Expression of matrix metalloproteinases-2 and -9 and RECK during alveolar bone regeneration in rat

Mechanosignaling-related angiocrine factors drive osteoblastic phenotype in response to zirconia

BACKGROUND

The growing use of zirconia as a ceramic material in dentistry is attributed to its biocompatibility, mechanical properties, esthetic appearance, and reduced bacterial adhesion. These favorable properties make ceramic materials a viable alternative to commonly used titanium alloys. Mimicking the physiological properties of blood flow, particularly the mechanosignaling in endothelial cells (ECs), is crucial for enhancing our understanding of their role in the response to zirconia exposure.

METHODS

In this study, EC cultures were subjected to shear stress while being exposed to zirconia for up to 3 days. The conditioned medium obtained from these cultures was then used to expose osteoblasts for a duration of 7 days. To investigate the effects of zirconia on osteoblasts, we examined the expression of genes associated with osteoblast differentiation, including Runx2, Osterix, bone sialoprotein, and osteocalcin genes. Additionally, we assessed the impact of mechanosignaling-related angiocrine factors on extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling by measuring the activities of matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 (MMP2 and MMP9) during the acquisition of the osteogenic phenotype, which precedes mineralization.

RESULTS

Our data revealed that mechanosignaling-related angiocrine factors play a crucial role in promoting an osteoblastic phenotype in response to zirconia exposure. Specifically, exposed osteoblasts exhibited significantly higher expression levels of genes associated with osteoblast differentiation, such as Runx2, Osterix, bone sialoprotein, and osteocalcin genes. Furthermore, the activities of MMP2 and MMP9, which are involved in ECM remodeling, were modulated by mechanosignaling-related angiocrine factors. This modulation is likely an initial event preceding the mineralization phase.

CONCLUSION

Based on our findings, we propose that mechanosignaling drives the release of angiocrine factors capable of modulating the osteogenic phenotype at the biointerface with zirconia. This process creates a microenvironment that promotes wound healing and osseointegration. Moreover, these results highlight the importance of considering the mechanosignaling of endothelial cells in the modulation of bone healing and osseointegration in the context of blood vessel effects. Our data provide new insights and open avenues for further investigation into the influence of mechanosignaling on bone healing and the osseointegration of dental devices.

Nanohydroxyapatite-Blasted Bioactive Surface Drives Shear-Stressed Endothelial Cell Growth and Angiogenesis

Nanosized crystalline hydroxyapatite coating (HAnano®) accelerates the osteointegration of dental implants which is hypothesized to drive angiogenesis. In order to test this hypothesis, we have subjected shear-stressed human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) to a HAnano®-enriched medium, as well as to surface presenting dual acid etching (DAE) as a control. To note, the titanium implants were coated with 10 nm in diameter HA particles using the Promimic HAnano method. Our data reveals that HAnano® modulates higher expression of genes related with endothelial cell performance and viability, such as VEGF, eNOS, and AKT, and further angiogenesis in vitro by promoting endothelial cell migration. Additionally, the data shows a significant extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, and this finding seems developing a dual role in promoting the expression of VEGF and control endothelial cell growth during angiogenesis. Altogether, these data prompted us to further validate this phenomenon by exploring genes related with the control of cell cycle and in fact our data shows that HAnano® promotes higher expression of CDK4 gene, while p21 and p15 genes (suppressor genes) were significantly lower. In conjunction, our data shows for the first time that HAnano®-coated surfaces drive angiogenesis by stimulating a proliferative and migration phenotype of endothelial cells, and this finding opens novel comprehension about osseointegration mechanism considering nanosized hydroxyapatite coating dental implants.

Metabolic effects of CoCr-enriched medium on shear-stressed endothelial cell and osteoblasts: A possible mechanism involving a hypoxic condition on bone healing

