, and mechanobiology of biodegradable scaffolds for bone tissue engineering is given. First, fundamental aspects about bone tissue engineering and considerations related to scaffold design are established. Second, issues related to scaffold biomaterials and manufacturing processes are discussed. Finally, mechanobiology of bone tissue and computational models developed for simulating how bone healing occurs inside a scaffold are described.

Tension Force Downregulates Matrix Metalloproteinase Expression and Upregulates the Expression of Their Inhibitors through MAPK Signaling Pathways in MC3T3-E1 cells

OBJECTIVE

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), produced by osteoblasts, catalyze the turnover of extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules in osteoid, and the regulation of MMP activity depends on interactions between MMPs and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). We focused on the degradation process of ECM in osteoid that was exposed to mechanical strain, and conducted an in vitro study using MC3T3-E1 osteoblastic cells to examine the effects of tension force (TF) on the expression of MMPs and TIMPs, and activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways.

DESIGN

Cells were incubated on flexible-bottomed culture plates and stimulated with or without cyclic TF for 24 hours. The expression of MMPs and TIMPs was examined at mRNA and protein levels by real-time RT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively. The phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, p38 MAPK, and stress-activated protein kinases/c-jun N-terminal kinases (SAPK/JNK) were examined by Western blotting.

RESULTS

TF decreased the expression of MMP-1, -3, -13 and phosphorylated ERK1/2. In contrast, TF increased the expression of TIMP-2, -3 and phosphorylated SAPK/JNK. The expression of MMP-2, -14, TIMP-1, -4 and phosphorylated p38 MAPK was unaffected by TF. MMP-1, -3 and -13 expression decreased in cells treated with the ERK inhibitor PD98059 compared with untreated control cells. The JNK inhibitor SP600125 inhibited the TF-induced upregulation of TIMP-2 and -3.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that TF suppresses the degradation process that occurs during ECM turnover in osteoid via decreased production of MMP-1, -3 and -13, and increased production of TIMP-2 and -3 through the MAPK signaling pathways in osteoblasts.

Five freely circulating miRNAs and bone tissue miRNAs are associated with osteoporotic fractures

Osteoporosis as a systemic skeletal disorder is characterized by increased bone fragility and the risk of fractures. According to the World Health Organization, osteoporosis is one of the 10 most common diseases and affects approximately 75 million people in Europe, the United States, and Japan. In this context, the identification of specific microRNA (miRNA) signatures is an important step for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. The focus of interest on miRNAs as biomarkers came with new publications identifying free circulating extracellular miRNAs associated with various types of cancer. This study aimed to identify specific miRNAs in patients with osteoporotic fractures compared with nonosteoporotic fractures. For the array analysis, miRNAs were isolated from the serum of 20 patients with hip fractures, transcribed, and the samples were pooled into 10 osteoporotic and 10 nonosteoporotic specimens. With each pool of samples, human serum and plasma miRNA PCR arrays were performed, which are able to identify 83 different miRNAs. Subsequently, a separate validation analysis of each miRNA found to be regulated in the array followed with miRNA samples isolated from the serum of 30 osteoporotic and 30 nonosteoporotic patients and miRNA samples isolated from the bone tissue of 20 osteoporotic and 20 nonosteoporotic patients. With the validation analysis of the regulated miRNAs, we identified 9 miRNAs, namely miR-21, miR-23a, miR-24, miR-93, miR-100, miR-122a, miR-124a, miR-125b, and miR-148a, that were significantly upregulated in the serum of patients with osteoporosis. In the bone tissue of osteoporotic patients, we identified that miR-21, miR-23a, miR-24, miR-25, miR-100, and miR-125b displayed a significantly higher expression. A total of 5 miRNAs display an upregulation both in serum and bone tissue. This study reveals an important role for several miRNAs in osteoporotic patients and suggested that they may be used as biomarkers for diagnostic purposes and may be a target for treating bone loss and optimizing fracture healing in osteoporotic patients.

Impact of extracellular matrix derived from osteoarthritis subchondral bone osteoblasts on osteocytes: role of integrinβ1 and focal adhesion kinase signaling cues

INTRODUCTION

Our recent study indicated that subchondral bone pathogenesis in osteoarthritis (OA) is associated with osteocyte morphology and phenotypic abnormalities. However, the mechanism underlying this abnormality needs to be identified. In this study we investigated the effect of extracellular matrix (ECM) produced from normal and OA bone on osteocytic cells function.

METHODS

De-cellularized matrices, resembling the bone provisional ECM secreted from primary human subchondral bone osteoblasts (SBOs) of normal and OA patients were used as a model to study the effect on osteocytic cells. Osteocytic cells (MLOY4 osteocyte cell line) cultured on normal and OA derived ECMs were analyzed by confocal microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), cell attachment assays, zymography, apoptosis assays, qRT-PCR and western blotting. The role of integrinβ1 and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling pathways during these interactions were monitored using appropriate blocking antibodies.

