Role of endogenous PGE2 in osteoblastic functions of a clonal osteoblast-like cell, MC3T3-E1

Osteoimmunomodulatory potential of 3D printed submicron patterns assessed in a direct co-culture model

Modulation of the immune response following the implantation of biomaterials can have beneficial effects on bone regeneration. This involves complex interactions between the inflammatory and osteogenic cells. Therefore, the study of cell-cell interactions using direct co-culture models integrated with biomaterials is of great interest. This research aimed to study the viability, morphology, and osteogenic activity of preosteoblasts (OBs) co-cultured with pro-inflammatory macrophages (M1s) on the 3D printed (non)patterned surfaces. OBs and M1s remained alive and proliferated actively for 14 days in the mixture of Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium (DMEM) and alpha Minimum Essential Medium (α-MEM) (1:1), regardless of the cell ratio in the co-cultures. The spatial organization of the two types of cells changed with the time of culture from an initially uniform cell distribution to the formation of a thick layer of OBs covered by clusters of M1s. On day 7, the expression of PGE2 and TNF-α were upregulated in the co-culture relative to the mono-culture of OBs and M1s. The inflammation decreased differentiation and matrix mineralization of OBs after 28 days of culture. Interestingly, the incorporation of 3D printed submicron pillars into the direct co-culture model enhanced the differentiation of preosteoblasts, as shown by relatively higher RUNX2 expression, thereby revealing the osteoimmunomodulatory potential of such surface patterns.

Prostacyclin regulates bone growth via the Epac/Rap1 pathway

Prostaglandins, particularly PGE2, are important to adult bone and joint health, but how prostaglandins act on growth plate cartilage to affect bone growth is unclear. We show that growth plate cartilage is distinct from articular cartilage with respect to cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 mRNA expression; although articular chondrocytes express very little COX-2, COX-2 expression is high in growth plate chondrocytes and is increased by IGF-I. In bovine primary growth plate chondrocytes, ATDC5 cells, and human metatarsal explants, inhibition of COX activity with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) inhibits chondrocyte proliferation and ERK activation by IGF-I. This inhibition is reversed by prostaglandin E2 and prostacyclin (PGI2) but not by prostaglandin D2 or thromboxane B2. Inhibition of COX activity in young mice by ip injections of NSAIDs causes dwarfism. In growth plate chondrocytes, inhibition of proliferation and ERK activation by NSAIDs is reversed by forskolin, 8-bromoadenosine, 3',5'-cAMP and a prostacyclin analog, iloprost. The inhibition of proliferation and ERK activation by celecoxib is also reversed by 8CPT-2Me-cAMP, an activator of Epac, implicating the small G protein Rap1 in the pathway activated by iloprost. These results imply that prostacyclin is required for proper growth plate development and bone growth.

Expression of nociceptive ligands in canine osteosarcoma

Background

Canine osteosarcoma (OS) is associated with localized pain as a result of tissue injury from tumor infiltration and peritumoral inflammation. Malignant bone pain is caused by stimulation of peripheral pain receptors, termed nociceptors, which reside in the localized tumor microenvironment, including the periosteal and intramedullary bone cavities. Several nociceptive ligands have been determined to participate directly or indirectly in generating bone pain associated with diverse skeletal abnormalities.

Hypothesis

Canine OS cells actively produce nociceptive ligands with the capacity to directly or indirectly activate peripheral pain receptors residing in the bone tumor microenvironment.

Animals

Ten dogs with appendicular OS.

Methods

Expression of nerve growth factor, endothelin‐1, and microsomal prostaglandin E synthase‐1 was characterized in OS cell lines and naturally occurring OS samples. In 10 dogs with OS, circulating concentrations of nociceptive ligands were quantified and correlated with subjective pain scores and tumor volume in patients treated with standardized palliative therapies.

Results

Canine OS cells express and secrete nerve growth factor, endothelin‐1, and prostaglandin E2. Naturally occurring OS samples uniformly express nociceptive ligands. In a subset of OS‐bearing dogs, circulating nociceptive ligand concentrations were detectable but failed to correlate with pain status. Localized foci of nerve terminal proliferation were identified in a minority of primary bone tumor samples.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Canine OS cells express nociceptive ligands, potentially permitting active participation of OS cells in the generation of malignant bone pain. Specific inhibitors of nociceptive ligand signaling pathways might improve pain control in dogs with OS.

Prostacyclin suppresses twist expression in the presence of indomethacin in bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells

Background

Iloprost, a stable prostacyclin I₂ analogue, seems to have an osteoblast-protective potential, whereas indomethacin suppresses new bone formation. The aim of this study was to investigate human bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC) proliferation and differentiation towards the osteoblastic lineage by administration of indomethacin and/or iloprost.

Material/Methods

Human bone marrow cells were obtained from 3 different donors (A=26 yrs/m; B=25 yrs/f, C=35 yrs/m) via vacuum aspiration of the iliac crest followed by density gradient centrifugation and flow cytometry with defined antigens (CD105+/73+/45−/14−). The cells were seeded and incubated as follows: without additives (Group 0; donor A/B/C), with 10⁻⁷ M iloprost only (Group 0+ilo; A/B), with indomethacin only in concentrations of 10⁻⁶ M (Group 1, A), 10⁻⁵ M (Group 2, B), 10⁻⁴ M (Group 3, A/B), and together with 10⁻⁷ M iloprost (Groups 4–6, A/B/C). On Day 10 and 28, UV/Vis spectrometric and immunocytochemical assays (4 samples per group and donor) were performed to investigate cell proliferation (cell count measurement) and differentiation towards the osteoblastic lineage (CD34−, CD45−, CD105+, type 1 collagen (Col1), osteocalcin (OC), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Runx2, Twist, specific ALP-activity).