Cobalt-chromium (CoCr)-based alloys have emerged as an interesting biomaterial within biomedical field, mainly considering their biocompatibility, resistance to corrosion and absence of magnetism; however, its effect on cell metabolism is barely known and this prompted us better evaluating whether CoCr-enriched medium affects the metabolism of both osteoblast and endothelial cells, and also if there is a coupling between them. This is also considered here the already-known effect of Cobalt (Co) as a hypoxic element. Firstly, discs of CoCr [subjecting (W) or not (Wo) to dual acid-etched (DAE)] were incubated into FBS-free cell culture medium up to 24 h (37 °C). This CoCr-enriched medium was further used to treat shear-stressed endothelial cells cultures up to 72 h. Thereafter, the conditioned medium containing metabolites of shear-stressed endothelial cells in response to CoCr-enriched medium was further used to subject osteoblast's cultures, when the samples were properly harvested to allow the analysis of the molecular issues. Our data shows that CoCr-enriched medium contains 1.5 ng-2.0 ng/mL of Co, which was captured by endothelial cells and osteoblasts in about 30% in amount and it seems modulate their metabolic pathways: shear-stressed endothelial cells expressed higher profile of HIF1α, VEGF and nNOS genes, while their global profile of protein carbonylation was lower than the control cultures, suggesting lower oxidative stress commitment. Additionally, osteoblasts responding to metabolites of CoCr-challenged endothelial cells show dynamic expression of marker genes in osteogenic differentiation, with alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin, and bone sialoprotein (BSP) genes being significantly increased. Additionally, tensional shear-stress forces decrease the stimulus for ColA1gene expression in osteoblasts responding to endothelial cells metabolites, as well as modifying the extracellular matrix remodeling related genes. Analyzing the activities of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), the data shows that shear-stressed endothelial cells metabolites increase the activities of both MMP9 and MMP2 in osteoblasts. Altogether, our data shows for the first time that shear-stressed endothelial metabolites responding to CoCr discs contribute to osteogenic phenotype in vitro, and this predicts an active crosstalk between angiogenesis and osteogenesis during osseointegration of CoCr alloy and bone healing, maybe guided by the Co-induced hypoxic condition.

Infraphysiological 17β-estradiol (E2) concentration compromises osteoblast differentiation through Src stimulation of cell proliferation and ECM remodeling stimulus

It has been shown that 17β-estradiol (E2) helps to prevent bone loss. This study was undertaken to verify whether E2 action in human osteoblasts involves changes in the transcriptional profile of the TNF-α, IFN-γ, NF-κB, TRAIL, TGF-β, MMP2, MMP9, RECK, TIMP1, TIMP2, CDK2, CDK4, SRC, RUNX2, and SHH genes. Infraphysiological doses of E2 elevated mRNAs in all genes except for INF-γ, TRAIL, and TGF-β. Importantly, a significant increase in the CDKs -2 and -4 genes was found, which strongly suggests cell cycle progression, with a potential dependency of Src involvement, as well as a suppression of the osteoblast differentiation machinery, with ECM remodeling being involved. These data suggest that E2 plays an important role in bone formation and remodeling, and Src seems to play a pivotal role in driving cell proliferation and ECM remodeling. Taken together, these findings contribute to an understanding of the effects of infraphysiological E2 on modulating bone homeostasis, favoring bone resorption, and leading to osteoporosis.

Osteogenic gene markers are epigenetically reprogrammed during contractile-to-calcifying vascular smooth muscle cell phenotype transition

The understanding of vascular calcification-based mechanism is an urgent pending task in vascular biology and this prompted us to better address this issue by investigating whether DNA methylation mechanism might drive osteogenic marker genes modulation in primary human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) responding to calcium and phosphate levels overload up to 72 h. Firstly, our data shows this calcifying process recapitulates the molecular repertory of osteogenic biomarkers and specifically requiring RUNX2, Osterix and ALP, BSP genes activations along 72 h in vitro, and this behavior was validated here using other lineages. Conversely, both BMPs 4 and 7 were significantly overexpressed, maybe already as a mechanism in response to RUNX2 and Osterix genes activities identified earlier in response to the calcifying condition, and taken into maintain the calcifying phenotype of VSMCs. Additionally, survival signaling was maintained active and accompanied by a dynamic cytoskeleton rearrangement signaling requiring MAPK and AKT phosphorylations. Moreover, during the contractile-to-calcifying transition phenotype of VSMCs, epigenetic machinery was finely modulated, requiring the translocation of DNMT3B and TET2 into nucleus and this prompted us evaluating whether the profile of osteogenic-related gene promoters' methylation might contribute with this process. By firstly estimating 5meC/5 hmeC ratio changes, we further specifically show the significance of the epigenetic modulation of Osterix and Bone sialoprotein related gene promoters, presenting a positive correlation between the epigenetic signature of their gene promoters and transcriptional patterns. Altogether, our results show for the first time the importance of epigenetic mechanism on modulating osteogenic gene markers reprogramming during calcifying VSMCs phenotype acquisition, which might drive the genesis of vascular ectopic calcification.