RESULTS

The ECM produced by OA SBOs contained less mineral content, showed altered organization of matrix proteins and matrix structure compared with the matrices produced by normal SBOs. Culture of osteocytic cells on these defective OA ECM resulted in a decrease of integrinβ1 expression and the de-activation of FAK cell signaling pathway, which subsequently affected the initial osteocytic cell's attachment and functions including morphological abnormalities of cytoskeletal structures, focal adhesions, increased apoptosis, altered osteocyte specific gene expression and increased Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2) and -9 expression.

CONCLUSION

This study provides new insights in understanding how altered OA bone matrix can lead to the abnormal osteocyte phenotypic changes, which is typical in OA pathogenesis.

Delineating breast cancer cell interactions with engineered bone microenvironments

The mechanisms leading to colonization of metastatic breast cancer cells (BCa) in the skeleton are still not fully understood. Here, we demonstrate that mineralized extracellular matrices secreted by primary human osteoblasts (hOBM) modulate cellular processes associated with BCa colonization of bone. A panel of four BCa cell lines of different bone-metastatic potential (T47D, SUM1315, MDA-MB-231, and the bone-seeking subline MDA-MB-231BO) was cultured on hOBM. After 3 days, the metastatic BCa cells had undergone morphological changes on hOBM and were aligned along the hOBM's collagen type I fibrils that were decorated with bone-specific proteins. In contrast, nonmetastatic BCa cells showed a random orientation on hOBM. Atomic force microscopy-based single-cell force spectroscopy revealed that the metastatic cell lines adhered more strongly to hOBM compared with nonmetastatic cells. Function-blocking experiments indicated that β1 -integrins mediated cell adhesion to hOBM. In addition, metastatic BCa cells migrated directionally and invaded hOBM, which was accompanied by enhanced MMP-2 and -9 secretion. Furthermore, we observed gene expression changes associated with osteomimickry in BCa cultured on hOBM. As such, osteopontin mRNA levels were significantly increased in SUM1315 and MDA-MB-231BO cells in a β1 -integrin-dependent manner after growing for 3 days on hOBM compared with tissue culture plastic. In conclusion, our results show that extracellular matrices derived from human osteoblasts represent a powerful experimental platform to dissect mechanisms underlying critical steps in the development of bone metastases.

Enhanced in vivo osteogenesis by nanocarrier-fused bone morphogenetic protein-4

Purpose

Bone defects and nonunions are major clinical skeletal problems. Growth factors are commonly used to promote bone regeneration; however, the clinical impact is limited because the factors do not last long at a given site. The introduction of tissue engineering aimed to deter the diffusion of these factors is a promising therapeutic strategy. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the in vivo osteogenic capability of an engineered bone morphogenetic protein-4 (BMP4) fusion protein.

Methods

BMP4 was fused with a nanosized carrier, collagen-binding domain (CBD), derived from fibronectin. The stability of the CBD-BMP4 fusion protein was examined in vitro and in vivo. Osteogenic effects of CBD-BMP4 were evaluated by computer tomography after intramedullary injection without a collagen–sponge scaffold. Recombinant BMP-4, CBD, or vehicle were used as controls. Expressions of bone-related genes and growth factors were compared among the groups. Osteogenesis induced by CBD-BMP4, BMP4, and CBD was also assessed in a bone-defect model.

Results

In vitro, CBD-BMP4 was retained in a collagen gel for at least 7 days while BMP4 alone was released within 3 hours. In vivo, CBD-BMP4 remained at the given site for at least 2 weeks, both with or without a collagen–sponge scaffold, while BMP4 disappeared from the site within 3 days after injection. CBD-BMP4 induced better bone formation than BMP4 did alone, CBD alone, and vehicle after the intramedullary injection into the mouse femur. Bone-related genes and growth factors were expressed at higher levels in CBD-BMP4-treated mice than in all other groups, including BMP4-treated mice. Finally, CBD-BMP4 potentiated more bone formation than did controls, including BMP4 alone, when applied to cranial bone defects without a collagen scaffold.

Conclusion

Altogether, nanocarrier-CBD enhanced the retention of BMP4 in the bone, thereby promoting augmented osteogenic responses in the absence of a scaffold. These results suggest that CBD-BMP4 may be clinically useful in facilitating bone formation.

The influence of environmental factors on bone tissue engineering

Bone repair and regeneration are dynamic processes that involve a complex interplay between the substrate, local and systemic cells, and the milieu. Although each constituent plays an integral role in faithfully recreating the skeleton, investigators have long focused their efforts on scaffold materials and design, cytokine and hormone administration, and cell-based therapies. Only recently have the intangible aspects of the milieu received their due attention. In this review, we highlight the important influence of environmental factors on bone tissue engineering.