Results

Indomethacin alone suppressed BMSC differentiation towards the osteoblastic lineage by downregulation of Runx2, Col1, and ALP. In combination with indomethacin, iloprost increased cell proliferation and differentiation and it completely suppressed Twist expression at Day 10 and 28. Iloprost alone did not promote cell proliferation, but moderately enhanced Runx2 and Twist expression. However, the proliferative effects and the specific ALP-activity varied donor-dependently.

Conclusions

Iloprost partially antagonized the suppressing effects of indomethacin on BMSC differentiation towards the osteoblast lineage. It enhanced the expression of Runx2 and, only in the presence of indomethacin, it completely suppressed Twist. Thus, in the treatment of avascular osteonecrosis or painful bone marrow edema, the undesirable effects of indomethacin might be counterbalanced by iloprost.

Phospholipases of mineralization competent cells and matrix vesicles: roles in physiological and pathological mineralizations

The present review aims to systematically and critically analyze the current knowledge on phospholipases and their role in physiological and pathological mineralization undertaken by mineralization competent cells. Cellular lipid metabolism plays an important role in biological mineralization. The physiological mechanisms of mineralization are likely to take place in tissues other than in bones and teeth under specific pathological conditions. For instance, vascular calcification in arteries of patients with renal failure, diabetes mellitus or atherosclerosis recapitulates the mechanisms of bone formation. Osteoporosis—a bone resorbing disease—and rheumatoid arthritis originating from the inflammation in the synovium are also affected by cellular lipid metabolism. The focus is on the lipid metabolism due to the effects of dietary lipids on bone health. These and other phenomena indicate that phospholipases may participate in bone remodelling as evidenced by their expression in smooth muscle cells, in bone forming osteoblasts, chondrocytes and in bone resorbing osteoclasts. Among various enzymes involved, phospholipases A₁ or A₂, phospholipase C, phospholipase D, autotaxin and sphingomyelinase are engaged in membrane lipid remodelling during early stages of mineralization and cell maturation in mineralization-competent cells. Numerous experimental evidences suggested that phospholipases exert their action at various stages of mineralization by affecting intracellular signaling and cell differentiation. The lipid metabolites—such as arachidonic acid, lysophospholipids, and sphingosine-1-phosphate are involved in cell signaling and inflammation reactions. Phospholipases are also important members of the cellular machinery engaged in matrix vesicle (MV) biogenesis and exocytosis. They may favour mineral formation inside MVs, may catalyse MV membrane breakdown necessary for the release of mineral deposits into extracellular matrix (ECM), or participate in hydrolysis of ECM. The biological functions of phospholipases are discussed from the perspective of animal and cellular knockout models, as well as disease implications, development of potent inhibitors and therapeutic interventions.

The effect of polyunsaturated fatty acids on bone health

The essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are divided into two classes, n-3 (ω-3) and n-6 (ω-6) and their dietary precursors are α-linolenic (ALA) and linoleic acid (LA), respectively. PUFAs are precursors of a wide range of metabolites, for example eicosanoids like prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which play critical roles in the regulation of a variety of biological processes, including bone metabolism.

A large body of evidence supports an effect of PUFA on bone metabolism which may be mediated by regulation of osteoblastogenesis and osteoclast activity, change of membrane function, decrease in inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), modulation of peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and influence in NO secretion and NO synthase.

Animal studies have shown that a higher dietary omega-3/omega-6 fatty acids ratio is associated with beneficial effects on bone health. Human studies conducted in elderly subjects suggest that omega-3 instead of omega-6 has a positive effect on bone metabolism. In spite of increasing evidence, studies conducted in humans do not allow us to draw a definitive conclusion on the usefulness of PUFAs in clinical practice.

Effects of prostaglandin D2 on Na-dependent phosphate transport activity and its intracellular signaling mechanism in osteoblast-like cells

Inorganic phosphate (Pi) transport probably represents an important function of bone-forming cells in relation to extracellular matrix mineralization. In the present study, we investigated the effect of prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) on Pi transport activity and its intracellular signaling mechanism in MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells. PGD2 stimulated Na-dependent Pi uptake time- and dose-dependently in MC3T3-E1 cells during their proliferative phase. A protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor calphostin C partially suppressed the stimulatory effect of PGD2 on Pi uptake. The selective inhibitors of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathways such as ERK, p38 and Jun kinases suppressed PGD2-induced Pi uptake. The inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase and S6 kinase reduced this effect of PGD2, while Akt kinase inhibitor did not. These results suggest that PGD2 stimulates Na-dependent Pi transport activity in the phase of proliferation of osteoblasts. The mechanisms responsible for this effect are activation of PKC, MAP kinases, PI 3-kinase and S6 kinase.

