Molecular pathways mediating mechanical signaling in bone

EnduroBone: A 3D printed bioreactor for extended bone tissue culture

Studies of the effects of external stimuli on bone tissue, disease transmission mechanisms, and potential medication discoveries benefit from long-term tissue viability ex vivo. By simulating the in-vivo environment, bioreactors are essential for studying bone cellular activity throughout biological processes. We present the development of an automated 3D-printed bioreactor EnduroBone designed to sustain the ex-vivo viability of 10 mm diameter cancellous bone cores for an extended period. The device is supplied with two critical parameters for maintaining bone tissue viability: closed-loop continuous flow perfusion of 1 mL/min for nutrient diffusion and waste removal and direct mechanical stimulation with cyclic compression at 13.2 RPM (revolutions per minute) to promote cell viability which can lead to improved tissue stability during ex vivo culturing. The bioreactor addresses several limitations of existing systems and provides a versatile open-source platform for bone cancer research, orthopedic device testing, and other related applications. To validate the bioreactor, fresh swine samples were cultured ex-vivo, and their cell viability was determined to be maintained for up to 28 days. Periodic cell viability assessment through live/dead cell staining and confocal imaging at the start (0 days) and at several time points throughout the culture period (7, 14, 21, and 28 days) was used to demonstrate EnduroBone effectiveness in sustaining bone cell health for the extended period tested.

A mechanobiological model of bone metastasis reveals that mechanical stimulation inhibits the pro-osteolytic effects of breast cancer cells

Bone is highly susceptible to cancer metastasis, and both tumor and bone cells enable tumor invasion through a "vicious cycle" of biochemical signaling. Tumor metastasis into bone also alters biophysical cues to both tumor and bone cells, which are highly sensitive to their mechanical environment. However, the mechanobiological feedback between these cells that perpetuate this cycle has not been studied. Here, we develop highly advanced in vitro and computational models to provide an advanced understanding of how tumor growth is regulated by the synergistic influence of tumor-bone cell signaling and mechanobiological cues. In particular, we develop a multicellular healthy and metastatic bone model that can account for physiological mechanical signals within a custom bioreactor. These models successfully recapitulated mineralization, mechanobiological responses, osteolysis, and metastatic activity. Ultimately, we demonstrate that mechanical stimulus provided protective effects against tumor-induced osteolysis, confirming the importance of mechanobiological factors in bone metastasis development.

Can self-powered piezoelectric materials be used to treat disc degeneration by means of electrical stimulation?

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) due to multiple causes is one of the major causes of low back pain (LBP). A variety of traditional treatments and biologic therapies are currently used to delay or even reverse IDD; however, these treatments still have some limitations. Finding safer and more effective treatments is urgent for LBP patients. With increasing reports it has been found that the intervertebral disc (IVD) can convert pressure loads from the spine into electrical stimulation in a variety of ways, and that this electrical stimulation is of great importance in modulating cell behavior, the immune microenvironment and promoting tissue repair. However, when intervertebral disc degeneration occurs, the normal structures within the IVD are destroyed. This eventually leads to a weakening or loss of self-powered. Currently various piezoelectric materials with unique crystal structures can mimic the piezoelectric effect of normal tissues. Based on this, tissue-engineered scaffolds prepared using piezoelectric materials have been widely used for regenerative repair of various types of tissues, however, there are no reports of their use for the treatment of IDD. For this reason, we propose to utilize tissue-engineered scaffolds prepared from piezoelectric biomaterials with excellent biocompatibility and self-powered properties to be implanted into degenerated IVD to help restore cell type and number, restore extracellular matrix, and modulate immune responses. It provides a feasible and novel therapeutic approach for the clinical treatment of IDD.

Sequestration and Involucrum: Understanding Bone Necrosis and Revascularization in Pediatric Orthopedics

Sequestration, a condition where a section of bone becomes necrotic due to a loss of vascularity or thrombosis, can be a challenging complication of osteomyelitis. This review explores the pathophysiology of sequestration, highlighting the role of the periosteum in forming involucrum and creeping substitution which facilitate revascularization and bone formation. The authors also discuss the induced membrane technique, a two-stage surgical procedure for cases of failed healing of sequestration. Future directions include the potential use of prophylactic anticoagulation and novel drugs targeting immunocoagulopathy, as well as the development of advanced imaging techniques and single-stage surgical procedures.