Mineralization content alters osteogenic responses of bone marrow stromal cells on hydroxyapatite/polycaprolactone composite nanofiber scaffolds

Synthetic tissue scaffolds have a high potential impact for patients experiencing osteogenesis imperfecta. Using electrospinning, tissue scaffolds composed of hydroxyapatite/polycaprolactone (HAp/PCL) composite nanofibers were fabricated with two different HAp concentrations—1% and 10% of the solid scaffold weight. After physico-chemical scaffold characterization, rat bone marrow stromal cells were cultured on the composite scaffolds in maintenance medium and then in osteogenic medium. Quantitative PCR, colorimetric assays, immunofluorescent labeling, and electron microscopy measured osteogenic cell responses to the HAp/PCL scaffolds. In maintenance conditions, both Hap/PCL scaffolds and control scaffolds supported cell colonization through seven days with minor differences. In osteogenic conditions, the 10% HAp scaffolds exhibited significantly increased ALP assay levels at week 3, consistent with previous reports. However, qPCR analysis demonstrated an overall decrease in bone matrix-associated genes on Hap/PCL scaffolds. Osteopontin and osteocalcin immunofluorescent microscopy revealed a trend that both mineralized scaffolds had greater amounts of both proteins, though qPCR results indicated the opposite trend for osteopontin. Additionally, type I collagen expression decreased on HAp scaffolds. These results indicate that cells are sensitive to minor changes in mineral content within nanofibers, even at just 1% w/w, and elucidating the sensing mechanism may lead to optimized osteogenic scaffold designs.

Protein adsorption to surface chemistry and crystal structure modification of titanium surfaces

Objectives

To observe the early adsorption of extracellular matrix and blood plasma proteins to magnesium-incorporated titanium oxide surfaces, which has shown superior bone response in animal models.

Material and Methods

Commercially pure titanium discs were blasted with titanium dioxide (TiO₂) particles (control), and for the test group, TiO₂ blasted discs were further processed with a micro-arc oxidation method (test). Surface morphology was investigated by scanning electron microscopy, surface topography by optic interferometry, characterization by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The adsorption of 3 different proteins (fibronectin, albumin, and collagen type I) was investigated by an immunoblotting technique.

Results

The test surface showed a porous structure, whereas the control surface showed a typical TiO₂ blasted structure. XPS data revealed magnesium-incorporation to the anodic oxide film of the surface. There was no difference in surface roughness between the control and test surfaces. For the protein adsorption test, the amount of albumin was significantly higher on the control surface whereas the amount of fibronectin was significantly higher on the test surface. Although there was no significant difference, the test surface had a tendency to adsorb more collagen type I.

Conclusions

The magnesium-incorporated anodized surface showed significantly higher fibronectin adsorption and lower albumin adsorption than the blasted surface. These results may be one of the reasons for the excellent bone response previously observed in animal studies.

Extracellular matrix provides an optimal niche for the maintenance and propagation of mesenchymal stem cells

Relatively little is known about the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the control of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) proliferation, differentiation, and survival. This presents difficulties in following and characterizing cells along the lineage because of our inability to isolate and obtain a sufficient number of homogeneous MSCs using current culture systems for in vitro expansion. Adjusting the cellular machinery to allow greater proliferation can lead to other unwanted outcomes, such as unmanageable precancerous changes, or differentiation down an undesired pathway. Recently, it has become increasingly evident that the extracellular matrix (ECM) is an important component of the cellular niche in a tissue, supplying critical biochemical and physical signals to initiate and sustain cellular functions. Indeed, it is very doubtful that the intricate and highly ordered nature of the ECM could be reproduced with synthetic or purified components. This review cites evidence that supports an alternative approach for maintenance of MSCs by simulating in vitro the bone marrow ECM, where MSCs reside in vivo, and discusses the potential mechanisms whereby the ECM regulates the exposure of cells to growth factors that subsequently control MSC replication and differentiation, and also how the ECM provides unique cues that govern the lineage specification and differentiation of MSCs.

Immunohistochemical and biochemical assay of versican in human sound predentine/dentine matrix

Aim of this study was to investigate the distribution of versican proteoglycan within the human dentine organic matrix by means of a correlative immunohistochemical analysis with field emission in-lens scanning electron microscope (FEI-SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), fluorescence microscope (FM) and biochemical assay. Specimens containing dentine and predentine were obtained from non carious human teeth and divided in three groups: 1) FEI-SEM group: sections were exposed to a pre-embedding immunohistochemical procedure; 2) TEM group: specimens were fixed, demineralised, embedded and submitted to a post-embedding immunohistochemical procedure; 3) FM group: sections mineralised and submitted to a pre-embedding immunohistochemical procedure with fluorescence labelling. Specimens were exposed to two different antibodies to assay distribution of versican fragments and whole versican molecule.Western Blotting analysis of dentine and pulp extracts was also performed. The correlative FEI-SEM,TEM and FM analysis revealed positive immunoreaction for versican fragments both in predentine and dentine, while few gold particles identifying the whole versican molecule were found in predentine only under TEM. No labelling of versican whole molecule was detected by FEI-SEM and FM analysis. The immunoblotting analysis confirmed the morphological findings. This study suggests that in fully developed human teeth versican fragments are significant constituents of the human dentine and predentine organic matrix, while versican whole molecule can be visualised in scarce amount within predentine only. The role of versican fragments within human dentine organic matrix should be further elucidated.