Arachidonic Acid and Prostaglandin E2 Influence Human Osteoblast (MG63) Response to Titanium Surface Roughness

Prior studies have shown that implant surface roughness affects osteoblast proliferation, differentiation, matrix synthesis, and local factor production. Further, cell response is modulated by systemic factors, such as 1,25(OH)2D3 and estrogen as well as mechanical forces. Based on the fact that peri-implant bone healing occurs in a site containing elevated amounts of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), the hypothesis of the current study is that PGE2 and arachidonic acid (AA), the substrate used by cyclooxygenase to form PGE2, influence osteoblast response to implant surface roughness. To test this hypothesis, 4 different types of commercially pure titanium (cpTi) disks with surfaces of varying roughness (smooth Ti, Ra 0.30 μm; smooth and acid etched Ti [SAE Ti], Ra 0.40 μm; rough Ti, Ra 4.3 μm; rough and acid etched Ti [RAE Ti], Ra 4.15μm) were prepared. MG63 osteoblasts were seeded onto the surfaces, cultured to confluence, and then treated for the last 24 hours of culture with AA (0, 0.1, 1, and 10 nM), PGE2 (0, 1, 10, 25, and 100 nM), or the general cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin (0 or 100 nM). At harvest, the effect of treatment on cell proliferation was assessed by measuring cell number and [3H]-thymidine incorporation, and the effect on cell differentiation was determined by measuring alkaline phosphatase (ALP) specific activity. The effect of AA and PGE2 on cell number was somewhat variable but showed a general decrease on plastic and smooth surfaces and an increase on rough surfaces. In contrast, [3H]-thymidine incorporation was uniformly decreased with treatment on all surfaces. ALP demonstrated the most prominent effect of treatment. On smooth surfaces, AA and PGE2 dose-dependently increased ALP, while on rough surfaces, treatment dose-dependently decreased enzyme specific activity. Indomethacin treatment had either no effect or a slightly inhibitory effect on [3H]-thymidine incorporation on all surfaces. In contrast, indomethacin inhibited ALP on smooth surfaces and stimulated ALP on rough. Taken together, the results indicate that both AA and PGE2 influence osteoblast response by promoting osteoblast differentiation on smooth surfaces, while inhibiting it on rough surfaces. Because implants with rough surfaces are acknowledged to be superior to those with smooth surfaces, these results suggest that use of nonsterioidal anti-inflammatory drugs to block PGE2 production and reduce inflammation may be beneficial in the postoperative period after implant placement. They also indicate that manipulation of the AA metabolic pathway may offer a new therapeutic approach for modulating bone healing after implant placement. Because peri-implant healing takes place in a complex cellular environment quite different from the one used in the present study, additional work will be necessary to substantiate these possibilities.

Hypoxia regulates PGE(2) release and EP1 receptor expression in osteoblastic cells

Changes in regional O(2) tension that occur during fracture and skeletal unloading may stimulate local bone cell activity and ultimately regulate bone maintenance and repair. The mechanisms by which bone cells sense and respond to changes in O(2) tension are unclear. In this study we investigated the effects of low O(2) on activation of the hypoxia response element (HRE), prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) production, PGE(2) receptor (EP) expression and proliferation in MC3T3-E1 osteoblastic cells. Cells were cultured for up to 72 h in 2% O(2) (considered hypoxic), 5% O(2) (in the range of normal O(2) tension in vivo) or 21% O(2) (commonly used for cell culture). Cells cultured in 2% O(2) showed activation of the HRE, increased PGE(2) release, increased EP1 expression, and reduced cell proliferation compared to cells grown at 21% O(2). Similarly, cells cultured in 5% O(2) showed increased expression of EP1 and a trend toward a decrease in proliferation, but no activation of the HRE or increase in PGE(2) levels. Expression of EP2, EP3 and EP4 were not affected by O(2) tension. The differences in EP receptor profile observed in cells grown at 5% compared to 21% O(2) suggest that bone cell phenotype may be altered under routine cell culture conditions. Furthermore, our data suggest that hypoxia-dependent PGE(2) production and EP1 expression in bone cells may play a role in bone remodeling and repair in regions of compromised or damaged bone, where O(2) tension is low.

Effects of Endogenous and Exogenous Prostaglandin E2on the Proliferation and Differentiation of a Mouse Cementoblast Cell Line (OCCM-30)

BACKGROUND

Cementum formation is considered to be a critical event for successful regeneration of periodontal tissues. Cementoblasts share many characteristics with osteoblasts. Prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) is an important local factor in bone metabolism. Although the effects of PGE(2) on osteoblasts are well known, its effects on cementoblasts have not yet been established. We examined the effects of PGE(2) on proliferation and differentiation in a mouse cementoblast cell line, OCCM-30 cells.

METHODS

OCCM-30 cells were treated with three concentrations of PGE(2) (10, 100, and 1,000 ng/ml). Cell number, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and expression for mineralization-related genes were determined. Osteoprotegerin (OPG) and receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB) ligand (RANKL) expression were also examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

The addition of PGE(2) at the highest dose used in this study suppressed cell proliferation of OCCM-30 cells. The expression of mineralization-related marker mRNA, such as type 1 collagen, ALP, bone sialoprotein (BSP), and osteocalcin (OCN), was constitutively detected in OCCM-30 cells. PGE(2) dose dependently stimulated ALP activity and BSP-mRNA expression in OCCM-30 cells at day 3. Transcripts for OPG and RANKL and the protein level of OPG in culture media were upregulated with PGE(2) stimulation.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that PGE(2) suppressed cementoblast proliferation but stimulated ALP activity and the BSP-mRNA level, suggesting a role of PGE(2) in controlling cementoblast differentiation, and further indicate that PGE(2) modulates RANKL and OPG expression in cementoblasts; the increase of OPG secreted from cementoblasts with PGE(2) stimulation may be essential to protect the root surface from resorption.