Fibroblast-secreted trophic factors contribute with ECM remodeling stimulus and upmodulate osteocyte gene markers in osteoblasts

As osteogenesis is a multifactorial mechanism, we wonder whether osteoblast-induced extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling might be modulated by trophic factors released by fibroblasts in a paracrine signaling manner. To address this issue, fibroblasts were cultured for 72 h under conventional conditions when their conditioned medium was harvested and used to challenge pre-osteoblasts (MC3T3-E1 cells) for 14 days. Preliminarily, we validated the potential effect of fibroblasts in contributing to osteocyte phenotype, which specifically requires significant expression of Dentin Matrix Protein 1 (DMP1; about 10-fold changes) and Sclerostin (SOST; about 7-fold changes), both biomarkers of osteocyte. Fibroblasts also seem contributing to ECM remodeling in osteoblasts, because we detected a high level of both mRNA and enzyme activities of matrix metalloproteinase -9 (MMP-9) as well as a high level of reversion inducing cysteine rich protein with kazal motifs (RECK) transcripts (about 13-fold changes), a membrane-anchored MMP inhibitor, which seems to be a constitutive pathway in osteoblasts. Considering inflammatory panorama and using RTqPCR technology, both IL-13 (about 13-fold changes) and IL-33 (about 5-fold changes) genes were up-expressed in response to the fibroblast-secreted trophic factors, as were the receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL; about 8-fold changes) and osteoprotegerin (OPG; about 3-fold changes). Although preliminary, these data suggest a stimulus to finely control osteoclastogenesis, and this mechanism reinforces the role of fibroblasts in bone remodeling and homeostasis. Moreover, these results suggest an important crosstalk between fibroblast and osteoblast, when fibroblast-secreted trophic factors upmodulate osteocyte gene markers and contribute to ECM remodeling stimulus in osteoblast.

Updating the role of matrix metalloproteinases in mineralized tissue and related diseases

Bone development and healing processes involve a complex cascade of biological events requiring well-orchestrated synergism with bone cells, growth factors, and other trophic signaling molecules and cellular structures. Beyond health processes, MMPs play several key roles in the installation of heart and blood vessel related diseases and cancer, ranging from accelerating metastatic cells to ectopic vascular mineralization by smooth muscle cells in complementary manner. The tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs) have an important role in controlling proteolysis. Paired with the post-transcriptional efficiency of specific miRNAs, they modulate MMP performance. If druggable, these molecules are suggested to be a platform for development of "smart" medications and further clinical trials. Thus, considering the pleiotropic effect of MMPs on mammals, the purpose of this review is to update the role of those multifaceted proteases in mineralized tissues in health, such as bone, and pathophysiological disorders, such as ectopic vascular calcification and cancer.

Titanium-enriched medium drives low profile of ECM remodeling as a pre-requisite to pre-osteoblast viability and proliferative phenotype

Titanium is widely used for biomedical applications, but little information is being delivered regarding the cellular/molecular mechanisms explaining their efficacy, mainly considering the effects of the Ti-released trace elements on pre-osteoblasts. We addressed this issue by investigating decisive intracellular signal transduction able to modulate cytoskeleton rearrangement, proliferative phenotype and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. We considered titanium grades IV and V, submitted or not to dual acid-etching (w/DAE or wo/DAE, respectively). Our results showed there is no cytotoxicity, preserving AKT involvement. Additionally, Ti-enriched medium promoted a diminution of the downstream signaling upon integrin activation (phosphorylating Rac1 and cofilin), guaranteeing a dynamic cytoskeleton rearrangement. Moreover, the low profile of ECM remodeling obtained in response to trace molecules released by Ti-based devices seems contributing to the osteoblast performance in mediating extracellular support to cell anchorage. This hypothesis was validated by the up-expression of ß1-integrin, src and Focal adhesion kinase (fak) genes, mainly in response to titanium grade V. Proliferative phenotype showed an unbalance between cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) and p15^INK4b/p21^Cip1. In conjunction, we showed for the first time that trace elements from Ti-based biomedical devices provoke important modulation of the osteoblast biology, driving cell anchoring, viability, and proliferative phenotype. Certainly, these biological outcomes compromise implant osseointegration.