Brain regulates weight bearing bone through PGE2 skeletal interoception: implication of ankle osteoarthritis and pain

Bone is a mechanosensitive tissue and undergoes constant remodeling to adapt to the mechanical loading environment. However, it is unclear whether the signals of bone cells in response to mechanical stress are processed and interpreted in the brain. In this study, we found that the hypothalamus of the brain regulates bone remodeling and structure by perceiving bone prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) concentration in response to mechanical loading. Bone PGE2 levels are in proportion to their weight bearing. When weight bearing changes in the tail-suspension mice, the PGE2 concentrations in bones change in line with their weight bearing changes. Deletion of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) in the osteoblast lineage cells or knockout of receptor 4 (EP4) in sensory nerve blunts bone formation in response to mechanical loading. Moreover, knockout of TrkA in sensory nerve also significantly reduces mechanical load-induced bone formation. Moreover, mechanical loading induces cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC) to inhibit sympathetic tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) for osteogenesis. Finally, we show that elevated PGE2 is associated with ankle osteoarthritis (AOA) and pain. Together, our data demonstrate that in response to mechanical loading, skeletal interoception occurs in the form of hypothalamic processing of PGE2-driven peripheral signaling to maintain physiologic bone homeostasis, while chronically elevated PGE2 can be sensed as pain during AOA and implication of potential treatment.

Multifunctional gold nanoparticles for osteoporosis: synthesis, mechanism and therapeutic applications

Osteoporosis is currently the most prevalent bone disorder worldwide and is characterized by low bone mineral density and an overall increased risk of fractures. To treat osteoporosis, a range of drugs targeting bone homeostasis have emerged in clinical practice, including anti-osteoclast agents such as bisphosphonates and denosumab, bone formation stimulating agents such as teriparatide, and selective oestrogen receptor modulators. However, traditional clinical medicine still faces challenges related to side effects and high costs of these types of treatments. Nanomaterials (particularly gold nanoparticles [AuNPs]), which have unique optical properties and excellent biocompatibility, have gained attention in the field of osteoporosis research. AuNPs have been found to promote osteoblast differentiation, inhibit osteoclast formation, and block the differentiation of adipose-derived stem cells, which thus is believed to be a novel and promising candidate for osteoporosis treatment. This review summarizes the advances and drawbacks of AuNPs in their synthesis and the mechanisms in bone formation and resorption in vitro and in vivo, with a focus on their size, shape, and chemical composition as relevant parameters for the treatment of osteoporosis. Additionally, several important and promising directions for future studies are also discussed, which is of great significance for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

Fluid flow-induced modulation of viability and osteodifferentiation of periodontal ligament stem cell spheroids-on-chip

Developing physiologically relevant in vitro models for studying periodontitis is crucial for understanding its pathogenesis and developing effective therapeutic strategies. In this study, we aimed to integrate the spheroid culture of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) within a spheroid-on-chip microfluidic perfusion platform and to investigate the influence of interstitial fluid flow on morphogenesis, cellular viability, and osteogenic differentiation of PDLSC spheroids. PDLSC spheroids were seeded onto the spheroid-on-chip microfluidic device and cultured under static and flow conditions. Computational analysis demonstrated the translation of fluid flow rates of 1.2 μl min-1 (low-flow) and 7.2 μl min-1 (high-flow) to maximum fluid shear stress of 59 μPa and 360 μPa for low and high-flow conditions, respectively. The spheroid-on-chip microfluidic perfusion platform allowed for modulation of flow conditions leading to larger PDLSC spheroids with improved cellular viability under flow compared to static conditions. Modulation of fluid flow enhanced the osteodifferentiation potential of PDLSC spheroids, demonstrated by significantly enhanced alizarin red staining and alkaline phosphatase expression. Additionally, flow conditions, especially high-flow conditions, exhibited extensive calcium staining across both peripheral and central regions of the spheroids, in contrast to the predominantly peripheral staining observed under static conditions. These findings highlight the importance of fluid flow in shaping the morphological and functional properties of PDLSC spheroids. This work paves the way for future investigations exploring the interactions between PDLSC spheroids, microbial pathogens, and biomaterials within a controlled fluidic environment, offering insights for the development of innovative periodontal therapies, tissue engineering strategies, and regenerative approaches.