Cyclooxygenases and prostaglandin E2 receptors in growth plate chondrocytes in vitro and in situ--prostaglandin E2 dependent proliferation of growth plate chondrocytes

Prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) plays an important role in bone development and metabolism. To interfere therapeutically in the PGE₂ pathway, however, knowledge about the involved enzymes (cyclooxygenases) and receptors (PGE₂ receptors) is essential. We therefore examined the production of PGE₂ in cultured growth plate chondrocytes in vitro and the effects of exogenously added PGE₂ on cell proliferation. Furthermore, we analysed the expression and spatial distribution of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 and PGE₂ receptor types EP1, EP2, EP3 and EP4 in the growth plate in situ and in vitro. PGE₂ synthesis was determined by mass spectrometry, cell proliferation by DNA [³H]-thymidine incorporation, mRNA expression of cyclooxygenases and EP receptors by RT-PCR on cultured cells and in homogenized growth plates. To determine cellular expression, frozen sections of rat tibial growth plate and primary chondrocyte cultures were stained using immunohistochemistry with polyclonal antibodies directed towards COX-1, COX-2, EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4. Cultured growth plate chondrocytes transiently secreted PGE₂ into the culture medium. Although both enzymes were expressed in chondrocytes in vitro and in vivo, it appears that mainly COX-2 contributed to PGE₂-dependent proliferation. Exogenously added PGE₂ stimulated DNA synthesis in a dose-dependent fashion and gave a bell-shaped curve with a maximum at 10^-8 M. The EP1/EP3 specific agonist sulprostone and the EP1-selective agonist ONO-D1-004 increased DNA synthesis. The effect of PGE₂ was suppressed by ONO-8711. The expression of EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4 receptors in situ and in vitro was observed; EP2 was homogenously expressed in all zones of the growth plate in situ, whereas EP1 expression was inhomogenous, with spared cells in the reserve zone. In cultured cells these four receptors were expressed in a subset of cells only. The most intense staining for the EP1 receptor was found in polygonal cells surrounded by matrix. Expression of receptor protein for EP3 and EP4 was observed also in rat growth plates. In cultured chrondrocytes, however, only weak expression of EP3 and EP4 receptor was detected. We suggest that in growth plate chondrocytes, COX-2 is responsible for PGE₂ release, which stimulates cell proliferation via the EP1 receptor.

Analysis of fatty acid composition in human bone marrow aspirates

In the present study, the fatty acid composition of bone marrow aspirates and serum phospholipids in nine patients with hematologic diseases was investigated, and the effect of fatty acids on osteoblast differentiation in ST2 cells was examined. The concentrations of oleic acid and palmitic acid were significantly higher in bone marrow aspirates than in serum phospholipids, but the concentrations of other fatty acids did not differ. The rate of alkaline phosphatase positive ST2 cells induced by BMP2 was significantly increased by oleic acid, but was unaffected by the presence or absence of palmitic acid. We conclude that the fatty acid composition of bone marrow aspirates differs from that of serum phospholipids. This difference may affect osteoblast differentiation in the bone marrow microenvironment.

Prostaglandins E(2) and F(2alpha) enhance differentiation of cementoblastic cells

BACKGROUND

The prostaglandins (PG) E(2) and PGF(2alpha) are important cytokines in periodontal physiology and pathology. PGE(2) and PGF(2alpha) alter cell function by binding and activating the plasmamembrane G-protein-coupled PG receptors. In this study, we examined the PGE(2) and PGF(2alpha) effects on the immortalized cementoblastic OCCM cells.

METHODS

Confluent OCCM cells were treated with PGE(2), PGF(2alpha), specific activators/inhibitors of the EP prostanoid receptors, a specific activator of the FP prostanoid receptor, and direct activators/inhibitors of the protein kinase C (PKC) signaling pathway. Mineral nodule formation was assessed by the von Kossa stain.

RESULTS

PGE(2) and PGF(2alpha) significantly increased mineralization of OCCM cells. The EP1 and EP3 PG receptor activators 16,16-dimethyl-prostaglandin E(2) and sulprostone, also increased mineralization. In contrast, specific activators of the EP2 or the EP2/EP3/EP4 receptors did not have any effect. Fluprostenol, a specific activator of the FP receptor, significantly increased mineralization of OCCM cells. FP and EP (1 or 3) receptors signal through activation of the protein kinase C (PKC) pathway. Indeed, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), a direct activator of the PKC pathway, significantly increase OCCM mineralization, while pre-treatment of OCCM cells with the PKC inhibitor GF109203x (bisindolylmaleimide) significantly decreased mineralization.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that PGE(2) and PGF(2alpha) exert an anabolic effect on OCCM mineralization through activation of PKC signaling.