Bone architecture: collagen structure and calcium/phosphorus maps

Bone collagen structure in normal and pathological tissues is presented using techniques of thin section transmission electron microscopy and morphometry. In pathological tissue, deviations from normal fine structure are reflected in abnormal arrangements of collagen fibrils and abnormalities in fibril diameter. The relationships between these bone structural changes and the skeletal calcium/phosphorus ratio are discussed. Calcium/phosphorus ratio is measured by X-ray absorptiometry and computed microtomography.

Missing osteogenic effect of expanded autogenous osteoblast-like cells in a minipig model of sinus augmentation with simultaneous dental implant installation

OBJECTIVES

With natural bovine bone mineral (BioOss) as carrier, the study aimed at investigating the effect of autogenous osteoblast-like cells on bone regeneration in an orthotopic (maxillary sinus) and an ectopic (muscle) site.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Autogenous osteoblast-like cells were isolated from iliac cancellous bone of six minipigs and expanded in an autogenous serum-supplemented osteogenic medium. After confirmation of osteogenicity, the expanded cells were precultivated on BioOss granules for 1 week. Four milliliter of cell-seeded BioOss were used for sinus augmentation of right sinus and a Straumann solid screw (dental) implant was simultaneously installed. The contralateral (control) side was filled with cell-free BioOss. Besides, 2 ml of the corresponding granules were placed in a pouch in the latissimus dorsi muscles bilaterally. Polychrome sequential labeling was performed postoperatively. Specimens were harvested at week 6. Undecalcified sections were evaluated with microradiography, fluorescence microscopy, histology and histomorphometry.

RESULTS

In the test side, the coronal part of dental implant demonstrated higher bone-implant contact (BIC) than the apical part (34.88+/-28.86% vs. 16.68+/-13.80%, P=0.039), as well as higher bone density (BD) in the corresponding zone (14.88+/-6.37% vs. 11.10+/-4.54%, P=0.021). However, the test side demonstrated no advantage over control side in either BD (12.25+/-4.22% vs. 8.45+/-11.04%, P=0.473) or BIC (24.15+/-21.97% vs. 22.05+/-19.00%, P=0.270). Rare bone was formed in the muscles in both sides.

CONCLUSIONS

The expanded autogenous osteoblast-like cells failed to enhance bone formation in the minipig model of sinus augmentation.

Osteonectin-derived peptide increases the modulus of a bone-mimetic nanocomposite

Many factors contribute to the toughness of bone including the presence of nano-size apatite crystals, a dense network of collagen fibers, and acidic proteins with the ability to link the mineral phase to the gelatinous collagen phase. We investigated the effect of a glutamic acid (negatively charged) peptide (Glu6), which mimics the terminal region of the osteonectin glycoprotein of bone, on the shear modulus of a synthetic hydrogel/apatite nanocomposite. One end of the synthesized peptide was functionalized with an acrylate group (Ac-Glu6) to covalently attach the peptide to the hydrogel phase of the composite matrix. When microapatite crystals (5 microm diameter) were used, addition of Ac-Glu6 peptide did not affect the modulus of the microcomposite. However, when nanoapatite crystals (100 nm diameter) were used, addition of Ac-Glu6 resulted in significant reinforcement of the shear modulus of the nanocomposite ( approximately 100% in elastic shear modulus). Furthermore, addition of Ac-Gly6 (a neutral glycine sequence) or Ac-Lys6 (a positively charged sequence) did not reinforce the nanocomposite. These results demonstrate that the reinforcement effect of the Glu6 peptide, a sequence in the terminal region of osteonectin, is modulated by the size of the apatite crystals. The findings of this work can be used to develop advanced biomimetic composites for skeletal tissue regeneration.

Immunohistochemical identification of decorin and biglycan in human dentin: a correlative field emission scanning electron microscopy/transmission electron microscopy study