The Mechanotransduction Signaling Pathways in the Regulation of Osteogenesis

Bones are constantly exposed to mechanical forces from both muscles and Earth's gravity to maintain bone homeostasis by stimulating bone formation. Mechanotransduction transforms external mechanical signals such as force, fluid flow shear, and gravity into intracellular responses to achieve force adaptation. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms on the conversion from mechanical signals into bone formation has not been completely defined yet. In the present review, we provide a comprehensive and systematic description of the mechanotransduction signaling pathways induced by mechanical stimuli during osteogenesis and address the different layers of interconnections between different signaling pathways. Further exploration of mechanotransduction would benefit patients with osteoporosis, including the aging population and postmenopausal women.

Mechanical loading-induced change of bone homeostasis is mediated by PGE2-driven hypothalamic interoception

Bone is a mechanosensitive tissue and undergoes constant remodeling to adapt to the mechanical loading environment. However, it is unclear whether the signals of bone cells in response to mechanical stress are processed and interpreted in the brain. In this study, we found that the hypothalamus of the brain regulates bone remodeling and structure by perceiving bone PGE2 concentration in response to mechanical loading. Bone PGE2 levels are in proportion to their weight bearing. When weight bearing changes in the tail-suspension mice, the PGE2 concentrations in bones change in line with their weight bearing changes. Deletion of Cox2 or Pge2 in the osteoblast lineage cells or knockout Ep4 in sensory nerve blunts bone formation in response to mechanical loading. And sensory denervation also significantly reduces mechanical load-induced bone formation. Moreover, mechanical loading induces CREB phosphorylation in the hypothalamic ARC region to inhibit sympathetic TH expression in the PVN for osteogenesis. Finally, we show that elevated PGE2 is associated with ankle osteoarthritis (AOA) and pain. Together, our data demonstrate that in response to mechanical loading, skeletal interoception occurs in the form of hypothalamic processing of PGE2-driven peripheral signaling to maintain physiologic bone homeostasis, while chronically elevated PGE2 can be sensed as pain during AOA and implication of potential treatment.

Discovery of multipotent progenitor cells from human induced membrane: Equivalent to periosteum-derived stem cells in bone regeneration

Background

The periosteum stem cells (PSCs) plays a critical role in bone regeneration and defect reconstruction. Insertion of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) bone cement can form an induced membrane(IM) and showed promising strategy for bone defect reconstruction, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Our study sought to determine whether IM-derived cells(IMDCs) versus PSCs have similar characteristics in bone regeneration.

Methods

IM and periosteum were harvested from ten bone defect patients treated with PMMA, the IMDCs and PSCs were isolated respectively. Morphological, functional and molecular evaluation was performed and matched for comparison.

Results

Both progenitor-like IMDCs and PSCs were successfully isolated. In vitro, we found IMDCs were similar to PSCs in morphology, colony forming capacity and expression of surface marker(CD90+, CD73+, CD105+, CD34-/CD45-). Meanwhile, these IMSCs displayed multipotency with chondrogenic, adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation, but differed in some IMSCs(3/10) population showing relatively poor osteogenic differentiation. The molecular profiles suggests that cell cycle and DNA replication signaling pathways were associated with these varying osteogenic potential. In vivo, we established a cell-based tissue-engineered bone by seeding IMDSs/PSCs to demineralized bone matrix (DBM) scaffold and demonstrated both IMDSs and PSCs enhanced bone regeneration in SCID mice bone defect model compared with DBM alone.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrated IM containing multipotent progenitor cells similar to that periosteum promoting bone regeneration, and indicated the existence of multiple subsets in osteogenic differentiation. Overall, the study provided a cellular and molecular insights in understanding the successful or failed outcome of bone defect healing.The translational potential of this article: This study confirmed IMDCs and PSCs share similar regeneration capacity and inform a translation potential of that cellular therapy applying IMDCs in bone defect repair.