Dietary ratio of n-6/n-3 PUFAs and docosahexaenoic acid: actions on bone mineral and serum biomarkers in ovariectomized rats

Hypoestrogenic states escalate bone loss in animals and humans. This study evaluated the effects of the amount and ratio of dietary n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on bone mineral in 3-month-old sexually mature ovariectomized (OVX) Sprague-Dawley rats. For 12 weeks, the rats were fed either a high-PUFA (HP) or a low-PUFA (LP) diet with a ratio of n-6/n-3 PUFAs of 5:1 (HP5 and LP5) or 10:1 (HP10 and LP10). All diets (modified AIN-93G) provided 110.4 g/kg of fat from safflower oil and/or high-oleate safflower oil blended with n-3 PUFAs (DHASCO oil) as a source of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Fatty acid analyses confirmed that the dietary ratio of 5:1 significantly elevated the amount of DHA in the periosteum, marrow and cortical and trabecular bones of the femur. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measurements for femur and tibia bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density showed that the DHA-rich diets (HP5 and LP5) resulted in a significantly lower bone loss among the OVX rats at 12 weeks. Rats fed the LP diets displayed the lowest overall serum concentrations of the bone resorption biomarkers pyridinoline (Pyd) and deoxypyridinoline, whereas the bone formation marker osteocalcin was lowest in the HP groups. Regardless of the dietary PUFA content, DHA in the 5:1 diets (HP5 and LP5) preserved rat femur BMC in the absence of estrogen. This study indicates that the dietary ratio of n-6/n-3 PUFAs (LP5 and HP5) and bone tissue concentration of total long-chain n-3 PUFAs (DHA) minimize femur bone loss as evidenced by a higher BMC in OVX rats. These findings show that dietary DHA lowers the ratio of 18:2n-6 (linoleic acid)/n-3 in bone compartments and that this ratio in tissue correlates with reduced Pyd but higher bone alkaline phosphatase activity and BMC values that favor bone conservation in OVX rats.

The effect of conjugated linoleic acid on the viability and metabolism of human osteoblast-like cells

Studies in experimental animals and murine osteoblast cells in culture have produced conflicting findings on the effect of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on bone formation. The present study investigated the influence of CLA on viability and metabolism of two human osteoblast-like cell lines (SaOS2 and MG63). Both cell lines were exposed to increasing concentrations (0-50 microM) of CLA either as pure cis (c) 9: trans (t) 11 and t10:c12 CLA isomers or a blend of isomers, or linoleic acid (C18:2). Cell cytotoxicity and degree of DNA fragmentation were unaffected by any fatty acid treatment. PGE2 biosynthesis by both cell lines was variably reduced by CLA isomer blend and t10:c12 CLA, but not c9:t11 CLA. Alkaline phosphatase activity was variably increased by all CLA treatments. These results suggest a lack of cytotoxic effect of CLA on human osteoblast-like cells and tentatively suggest a possible beneficial effect on bone formation in humans.

Normal matrix mineralization induced by strontium ranelate in MC3T3-E1 osteogenic cells

There is growing evidence that strontium ranelate (SR; S12911-2, PROTELOS; Institut de Recherches Internationales Servier, Courbevoie, France), a compound containing 2 atoms of stable strontium (Sr), influences bone cells and bone metabolism in vitro and in vivo. We previously reported that SR increases bone mass in rats and mice by stimulating bone formation and inhibiting bone resorption. We also showed that short-term treatment with SR enhances osteoblastic cell recruitment and function in short-term rat calvaria cultures. Because Sr incorporates into the bone matrix, it was of interest to determine whether SR may affect matrix mineralization in long-term culture. To this goal, osteogenic mouse calvaria-derived MC3T3-E1 osteoblastic cells were cultured for up to 14 days in the presence of ascorbic acid and phosphate to induce matrix formation and mineralization. Matrix formation was determined by incorporation of tritiated proline during collagen synthesis. Matrix mineralization was quantified by measuring the number and surface of mineralized nodules using a digital image analyzer. In this model, 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D (1 nmol/L) used as internal control, increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, an early osteoblast marker, on days 4, 10, and 14 of culture. Treatment with SR (1 mmol/L Sr(2+)) increased ALP activity at days 4 and 14 of culture. SR also increased collagen synthesis at days 4 and 10 of culture. In contrast, 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D (1 nmol/L) inhibited collagen synthesis at 4 to 14 days of culture. Long-term treatment with SR (0.1 to 1 mmol/L Sr(2+)) dose dependently increased Sr concentration into the calcified nodules, but did not alter matrix mineralization in long-term culture, as shown by the ratio of the surface of mineralized nodules to the number of mineralized nodules on day 14 of culture. These results show that long-term treatment with SR increases collagenous matrix formation by MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts without inducing deleterious effect on matrix mineralization.

Subchondral bone in osteoarthritis: a biologic link with articular cartilage leading to abnormal remodeling

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review deals with new findings highlighting the concept of cross-talk between subchondral bone tissue and articular cartilage that may be crucial for the initiation and/or progression of osteoarthritis. In this review, new factors either produced by subchondral bone tissue or modifying osteoblast metabolism, yet implicated in osteoarthritis, are discussed.