Evaluation of the presence of MMP-2, TIMP-2, BMP2/4, and TGFβ3 in the facial tissue of children with cleft lip and palate

Cleft lip and palate (CLP) is the most common defect affecting the face. The treatment consists of surgical reconstruction of the anatomical structures of the cleft. Part of the surgical treatment is reconstruction of the alveolar bone by means of autogenic bone grafting (osteoplasty). This study aimed to evaluate the levels of expression of extracellular matrix remodeling factors in the facial tissue of children with a complete unilateral (CU) and a complete bilateral (CB) CLP to assess whether the wound healing process is adequate. Twenty-two CLP patients were enrolled in this study. Tissue samples were collected during alveolar osteoplasty for unilateral (n = 12) or bilateral (n = 10) cleft palate, (age range from 6 years 8 months to 12 years 2 months). Control material was obtained in the case of tooth extraction (age range from 6 years 9 months to 14 years 5 months). Immunohistochemistry was used to assess the levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2), bone morphogenetic proteins 2 and 4 (BMP2/4), and transforming growth factor β3 (TGFβ3). Numbers of positively stained cells were graded semi-quantitatively. Data were analysed using the Kraskel-Wallis rank test and the Bonferroni correction. The total number of MMP2-positive cells was significantly lower in the CBCLP and in the control group than in the CUCLP (p < 0.001 after the Bonferroni correction). The total number of TIMP2-positive cells was significantly higher in the CUCLP than in the CBCLP and in the control group (p < 0.001; p < 0.003 after the Bonferroni correction). The overall number of BMP2/4, TGFβ3-positive cells was significantly higher in the CUCLP than in the CBCLP and in the control group (p < 0.001 after the Bonferroni correction). The decrease of the relative amount of statistically significant BMP2/4, TGFβ3, MMP-2, TIMP-2 containing bone cells in CBCLP patients identifies affected alveolar bone regeneration and remodeling process.

Nano hydroxyapatite-blasted titanium surface creates a biointerface able to govern Src-dependent osteoblast metabolism as prerequisite to ECM remodeling

Over the last several years, we have focused on the importance of intracellular signaling pathways in dynamically governing the biointerface between pre-osteoblast and surface of biomaterial. Thus, this study investigates the molecular hallmarks involved in the pre-osteoblast relationship with different topography considering Machined (Mc), Dual Acid-Etching (DAE), and nano hydroxyapatite-blasted (nHA) groups. There was substantial differences in topography of titanium surface, considering Atomic Force Microscopy and water contact angle (Mc = 81.41 ± 0.01; DAE = 97.18 ± 0.01; nHA = 40.95 ± 0.02). Later, to investigate their topography differences on biological responses, pre-osteoblast was seeded on the different surfaces and biological samples were collected after 24 h (to consider adhesion signaling) and 10 days (to consider differentiation signaling). Preliminary results evidenced significant differences in morphological changes of pre-osteoblasts mainly resulting from the interaction with the DAE and nHA, distinguishing cellular adaptation. These results pushed us to analyze activation of specific genes by exploring qPCR technology. In sequence, we showed that Src performs crucial roles during cell adhesion and later differentiation of the pre-osteoblast in relationship with titanium-based biomaterials, as our results confirmed strong feedback of the Src activity on the integrin-based pathway, because integrin-ß1 (∼5-fold changes), FAK (∼12-fold changes), and Src (∼3.5-fold changes) were significantly up-expressed when Src was chemically inhibited by PP1 (5 μM). Moreover, ECM-related genes were rigorously reprogrammed in response to the different surfaces, resulting on Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP) activities concomitant to a significant decrease of MMP inhibitors. In parallel, we showed PP1-based Src inhibition promotes a significant increase of MMP activity. Taking all our results into account, we showed for the first time nano hydroxyapatite-blasted titanium surface creates a biointerface able to govern Src-dependent osteoblast metabolism as pre-requisite to ECM remodeling.