Decorin and biglycan, two small leucine-rich proteoglycans, have been proposed to play important roles in matrix-mediated formation of mineralized tissues, and their three-dimensional arrangement in human dentin is still not completely understood. The aim of this study was to immunohistochemically analyze the distribution of decorin and biglycan in human predentin/dentin organic matrix under a high-resolution field emission in-lens scanning electron microscope (FEI-SEM) and a transmission electron microscope (TEM). Tooth dentin specimens were submitted to either a preembedding or a postembedding immunolabeling technique using primary antibodies antidecorin and antibiglycan and gold-conjugated secondary antibodies. Correlative FEI-SEM/TEM observations showed that the two antibodies yielded a similar labeling pattern over the processes of odontoblasts and the predentin. Decorin and biglycan were mainly associated with the collagen fibers within the predentin layer, revealing a moderate immunoreaction that was significantly higher compared to the one observed on dentin. Thus, a generally weak labeling for decorin was found in dentin, which, however, was significantly higher on odontoblast processes within dentinal tubules than in intertubular dentin. On the other hand, biglycan immunolocalization on dentin revealed few gold particles rather uniformly distributed, without showing significant differences between tubular and intertubular regions. In conclusion, this study reveals distinct distribution patterns of decorin and biglycan and their relation with collagen. Decorin's and biglycan's precise roles within prematrix and mineralized matrix in human teeth should be further clarified.

Runx2 and dental development

The Runx2 gene is a master transcription factor of bone and plays a role in all stages of bone formation. It is essential for the initial commitment of mesenchymal cells to the osteoblastic lineage and also controls the proliferation, differentiation, and maintenance of these cells. Control is complex, with involvement of a multitude of factors, thereby regulating the expression and activity of this gene both temporally and spatially. The use of multiple promoters and alternative splicing of exons further extends its diversity of actions. RUNX2 is also essential for the later stages of tooth formation, is intimately involved in the development of calcified tooth tissue, and exerts an influence on proliferation of the dental lamina. Furthermore, RUNX2 regulates the alveolar remodelling process essential for tooth eruption and may play a role in the maintenance of the periodontal ligament. In this article, the structure of Runx2 is described. The control and function of the gene and its product are discussed, with special reference to developing tooth tissues, in an attempt to elucidate the role of this gene in the development of the teeth and supporting structures.

Tissue engineering of bone: the reconstructive surgeon's point of view

Bone defects represent a medical and socioeconomic challenge. Different types of biomaterials are applied for reconstructive indications and receive rising interest. However, autologous bone grafts are still considered as the gold standard for reconstruction of extended bone defects. The generation of bioartificial bone tissues may help to overcome the problems related to donor site morbidity and size limitations. Tissue engineering is, according to its historic definition, an "interdisciplinary field that applies the principles of engineering and the life sciences toward the development of biological substitutes that restore, maintain, or improve tissue function". It is based on the understanding of tissue formation and regeneration and aims to rather grow new functional tissues than to build new spare parts. While reconstruction of small to moderate sized bone defects using engineered bone tissues is technically feasible, and some of the currently developed concepts may represent alternatives to autologous bone grafts for certain clinical conditions, the reconstruction of large-volume defects remains challenging. Therefore vascularization concepts gain on interest and the combination of tissue engineering approaches with flap prefabrication techniques may eventually allow application of bone-tissue substitutes grown in vivo with the advantage of minimal donor site morbidity as compared to conventional vascularized bone grafts. The scope of this review is the introduction of basic principles and different components of engineered bioartificial bone tissues with a strong focus on clinical applications in reconstructive surgery. Concepts for the induction of axial vascularization in engineered bone tissues as well as potential clinical applications are discussed in detail.

The role of collagen in bone structure: An image processing approach

Bone collagen structure in normal and pathological tissues is illustrated using techniques of thin section transmission electron microscopy and computer-assisted analysis. The normal bone collagen types, fibril architecture and diameter are described. In pathological tissue, deviations from normal fine structure are reflected in abnormal arrangements of collagen fibrils and abnormalities in fibril diameter. Computer analyses of normal fibril positive staining patterns are presented in order to provide a basis for comparing such patterns with pathological ones.

Sacrificial bonds and hidden length dissipate energy as mineralized fibrils separate during bone fracture

Properties of the organic matrix of bone as well as its function in the microstructure could be the key to the remarkable mechanical properties of bone. Previously, it was found that on the molecular level, calcium-mediated sacrificial bonds increased stiffness and enhanced energy dissipation in bone constituent molecules. Here we present evidence for how this sacrificial bond and hidden length mechanism contributes to the mechanical properties of the bone composite, by investigating the nanoscale arrangement of the bone constituents and their interactions. We find evidence that bone consists of mineralized collagen fibrils and a non-fibrillar organic matrix, which acts as a 'glue' that holds the mineralized fibrils together. We believe that this glue may resist the separation of mineralized collagen fibrils. As in the case of the sacrificial bonds in single molecules, the effectiveness of this mechanism increases with the presence of Ca2+ ions.