RECENT FINDINGS

The development of cartilage degeneration is concomitant with subchondral bone thickness in osteoarthritis, whereas it is related to higher subchondral bone activity and dysregulation in the synthesis of bone proteins. As an immediate consequence, homotrimers of type 1 collagen are formed that could lead to undermineralization of this tissue. This dysregulation also leads to abnormal production of different factors by osteoblasts such as prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and growth factors. Because microcracks or neovascularization provide a link between the subchondral bone tissue and articular cartilage, these factors could contribute to the abnormal remodeling of osteoarthritic cartilage.

SUMMARY

These findings have an immediate implication for research because new tools need to be developed to study the subchondral bone-cartilage functional unit. Moreover, it could lead to a possible cure for osteoarthritis because this pathology should be considered both a bone and cartilage disease.

Modulatory effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on osteoblast function and bone metabolism

Recent investigations indicate that the type and amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) influence bone formation in animal models and osteoblastic cell functions in culture. In growing rats, supplementing the diet with omega-3 PUFA results in greater bone formation rates and moderates ex vivo prostaglandin E(2) production in bone organ cultures. A protective effect of omega-3 PUFA on minimizing bone mineral loss in ovariectomized rats has also been reported. The actions of omega-3 fatty acids on bone formation appear to be linked to altering osteoblast functions. Herein we describe experiments with MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells that support findings in vivo where omega-3 PUFA modulated COX-2 protein expression, reduced prostaglandin E(2) production, and increased alkaline phosphatase activity. Other studies indicate that the dietary source of PUFA may affect protein expression of Cbfa1 and nodule formation in fetal rat calvarial cells.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids. Is there a role in postmenopausal osteoporosis prevention?

OBJECTIVE

To review the effect of a diet supplemented with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) on prevention or treatment of osteoporosis.

METHODS

MEDLINE (1966-April 2001), Allied Complementary Medicine (1985-2001), Cochrane Library and Database of Systematic Reviews (1st Quarter 2001) was searched. Five reviews and no systematic reviews were found on this topic in the Cochrane Library. Eleven relevant in-vivo studies were identified on the effect of these compounds on bone. Eight were animal studies and three were randomised control trials (RCT) in human.

RESULTS

There are two classes of PUFA designated as n-3 and n-6 with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These two different types of PUFA differently influence prostaglandin formation and hence modulate bone metabolism differently. These are several in vitro and animal data suggesting that diet with a low n-6/n-3 ratio may have beneficial effects on bone mineral density. Only three, short-term, small studies have been performed in human so far. Two studies, one performed with bone markers and one with bone density showed a positive effect of PUFA on bone. While a third study showed no effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary, data have suggested that a diet with a low n-6/n-3 ratio may have beneficial effects on bone mineral density. Further studies are, however, required to fully assess the dose and type of PUFA to be used for optimum bone effects. This may be useful particularly for the prevention of disease in the elderly, since a diet rich in n-3 PUFA has been shown to have additional benefit on the cardiovascular, central nervous system and joints.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and skeletal health

This minireview on skeletal biology describes the actions of prostaglandins and cytokines involved in the local regulation of bone metabolism, it documents the role of lipids in bone biology, and it presents relationships between fatty acids and other factors that impact skeletal metabolism. The data presented herein show consistent and reproducible beneficial effects of omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids on bone metabolism and bone/joint diseases. Polyunsaturated fatty acids modulate eicosanoid biosynthesis in numerous tissues and cell types, alter signal transduction, and influence gene expression. These effects have not been explored in the skeletal system. Future research on n-3 fatty acids in bone biology should focus on the following two aspects. First, the further elucidation of how n-3 fatty acids alter biochemical and molecular processes involved in bone modeling and bone cell differentiation, and second, the evaluation of the potential pharmaceutical applications of these nutraceutical fatty acids in maintaining bone mineral status and controlling inflammatory bone/joint diseases.

Dietary ratio of (n-6)/(n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids alters the fatty acid composition of bone compartments and biomarkers of bone formation in rats

The effects of dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) on ex vivo bone prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) production and bone formation rate were evaluated in rats. Weanling male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed AIN-93G diet containing 70 g/kg of added fat for 42 d. The dietary lipid treatments were formulated with safflower oil and menhaden oil to provide the following ratios of (n-6)/(n-3) fatty acids: 23.8 (SMI), 9.8 (SMII), 2.6 (SMIII), and 1.2 (SMIV). Ex vivo PGE(2) production in liver homogenates and bone organ cultures (right femur and tibia) were significantly lower in rats fed diets with a lower dietary ratio of (n-6)/(n-3) fatty acids than in those fed diets with a higher dietary ratio. Regression analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between bone PGE(2) and the ratio of arachidonic acid (AA)/eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), but significant negative correlations between bone formation rate and either the ratio of AA/EPA or PGE(2) in bone. Activities of serum alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes, including the bone-specific isoenzyme (BALP), were greater in rats fed a diet high in (n-3) or a low ratio of (n-6)/(n-3), further supporting the positive action of (n-3) fatty acids on bone formation. These results demonstrated that the dietary ratio of (n-6)/(n-3) modulates bone PGE(2) production and the activity of serum BALP in growing rats.