Matrix Metalloproteinases in Bone Resorption, Remodeling, and Repair

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are the major protease family responsible for the cleavage of the matrisome (global composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM) proteome) and proteins unrelated to the ECM, generating bioactive molecules. These proteins drive ECM remodeling, in association with tissue-specific and cell-anchored inhibitors (TIMPs and RECK, respectively). In the bone, the ECM mediates cell adhesion, mechanotransduction, nucleation of mineralization, and the immobilization of growth factors to protect them from damage or degradation. Since the first description of an MMP in bone tissue, many other MMPs have been identified, as well as their inhibitors. Numerous functions have been assigned to these proteins, including osteoblast/osteocyte differentiation, bone formation, solubilization of the osteoid during bone resorption, osteoclast recruitment and migration, and as a coupling factor in bone remodeling under physiological conditions. In turn, a number of pathologies, associated with imbalanced bone remodeling, arise mainly from MMP overexpression and abnormalities of the ECM, leading to bone osteolysis or bone formation. In this review, we will discuss the functions of MMPs and their inhibitors in bone cells, during bone remodeling, pathological bone resorption (osteoporosis and bone metastasis), bone repair/regeneration, and emergent roles in bone bioengineering.

Fluoride affects bone repair differently in mice models with distinct bone densities

We grouped mice [strains: C57BL/6J (n=32) and C3H/HeJ (n=32)] to address the influence of bone density on fluoride's (F's) biological effects. These animals received low-fluoride food and water containing 0 (control group) or 50ppm of F for up to 28days. The upper left central incisor was extracted, and the left maxilla was collected at 7, 14, 21, and 28days for histological and histomorphometric analysis to estimate bone neoformation. Our results showed bone neoformation in all of the evaluated groups, with the presence of bone islets invading the center of the alveoli when replacing the existing connective tissue. Curiously, this biological phenomenon was more evident in the C57BL/6J strain. The histomorphometric analysis confirmed the histological findings in relation to the amount of new bone tissue and showed a decrease in C3H/HeJ mice (control group). Altogether, our results showed differential effects of fluoride bone metabolism, confirming a genetic component in susceptibility to the effects of fluoride.

Expression of inflammatory cytokines and MMPs on replanted teeth at different extra-alveolar time: an ex vivo and in vivo study

BACKGROUND

Immediately after the avulsed tooth is replanted, a complex inflammatory response ensues. As part of the periodontium healing process, the extracellular matrix macromolecules are essential to create the cellular environment required during healing and morphogenesis.

AIM

This study was designed to evaluate the correlation between different extra-alveolar dry times and inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) as part of the periodontal ligament (PDL) gene expression.

DESIGN

The first phase of the study aimed testing human PDL cells ex vivo. Extracted teeth were dried for 15 and 30 min. The PDL cells were extracted and analyzed by qRT-PCR. The second phase was performed in vivo, and 36 Sprague Dawley rat first maxillary molars were extracted and replanted after 15, 30, and 60 min extra-alveolar time. We tested the levels of inflammatory cytokines and MMPS in periodontal tissue at 3, 7, and 28 days after tooth replantation. The replanted area was dissected, grounded, and analyzed by RT-PCR.

RESULTS

Expressions of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and MMP-3 and MMP-9 were significantly higher in the replanted teeth. Extended dry time had a direct correlation with induction of pro-inflammatory cytokine and MMPs in PDL cells.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that pro-inflammatory cytokines were more significantly expressed in the tissues surrounding the replanted teeth. Future research must be undertaken to additionally confirm the release of these cytokines and be focused on the inhibition of these cytokines to reduce inflammation of replanted teeth.

A Molecular View of Pathological Microcalcification in Breast Cancer

Breast microcalcification is a potential diagnostic indicator for non-palpable breast cancers. Microcalcification type I (calcium oxalate) is restricted to benign tissue, whereas type II (calcium hydroxyapatite) occurs both in benign as well as in malignant lesions. Microcalcification is a pathological complication of the mammary gland. Over the past few decades, much attention has been paid to exploit this property, which forms the basis for advances in diagnostic procedures and imaging techniques. The mechanism of its formation is still poorly understood. Hence, in this paper, we have attempted to address the molecular mechanism of microcalcification in breast cancer. The central theme of this communication is "how a subpopulation of heterogeneous breast tumor cells attains an osteoblast-like phenotype, and what activities drive the process of pathophysiological microcalcification, especially at the invasive or infiltrating front of breast tumors". The role of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) along with epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in manipulating this pathological process has been highlighted. Therefore, this review offers a novel insight into the mechanism underlying the development of microcalcification in breast carcinomas.