Molecular identification of human tuberculosis in recent and historic bone tissue samples: The role of molecular techniques for the study of historic tuberculosis

We describe the molecular identification of the M. tuberculosis complex DNA in bone tissue samples from recent and historic populations. In a first set, archival paraffin material from vertebral bodies of 12 recent cases with clinically/microbiologically proven tuberculosis was compared to 12 further cases without tuberculosis. While eight TB cases revealed a specific mycobacterial amplification product, none of the controls was positive. Interestingly, one case with tuberculous sepsis (Landouzy sepsis), five cases with tuberculous spread beyond the primarily affected organ (i.e., lymph node or miliar involvement), and also two of six cases with restricted pulmonary tuberculosis reacted positively in the vertebral specimens. This indicates that a molecular analysis can detect mycobacteria even in unremarkable bone tissue, proving that organ tuberculosis is present. In addition, the extent of spread is of high significance for the frequency of positive reactions. In addition, we investigated a series of vertebral samples coming from an Egyptian population of the necropolis of Thebes-West dating to approximately 1450-500 BC. In this group of 36 cases, three of five cases with typical macromorphological signs for tuberculous spondylitis, 2 of 12 cases with nonspecific alterations, and 2 of 19 cases without macroscopic pathology revealed a specific amplicon of the M. tuberculosis complex. This suggests a significant frequency of infected people in that ancient population. Finally, a fourth group of 51 long bone samples with pathological alterations coming form a southern German ossuary (between AD 1400-1800) was investigated, and 10 cases were positive for the M. tuberculosis complex. These studies of historic material clearly support the notion that tuberculous infections can be unequivocally identified by molecular techniques. The relatively high frequency of ancient bacterial DNA amplifications in unremarkable bone is well-explained by our analysis of the recent material. Our data form an important basis for the investigation of tuberculosis frequency and spread in historic periods.

Proteoglycans and orthodontic tooth movement

Proteoglycans represent an important and diverse family of extracellular matrix components within the connective tissues of the periodontium. This review focuses on the function and metabolism of the various proteoglycans in periodontal tissues, such as alveolar bone and periodontal ligament, and considers their potential fate in response to an orthodontic force. Such considerations provide an important background in evaluating the potential for proteoglycan metabolites, alongside other connective tissue metabolites, as biomarkers for assessing the deep-seated metabolic changes and as a diagnostic tool in monitoring orthodontic tooth movement.

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound stimulates a bone-forming response in UMR-106 cells

Low-intensity (<100 mW/cm(2)) pulsed ultrasound (US) is an established therapy for fracture repair. In both animal and human trials, such US has been shown to facilitate fresh fracture repair and initiate healing in fractures with repair defects. However, the mechanism by which US achieves these outcomes is not clear. One possible mechanism is the direct stimulation of bone formation. To investigate this hypothesis, the current study investigated the mRNA response of isolated bone-forming cells (UMR-106 cells) to a single 20-min dose of low-intensity pulsed US. Using a novel US-cell coupling method, US was found to stimulate expression of the immediate-early response genes c-fos and COX-2 and elevate mRNA levels for the bone matrix proteins ALP and OC. These findings suggest that low-intensity pulsed US has a direct effect on bone formation. This may contribute to the beneficial effect of low-intensity pulsed US on fracture repair.

Influence of nutritional factors on bone collagen fibrils in ovariectomized rats

The influence of both vitamin D(3) and Ca:P ratio on bone collagen fibrils was investigated in ovariectomized rats. Six weeks after ovariectomy the rats were maintained for 80 days with diets containing vitamin D(3) and calcium supplementation. Age-matched ovariectomized animals were fed a normal diet. When vitamin D(3) was increased in the diet, although no effect in fibril organization was observed in relation to that from ovariectomized rats with the normal diet, a highly significant effect in fibril diameter was detected. When the calcium:phosphorus (Ca:P) ratio was increased from 1:1 to 2:1 (without vitamin D(3) supplementation) both structural fiber parameters were significantly affected. The results were closer to normal (i.e., collagen fibrils from animals without ovariectomy) when vitamin D(3) and Ca:P ratios were combined.

Glucocorticoids induce a near-total suppression of hyaluronan synthase mRNA in dermal fibroblasts and in osteoblasts: a molecular mechanism contributing to organ atrophy

Glucocorticoid (GC) administration induces atrophy of skin, bone, and other organs, partly by reducing tissue content of glycosaminoglycans, particularly hyaluronic acid (HA). We took advantage of the recent cloning of the three human hyaluronan synthase (HAS) enzymes (HAS1, HAS2 and HAS3), to explore the molecular mechanisms of this side effect. Northern and slot blots performed on RNA extracted from cultured dermal fibroblasts and the MG-63 osteoblast-like osteosarcoma cell line indicated that HAS2 is the predominant HAS mRNA in these cells. Incubation of both cell types for 24 h in the presence of 10(-6) M dexamethasone (DEX) resulted in a striking 97--98% suppression of HAS2 mRNA levels. Time-course studies in fibroblasts demonstrated suppression of HAS2 mRNA to 28% of control by 1 h, and to 1.2% of control by 2 h, after addition of DEX. Dose-response studies in fibroblasts indicated that the majority of the suppressive effect required concentrations characteristic of cell-surface GC receptors, a point confirmed by persistent DEX-induced suppression in the presence of RU486, an antagonist of classic cytosolic steroid hormone receptors. Nuclear run-off experiments showed a 70% suppression of HAS2 gene transcription in nuclei from DEX-treated fibroblasts, which is unlikely to fully explain the rapid 50--80-fold reduction in message levels. Experiments with actinomycin D (AMD) demonstrated that the message half-life was 25 min in cells without DEX, whereas the combination of AMD with DEX dramatically increased the half-life of HAS2 mRNA, suggesting that DEX acts by inducing a short-lived destabilizer of the HAS2 message. Direct assessment of HAS2 mRNA stability by wash-out of incorporated uridine label established a half-life of 31 min in cells without DEX, which substantially shortened in the presence of DEX. In conclusion, GCs induce a rapid and sustained, near-total suppression of HAS2 message levels, mediated through substantial decreases in both gene transcription and message stability. These effects may contribute to the loss of HA in GC-treated organs.