Conjugated linoleic acid and bone biology

Osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and inflammatory joint disease afflict millions of people worldwide. Inflammatory cytokines inhibit chondrocyte proliferation and induce cartilage degradation for which part of the response is mediated by PGE2. Excess production of PGE2 is linked to osteoporosis and arthritis and is associated with bone and proteoglycan loss. PGE2 also influences the IGF-I/IGFBP axis to facilitate bone and cartilage formation. Recent investigations with growing rats given butter fat and supplements of CLA demonstrated an increased rate of bone formation and reduced ex vivo bone PGE2 production, respectively. Furthermore, the supplements of CLA isomers resulted in their enrichment in lipids of various bone compartments of animals. The effects of CLA on bone biology in rats (IGF action and cytokines) appear to be dependent on the level of n-6 and n-3 fatty acids in the diet; however, these studies generally showed that CLA decreased ex vivo bone PGE2 production and in osteoblast-like cultures. Anti-inflammatory diets, including nutraceutical applications of CLA, may be beneficial in moderating cyclooygenase 2 (COX-2) activity or expression (influencing PGE2 biosynthesis) and might help to reduce rheumatoid arthritis (secondary osteoporosis). This review summarizes findings of CLA on bone modeling in rats and effects on cellular functions of osteoblasts and chondrocytes. These experiments indicate that CLA isomers possess anti-inflammatory activity in bone by moderating prostanoid formation.

Long-term effects of prostaglandin E2 on the mineralization of a clonal osteoblastic cell line (MC3T3-E1)

Prostaglandin (PG) E2 is thought to be a mediator of the effect of mechanical stress on bone formation, but its effects on osteoblasts have not yet been fully described. Here, the effects of the continuous application of PGE2 and indomethacin, an inhibitor of prostaglandin G/H synthase (cyclo-oxygenase), on the proliferation, differentiation and mineralization of a clonal osteoblastic cell line, MC3T3-E1, were investigated. The cells were cultured in media with either a high (1 microg/ml) or a low (1 ng/ml) concentration of PGE2, with indomethacin (1 microg/ml) and, as a control, with neither agent. The effects of PGE2 and indomethacin were assessed quantitatively. Indomethacin and a high concentration of PGE2 increased the total protein compared to the control and low-PGE2 cultures. 7 days after confluence, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity within the cells and extracellular matrices increased. This increase was highest with indomethacin and lowest with a high concentration of PGE2. ALP activity also increased in the medium, but only 21 days after confluence; the effects of the agents were similar to those on the cells and matrices. The accumulation of calcium, inorganic phosphate and hydroxyproline was highest with indomethacin. PGE2 production was at its maximum when the cells were at confluence and was inhibited by indomethacin. Specific [3H]PGE2 binding to the microsomal fraction of the cell was also measured to examine the expression of the PGE2 receptor. The amount of [3H]PGE2 binding per mg of protein was highest at confluence, then decreased and again increased in the mineralizing stage. These results suggest that indomethacin increases ALP activity and the accumulation of mineralized tissue in MC3T3-E1 cells, presumably by inhibiting the production of PGE2. PGE2 could signal the suppression of mineralization as early as confluence.

Ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene particles have direct effects on proliferation, differentiation, and local factor production of MG63 osteoblast-like cells

Small particles of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene stimulate formation of foreign-body granulomas and bone resorption. Bone formation may also be affected by wear debris. To determine if wear debris directly affects osteoblasts, we characterized a commercial preparation of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (GUR4150) particles and examined their effect on MG63 osteoblast-like cells. In aliquots of the culture medium containing ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene, 79% of the particles were less than 1 microm in diameter, indicating that the cells were exposed to particles of less than 1 microm. MG63 cell response to the particles was measured by assaying cell number, [3H]thymidine incorporation, alkaline phosphatase specific activity, osteocalcin production, [35S]sulfate incorporation, and production of prostaglandin E2 and transforming growth factor-beta. Cell number and [3H]thymidine incorporation were increased in a dose-dependent manner. Alkaline phosphatase specific activity, a marker of cell differentiation for the cultures, was significantly decreased, but osteocalcin production was not affected. [35S]sulfate incorporation, a measure of extracellular matrix production, was reduced. Prostaglandin E2 release was increased, but transforming growth factor-beta production was decreased in a dose-dependent manner. This shows that ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene particles affect MG63 proliferation, differentiation, extracellular matrix synthesis, and local factor production. These effects were direct and dose dependent. The findings suggest that ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene wear debris particles with an average size of approximately 1 microm may inhibit bone formation by inhibiting cell differentiation and reducing transforming growth factor-beta production and matrix synthesis. In addition, increases in prostaglandin E2 production may not only affect osteoblasts by an autocrine pathway but may also stimulate the proliferation and activation of cells in the monocytic lineage. These changes favor decreased bone formation and increased bone resorption as occur in osteolysis.

Interaction between nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase pathways in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells

Interleukin 1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. These proinflammatory cytokines induce both cyclooxygenase (COX) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) with the release of prostaglandin (PG) and NO, respectively. The present study was undertaken to examine the interaction between COX and NOS pathways and their role in the regulation of osteoblastic function in MC3T3-E1 cells. Addition of IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha induced a marked increase in the production of both NO and PGE2. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that the increase in NO production was preceded by the expression of inducible NOS mRNA. The temporal profile of PGE2 production revealed a biphasic pattern: the first small peak at 3 h was caused by de novo synthesis of PGE2 through inducible COX (COX-2) mRNA, while the subsequent progressive accumulation of PGE2 was mediated through the activation of COX pathway by NO since (1) aminoguanidine (AG), a selective inhibitor of inducible NOS, significantly suppressed the PGE2 production by IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha, (2) NOC-18, an NO donor, reversed this suppression, and (3) NOC-18 increased PGE2 production by itself. The increase in NO production in response to IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha was further stimulated by aspirin and inhibited by exogenous addition of PGE2, suggesting that PGE2 produced by the cytokines, in turn, negatively modulates NO production. IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha inhibited alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, which was significantly reversed by AG. NOC-18 not only suppressed ALP activity by itself but also blocked the effect of AG, suggesting the role of NO in the inhibition of ALP activity. PGE2 decreased ALP activity, and the inhibitory effect of NOC-18 was attenuated in the presence of aspirin, suggesting the involvement of PGE2 in the negative modulation of ALP activity by NO. These results suggest that NO produced in response to proinflammatory cytokines participates in the modulation of ALP activity via the activation of COX pathway. The interaction between NO and the COX pathways may play an important role in the regulation of osteoblastic functions under physiologic as well as pathologic conditions.

Prostaglandin E2 measurements: their value in the early diagnosis of heterotopic ossification in spinal cord injury patients

OBJECTIVE

To look for a possible relation between the occurrence of heterotopic ossification (HO) and the modifications of the 24-hour prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) urinary excretion.

DESIGN

A 5-year prospective study to determine the 24-hour urinary excretion of PGE2 by radioimmunoassay with specific antisera not cross-reacting with TXA2, TXB2, 15-keto-PGE2 alpha, PGI2, 6-keto-PGF1 alpha.

SETTING

The laboratory of a division of endocrinology and diabetology of a university hospital.

PATIENTS

Of 262 acute spinal cord injury patients screened, 44 were eligible for the study.

INTERVENTIONS

Serial diagnostic quantitative bone scannings with technetium 99m Tc methylene diphosphate (99mTc-MDP) and therapeutic assessment of radiotherapy and indomethacin.

MEAN OUTCOME MEASURE

Hypothetical increase of PGE2 before and during HO formation.

RESULTS

Of 44 patients, 8 developed an HO (18.8%) with concomitant marked increase of the PGE2 excretion for as long as the HO had not reached maturity. The results of the radiotherapy were inconclusive. Indomethacin was shown to be efficacious in holding back or slowing down the HO evolution.

CONCLUSIONS

Measurement of the 24-hour PGE2 urinary excretion appears to be a valuable indicator in the early diagnosis of HO. Indomethacin should be considered as an alternative to other existing therapies.

Effects of bisphosphonates on alkaline phosphatase activity, mineralization, and prostaglandin E2 synthesis in the clonal osteoblast-like cell line MC3T3-E1

The effects of 3 bisphosphonates, AHBuBP, AHPrBP, and Cl2MBP on cell growth, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, mineralization, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) synthesis in the clonal osteoblast-like cell line MC3T3-E1 were studied. These bisphosphonates had essentially similar effects on growth and the osteoblastic functions of the cells, i.e., they had no inhibitory effects on cell growth except at higher concentrations, they increased ALP activity, and inhibited PGE2 production. In the presence of AHBuBP, ALP activity was higher than that in the control after day 6 of culture. Lower concentrations of AHBuBP slightly facilitated mineralization by the cells. It is probable that bisphosphonates enhance the functions of osteoblasts in certain concentration and that the inhibition of endogenous PGE2 production may be involved in the mechanism of action of bisphosphonates.

Dietary (n-3) and (n-6) polyunsaturates and acetylsalicylic acid alter ex vivo PGE2 biosynthesis, tissue IGF-I levels, and bone morphometry in chicks

This study examined the effects of dietary (n-6) and (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) on bone ash content, morphometry, fatty acid composition, ex vivo PGE2 biosynthesis, tissue IGF-I concentration, and serum alkaline phosphatase (ALPase) activity in chicks. Newly hatched chicks were fed a semipurified diet containing soybean oil (S) or menhaden oil / safflower oil (M) at 90 g/kg. At 4 days of age, chicks were divided into four equal treatment groups receiving 0 mg [symbol: see text] or 500 mg [symbol: see text] of ASA/kg of diet: S[symbol: see text]ASA, M[symbol: see text]ASA, S[symbol: see text]ASA, and M[symbol: see text]ASA. Lipid and ASA treatments did not affect bone length, bone ash, or bone mineral content in chicks. Chicks fed M had increased fractional labeled trabecular surface and tissue level bone formation rates, independent of ASA treatment, compared with those given S. A significant fat x ASA interaction effect was found for trabecular bone volume, thickness, separation, and number. Chicks fed S had higher 20:4(n-6) but lower 20:5(n-3) concentrations in liver and bone compared with those given M. Ex vivo PGE2 biosynthesis was higher in liver homogenates and bone organ cultures of chicks fed S compared with the values for those given M at 17 days. ASA treatment decreased ex vivo PGE2 production in liver homogenates and bone organ cultures of chicks, independent of the dietary lipids. Chicks fed ASA had a lower concentration of IGF-I in tibiotarsal bone compared with those not given ASA at 19 days. Serum ALPase activity was higher in chicks given M compared with those fed S, but the values were reversed with ASA feeding. This study demonstrated that both dietary fat and ASA modulated bone PGE2 biosynthesis, and that (n-3) PUFA and fat x ASA interactions altered bone morphometry.