RECK (reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs) regulates migration, differentiation and Wnt/β-catenin signaling in human mesenchymal stem cells

The membrane-anchored glycoprotein RECK (reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs) inhibits expression and activity of certain matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), thereby suppressing tumor cell metastasis. However, RECK's role in physiological cell function is largely unknown. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are able to differentiate into various cell types and represent promising tools in multiple clinical applications including the regeneration of injured tissues by endogenous or transplanted hMSCs. RNA interference of RECK in hMSCs revealed that endogenous RECK suppresses the transcription and biosynthesis of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-2 but does not influence the expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, membrane type (MT)1-MMP and TIMP-1 in these cells. Knockdown of RECK in hMSCs promoted monolayer regeneration and chemotactic migration of hMSCs, as demonstrated by scratch wound and chemotaxis assay analyses. Moreover, expression of endogenous RECK was upregulated upon osteogenic differentiation and diminished after adipogenic differentiation of hMSCs. RECK depletion in hMSCs reduced their capacity to differentiate into the osteogenic lineage whereas adipogenesis was increased, demonstrating that RECK functions as a master switch between both pathways. Furthermore, knockdown of RECK in hMSCs attenuated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway as indicated by reduced stability and impaired transcriptional activity of β-catenin. The latter was determined by analysis of the β-catenin target genes Dickkopf1 (DKK1), axis inhibition protein 2 (AXIN2), runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) and a luciferase-based β-catenin-activated reporter (BAR) assay. Our findings demonstrate that RECK is a regulator of hMSC functions suggesting that modulation of RECK may improve the development of hMSC-based therapeutical approaches in regenerative medicine.

Intramembranous bone healing process subsequent to tooth extraction in mice: micro-computed tomography, histomorphometric and molecular characterization

Bone tissue has a significant potential for healing, which involves a significant the interplay between bone and immune cells. While fracture healing represents a useful model to investigate endochondral bone healing, intramembranous bone healing models are yet to be developed and characterized. In this study, a micro-computed tomography, histomorphometric and molecular (RealTimePCRarray) characterization of post tooth-extraction alveolar bone healing was performed on C57Bl/6 WT mice. After the initial clot dominance (0h), the development of a provisional immature granulation tissue is evident (7d), characterized by marked cell proliferation, angiogenesis and inflammatory cells infiltration; associated with peaks of growth factors (BMP-2-4-7,TGFβ1,VEGFa), cytokines (TNFα, IL-10), chemokines & receptors (CXCL12, CCL25, CCR5, CXCR4), matrix (Col1a1-2, ITGA4, VTN, MMP1a) and MSCs (CD105, CD106, OCT4, NANOG, CD34, CD146) markers expression. Granulation tissue is sequentially replaced by more mature connective tissue (14d), characterized by inflammatory infiltrate reduction along the increased bone formation, marked expression of matrix remodeling enzymes (MMP-2-9), bone formation/maturation (RUNX2, ALP, DMP1, PHEX, SOST) markers, and chemokines & receptors associated with healing (CCL2, CCL17, CCR2). No evidences of cartilage cells or tissue were observed, strengthening the intramembranous nature of bone healing. Bone microarchitecture analysis supports the evolving healing, with total tissue and bone volumes as trabecular number and thickness showing a progressive increase over time. The extraction socket healing process is considered complete (21d) when the dental socket is filled by trabeculae bone with well-defined medullary canals; it being the expression of mature bone markers prevalent at this period. Our data confirms the intramembranous bone healing nature of the model used, revealing parallels between the gene expression profile and the histomorphometric events and the potential participation of MCSs and immune cells in the healing process, supporting the forthcoming application of the model for the better understanding of the bone healing process.

Involvement of RECK in gambogic acid induced anti-invasive effect in A549 human lung carcinoma cells

Gambogic acid (GA), a xanthone derived from the resin of the Garcinia hanburyi, has been demonstrated possessing anti-metastatic activity in vitro and in vivo. Reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs (RECK), a membrane-anchored glycoprotein negatively regulating matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), plays an important role in tumor invasion and metastasis. The present study investigates the regulatory effect of GA on RECK expression and the role of RECK in GA-induced anti-invasion in A549 human lung cancer cells. Our results showed that GA dose-dependently inhibited cell invasion and suppressed A549 experimental lung metastasis in vivo, which was attributed to RECK up-regulation at both protein and mRNA levels. With small interference RNA (siRNA) blocking RECK expression, we found inhibition of RECK decreased the GA-induced inhibition of MMP-2/9, which was in consistent with the attenuated anti-invasive effect of GA. Further study indicated that GA effectively suppressed Histone deacetylase (HDAC) 1/specificity protein (Sp) 1 binding and Sp1 phosphorylation associating with Extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) signaling blocking, leading to RECK up-regulation. Taken together, these data demonstrate that RECK contributes to GA's anti-invasive activity and provide new evidence for GA being served as a therapeutic candidate for cancer metastasis.