Structural alterations in rat skin and bone collagen fibrils induced by ovariectomy

In this study, the influence of ovariectomy in rat skin and bone (trabecular and cortical) collagen fibrils is examined using electron microscopy. Structural changes (fibril architecture and diameter) were detected, at the ultrastructural level, in skin and bone specimens from ovariectomized rats. The overall collagen fibril architecture was disturbed as compared with normal animals. Treated collagen fibrils' mean diameter values were significantly smaller than those from controls, in all tissues examined. The banding patterns of fibrils were normal in all cases; however, measurements by a computerized method of measuring axial periodicity of fibrils indicated significantly lower values for treated samples than untreated samples. Our results show a correlation between the effects induced by ovariectomy in skin and bone collagen. But, the question of whether these changes play a role in the pathogenesis of ovarian hormone deficiency in osteoporosis remains to be demonstrated.

Biomineralization, life-time of odontogenic cells and differential expression of the two homeobox genes MSX-1 and DLX-2 in transgenic mice

Msx and Dlx homeobox genes encode for transcription factors that control early morphogenesis. More specifically, Msx-1, Msx-2, and Dlx-2 homeobox genes contribute to the initial patterning of the dentition. The present study is devoted to the potential role of those homeobox genes during the late formation of mineralized tissues, using the rodent incisor as an experimental system. The continuously erupting mandibular incisor allows (1) the coinvestigation of the whole sequences of amelogenesis and dentinogenesis, aligned along the main dental axis in a single sample in situ and (2) the differential characterization of transcripts generated by epithelial and ectomesenchymal odontogenic cells. Northern blot experiments on microdissected cells showed the continuing expression of Msx-2 and Dlx-2 in the later stages of dental biomineralization, differentially in epithelial and ectomesenchymal compartments. Transgenic mice produced with LacZ reporter constructs for Dlx-2 and Msx-1 were used to detect different components of the gene expression patterns with the sensitive beta-galactosidase histoenzymology. The results show a prominent epithelial involvement of Dlx-2, with stage-specific variations in the cells involved in enamel formation. Quantitative analyses identified specific modulations of Dlx-2 expression in ameloblasts depending on the anatomical sites of the incisor, showing more specifically an inverse linear relationship between the Dlx-2 promoter activity level and enamel thickness. This investigation extends the role of homeoproteins to postmitotic stages, which would control secretory cell activity, in a site-specific manner as shown here for Dlx-2.

Qualitative and quantitative study of human osteoblast adhesion on materials with various surface roughnesses

We quantitatively evaluated the adhesion of human osteoblasts on orthopedic metallic substrates (Ti6Al4V alloy) with various surface roughnesses at several times after inoculation and studied its correlation with qualitative changes in the expression of adhesion proteins and with parameters extensively describing the surface topographies. Cells were orientated in a parallel order on polished surfaces. This orientation was not affected by residual grooves after polishing. On sandblasted surfaces the cells never attained confluence and had a stellate shape, and the cell layer had no particular organization. Extracellular matrix (fibronectin, type I collagen, osteopontin) and cytoskeletal protein (actin, vinculin) orientation reflected the cell layer organization. In our experiment human osteoblasts expressed alpha3beta1 integrin but not alpha2beta1 integrin. In addition to currently analyzed roughness magnitude parameters, we calculated roughness organization parameters (fractal dimension parameters) of the substrates. We observed lower adhesion and proliferation on less organized surfaces (i.e., sandblasted ones). The significant statistical correlation observed between fractal dimension parameters (describing surface roughness organization) and cell parameters adds a new concept to the studies of substratum roughness influence on cell behavior. An attempt at modelization of the cell-surface interaction was made that includes the influence of fractal dimensions parameters.

Cementum-forming cells are phenotypically distinct from bone-forming cells

Normal human cementum-derived cells (HCDCs), expanded in vitro, formed mineralized matrix when attached to a ceramic carrier and transplanted subcutaneously into immunodeficient mice. The mineralized matrix elaborated by transplanted HCDC exhibited several features identical to cementum in situ and was significantly different from bone deposited by similarly transplanted human bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). No bone marrow formation and very few or no tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive cells (osteoclasts and osteoclastic precursors) were found in HCDC transplants. In contrast, in BMSC transplants both hematopoiesis and TRAP-positive cells were routinely observed. Furthermore, compared with BMSC-derived matrix, HCDC-derived matrix was less cellular, numerous empty lacunae were present, and fewer cells were found on the cementum matrix/ceramic carrier interface. The organization of collagen fibers in HCDC-derived matrix, as visualized by using the Picrosirus red staining method, was similar to cementum, with typical unorganized bundles of collagen fibers. In contrast, bone matrix elaborated by transplanted BMSC had lamellar structure, identical to mature bone in situ. Finally, cementocytes embedded in the cementum-like matrix were immunopositive for fibromodulin and lumican, whereas osteocytes within the bonelike matrix were negative. This pattern is consistent with the cementum and bone in situ, respectively. These results indicate that human cementum cells are phenotypically distinct from bone cells and provide further validation of the combined in vitro/in vivo model of human cementogenesis recently developed in our laboratory.

Single integrin molecule adhesion forces in intact cells measured by atomic force microscopy

Cross-talk between cells and the extracellular matrix is critically influenced by the mechanical properties of cell surface receptor-ligand interactions; these interactions are especially well defined and regulated in cells capable of dynamically modifying their matrix environment. In this study, attention was focused on osteoclasts, which are absolutely dependent on integrin extracellular matrix receptors in order to degrade bone; other bone cells, osteoblasts, were used for comparison. Integrin binding forces were measured in intact cells by atomic force microscopy (AFM) for several RGD-containing (Arg-Gly-Asp) ligands and ranged from 32 to 97 picoNewtons (pN); they were found to be cell and amino acid sequence specific, saturatable and sensitive to the pH and divalent cation composition of the cellular culture medium. In contrast to short linear RGD hexapeptides, larger peptides and proteins containing the RGD sequence, such as osteopontin (a major non-collagenous bone protein) and echistatin (a high affinity RGD sequence containing antagonist snake venom protein), showed different binding affinities. This demonstrates that the context of the RGD sequence within a protein has considerable influence upon the final binding force for receptor interaction. These data also demonstrate that AFM, as a methodological approach, can be adapted to cell biology studies wherever cell-matrix interactions play a critical role, and, moreover, may have applicability to the analysis of receptor-ligand interactions in cell membranes in general.

Structural analysis of proteoglycans synthesized by mineralizing bone cells in vitro in the presence of fluoride

This study investigated the biochemical structure of proteoglycans synthesized during matrix maturation by mineralizing bone cells in vitro, in the presence and absence of fluoride. Bone cells were obtained from rat femur washes and cultured in alpha MEM media supplemented with fetal calf serum, ascorbic acid, beta-glycerophosphate and dexamethasone. Cells were characterized as osteoblast-like by the expression of alkaline phosphatase activity and the synthesis of collagen type I and osteocalcin. Fluoride, present in the culture media at concentrations of 10(-5) M or 10(-7) M, had negligible effect on cell viability. However, calcium deposition was increased in cell cultures incubated in the presence of fluoride. Proteoglycans were extracted from the extracellular matrix with 4 M guanidinium chloride and purified by anion exchange chromatography. Biochemical analysis identified the presence of the small leucine rich proteoglycan, decorin and biglycan, in addition to degradation products relating to the larger chondroitin sulphate protoeglycan, versican. Fluoride had little effect on the size or amino acid composition of the protein core, but resulted in significant alterations to the GAG chains, including a dramatic reduction in chain length, reduction in sulphation and decrease in the proportion of dermatan sulphate compared to chondroitin sulphate. The influence of fluoride on proteoglycan structure synthesized by mineralizing bone cells provides valuable information, indicating specific roles for dermatan sulphate and chondroitin sulphate proteoglycans. The results suggested that fluoride affected the post-translational assembly of the GAG chains which may be an influential factor in the mineralization process.

The influence of inflammation-mediated osteopenia (IMO) on the structure of rabbit bone and skin collagen fibrils

The influence of Inflammation Mediated Osteopenia (IMO) on rabbit skin and bone (trabecular and cortical) collagen fibrils was studied by electron microscopy. Severe abnormalities in collagen fibril structure were detected, at the ultrastructural level, in skin and bone specimens from IMO rabbits. In treated animals the arrangement of fibrils is anarchic. The overall collagen fibril architecture is disturbed compared to normal. IMO collagen fibrils' mean diameter values were significantly larger than those from controls, in all examined tissues. However, the banding patterns of fibrils were normal in all cases. Computer analysis shows no differences in charged amino acid composition between IMO and untreated samples. Our results show a correlation between the effects induced by osteopenia on skin and bone collagen.