Evaluation of gelatinases, tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2, and myeloperoxidase protein in healthy and inflamed human dental pulp tissue

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to compare the gelatinolytic activity of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 and the expression of tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP)-2 and myeloperoxidase protein (MPO) in clinically healthy human pulp and inflamed pulp tissue specimens.

METHODS

Twenty dental pulps clinically diagnosed as inflammatory tissues and 20 healthy pulp tissues from enclosed third molars were harvested and evaluated. The gelatinolytic activity for MMP-2 and MMP-9 was assessed by using the zymography technique, TIMP-2 gene expression was evaluated using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and MPO was determined using the MPO assay.

RESULTS

Data showed increased levels of MMP-9, active MMP-2, TIMP-2, and MPO in inflammatory pulp tissues compared with healthy tissues (P < .05). No statistical difference could be observed for pro-MMP-2 (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Although all samples were associated with MMP-2 expression, the active form of this MMP was observed only in inflamed pulps. Inflamed pulps showed an up-regulation of MMP-9, TIMP-2, and MPO.

Estrogen suppresses expression of the matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs (RECK) within the mouse uterus

RECK (reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs) is a membrane-anchored glycoprotein which regulates MMP2 and MMP9 activity and has been proposed to play a role in embryo implantation while misexpression of RECK has been associated with a variety of carcinomas. Unfortunately, understanding on the steroidal regulation of uterine RECK is lacking. To address this gap in our knowledge, we examined steroidal regulation and cellular expression of Reck mRNA and protein within the mouse uterus in vivo. Uterine Reck mRNA and protein were decreased by estrogen, while progesterone alone had no effect. The estrogen-induced down regulation could be partially blocked by progesterone. RECK was localized primarily to luminal and glandular epithelial cells and the level of expression was regulated in a similar fashion as in whole tissue by the steroids. Knock-down of endogenous RECK in human endometrial epithelial and stromal cells resulted in a significant increase in active MMP9 expression but not that of pro-MMP9 or MMP2. These studies demonstrate that RECK expression in the mouse uterus is steroidally regulated and that within endometrial epithelial and stromal cells, RECK regulates MMP9, but not MMP2 activity.

Growth Differentiation Factor 5 (GDF-5) Induces Matrix Metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) Expression in Periodontal Ligament Cells and Modulates MMP-2 and MMP-13 Activity in Osteoblasts

Growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF-5), a member of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily expressed in periodontal tissues, promotes extracellular matrix (ECM) in periodontal ligament (PDL) cells. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) are proteolytic enzymes that degrade ECM and are expressed in PDL cells. To date, little is known about the regulation of MMP synthesis and secretion in PDL cells. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of GDF-5 on MMP production and activity in PDL cells. GDF-5 increased both collagen type I alpha 2 (Col Iα2) and MMP-2 gene expression in cells derived from mouse PDL tissues after 3 days of culture. Because PDL cells represent a heterogeneous population, we examined gelatinolytic activity and gene expression profiles in an osteoblast cell line. After 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours of culture, GDF-5 increased both Col Iα2 and MMP gene expression in osteoblasts. GDF-5 also promoted MMP-2 activity as revealed by gelatin zymography after 7 days of culture. In the presence of the p38 MAP kinase inhibitor SB202190, on the other hand, MMP-2 activity was blocked. Taken together, these results indicate that GDF-5 may increase simultaneously the gene expression of type I collagen and MMP-2 in the osteoblast-like cells among the PDL cells and p38 MAP kinase pathway in osteoblast could involve in the regulation of MMP-2 enzyme activity induced by GDF-5.

Development of secondary palate requires strict regulation of ECM remodeling: sequential distribution of RECK, MMP-2, MMP-3, and MMP-9

We have evaluated RECK (reversion-inducing-cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs), MMP-2 (matrix metalloproteinase-2), MMP-3, and MMP-9 involvement during palate development in mice by using various techniques. Immunohistochemical features revealed the distribution of RECK, MMP-2, and MMP-3 in the mesenchymal tissue and in the midline epithelial seam at embryonic day 13 (E13), MMPs-2, -3, and -9 being particularly expressed at E14 and E14.5. In contrast, RECK was weakly immunostained at these times. Involvement of MMPs was validated by measuring not only their protein expression, but also their activity (zymograms). In situ hybridization signal (ISH) for RECK transcript was distributed in mesenchymal and epithelial regions within palatal shelves at all periods evaluated. Importantly, the results from ISH analysis were in accord with those obtained by real-time polymerase chain reaction. The expression of RECK was found to be temporally regulated, which suggested possible roles in palatal ontogeny. Taken together, our results clearly show that remodeling of the extracellular matrix is finely modulated during secondary palate development and occurs in a sequential manner.

In situ zymography and immunolabeling in fixed and decalcified craniofacial tissues

In situ zymography is a very important technique that shows the proteolytic activity in sections and allows researchers to observe the specific sites of proteolysis in tissues or cells. It is normally performed in non-fixed frozen sections and is not routinely performed in calcified tissues. In this study, we describe a technique that maintains proteolytic activity in fixed and decalcified sections obtained after routine paraffin sectioning in conventional microtome and cryostat sections. We used adult rat hemimandibles, which presented bone, enamel, and dentine matrices; the substrate used was dye-quenched-gelatin. Gelatinolytic activity was colocalized with MMP-2 using fluorescent antibodies. Specific proteolytic activity was observed in all sections, compatible with metalloproteinase activity, particularly in dentine and bone. Furthermore, matrix metalloproteinase-2 was colocalized to the sites of green fluorescence in dentine. In conclusion, the technique presented here will allow in situ zymography reactions in fixed, decalcified, and paraffin-embedded tissues, and we showed that paraformaldehyde-lysine-periodate-fixed cryostat sections are suitable for colocalization of gelatinolytic activity and protein labeling with antibodies.

Ascorbate-induced osteoblast differentiation recruits distinct MMP-inhibitors: RECK and TIMP-2

The bone formation executed by osteoblasts represents an interesting research field both for basic and applied investigations. The goal of this work was to evaluate the molecular mechanisms involved during osteoblast differentiation in vitro. Accordingly, we demonstrated that, during the osteoblastic differentiation, TIMP-2 and RECK presented differential expressions, where RECK expression was downregulated from the 14th day in contrast with an increase in TIMP-2. Concomitantly, our results showed a temporal regulation of two major signaling cascades during osteoblast differentiation: proliferation cascades in which RECK, PI3 K, and GSK-3beta play a pivotal role and latter, differentiation cascades with participation of Ras, Rho, Rac-1, PKC alpha/beta, and TIMP-2. Furthermore, we observed that phosphorylation level of paxillin was downregulated while FAK(125) remained unchangeable, but active during extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. Concluding, our results provide evidences that RECK and TIMP-2 are involved in the control of ECM remodeling in distinct phases of osteoblast differentiation by modulating MMP activities and a multitude of signaling proteins governs these events.

Regulation of cell invasion and signalling pathways in the pituitary adenoma cell line, HP-75, by reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with kazal motifs (RECK)

Degradation and remodelling of the extracellular matrix has been investigated, with the main focus on the balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP). Recent reports disclose the presence of a novel MMP-inhibiting cell membrane-anchored glycoprotein designated 'reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs' (RECK). Our main aim in this study was to elucidate the role of RECK in cell invasion of pituitary adenomas and its contribution to signal transduction. The function of RECK in cell invasion was investigated by comparing data obtained from full-length RECK clone transfection and gene silencing with RECK mRNA-targeting siRNA. RECK expression was confirmed using real-time RT-PCR and Western blotting. Levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and -9) and TIMP-1 were measured by zymography and reverse zymography, respectively. Cell invasion was examined with a 3-D invasion assay. The signal cascade was investigated by cDNA microarray analysis. As expected, expression of RECK was elevated upon cDNA transfection, and diminished using siRNA. We observed elevation of MMP-2 and -9 expression and consequent 3-D cell invasion in cells under-expressing RECK. However, TIMP expression was not affected by RECK. Analysis with cDNA microarray revealed that RECK additionally upregulates growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor (GHRHR) and latrophilin 2 at the transcriptional level. Our findings collectively suggest that RECK regulates the cell signalling pathway, playing a critical neuroendocrinological role in the pituitary adenoma cell line.