Effect of Uniaxial Compression Frequency on Osteogenic Cell Responses in Dynamic 3D Cultures

The application of mechanical stimulation on bone tissue engineering constructs aims to mimic the native dynamic nature of bone. Although many attempts have been made to evaluate the effect of applied mechanical stimuli on osteogenic differentiation, the conditions that govern this process have not yet been fully explored. In this study, pre-osteoblastic cells were seeded on PLLA/PCL/PHBV (90/5/5 wt.%) polymeric blend scaffolds. The constructs were subjected every day to cyclic uniaxial compression for 40 min at a displacement of 400 μm, using three frequency values, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 Hz, for up to 21 days, and their osteogenic response was compared to that of static cultures. Finite element simulation was performed to validate the scaffold design and the loading direction, and to assure that cells inside the scaffolds would be subjected to significant levels of strain during stimulation. None of the applied loading conditions negatively affected the cell viability. The alkaline phosphatase activity data indicated significantly higher values at all dynamic conditions compared to the static ones at day 7, with the highest response being observed at 0.5 Hz. Collagen and calcium production were significantly increased compared to static controls. These results indicate that all of the examined frequencies substantially promoted the osteogenic capacity.

SAXS imaging reveals optimized osseointegration properties of bioengineered oriented 3D-PLGA/aCaP scaffolds in a critical size bone defect model

Healing large bone defects remains challenging in orthopedic surgery and is often associated with poor outcomes and complications. A major issue with bioengineered constructs is achieving a continuous interface between host bone and graft to enhance biological processes and mechanical stability. In this study, we have developed a new bioengineering strategy to produce oriented biocompatible 3D PLGA/aCaP nanocomposites with enhanced osseointegration. Decellularized scaffolds -containing only extracellular matrix- or scaffolds seeded with adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells were tested in a mouse model for critical size bone defects. In parallel to micro-CT analysis, SAXS tensor tomography and 2D scanning SAXS were employed to determine the 3D arrangement and nanostructure within the critical-sized bone. Both newly developed scaffold types, seeded with cells or decellularized, showed high osseointegration, higher bone quality, increased alignment of collagen fibers and optimal alignment and size of hydroxyapatite minerals.

Molecular Physiology of TRPV Channels: Controversies and Future Challenges

The ability to detect stimuli from the environment plays a pivotal role in our survival. The molecules that allow the detection of such signals include ion channels, which are proteins expressed in different cells and organs. Among these ion channels, the transient receptor potential (TRP) family responds to the presence of diverse chemicals, temperature, and osmotic changes, among others. This family of ion channels includes the TRPV or vanilloid subfamily whose members serve several physiological functions. Although these proteins have been studied intensively for the last two decades, owing to their structural and functional complexities, a number of controversies regarding their function still remain. Here, we discuss some salient features of their regulation in light of these controversies and outline some of the efforts pushing the field forward.

Bone Healing Gone Wrong: Pathological Fracture Healing and Non-Unions-Overview of Basic and Clinical Aspects and Systematic Review of Risk Factors

Bone healing is a multifarious process involving mesenchymal stem cells, osteoprogenitor cells, macrophages, osteoblasts and -clasts, and chondrocytes to restore the osseous tissue. Particularly in long bones including the tibia, clavicle, humerus and femur, this process fails in 2-10% of all fractures, with devastating effects for the patient and the healthcare system. Underlying reasons for this failure are manifold, from lack of biomechanical stability to impaired biological host conditions and wound-immanent intricacies. In this review, we describe the cellular components involved in impaired bone healing and how they interfere with the delicately orchestrated processes of bone repair and formation. We subsequently outline and weigh the risk factors for the development of non-unions that have been established in the literature. Therapeutic prospects are illustrated and put into clinical perspective, before the applicability of biomarkers is finally discussed.

Addition of a Vascular Bundle Accelerates Bone Union in Femoral Bone Defects

BACKGROUND

 The Masquelet method has become increasingly popular for the treatment of bone defects in recent years. In this method, an induced membrane (IM) with abundant blood circulation, stem cells, and osteogenesis-promoting factors is formed by implanting bone cement during the first surgery. This IM stimulates bone formation in the bone defect after implantation of the bone graft during the second surgery. However, the Masquelet method requires two surgeries and thus a longer treatment period. In the present study, we investigated whether bone defects could be reconstructed in a single surgery by introducing a vascular bundle into the bone defect as an alternative to the IM, in addition to bone grafting.

METHODS

 Thirty-six 12-week-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were used. After creating a 5-mm long bone defect in the femur, a mixture of autologous and artificial bone was grafted into the defect, and a saphenous arteriovenous vascular bundle was introduced. The animals were divided into three groups: the control group (bone defect only), the BG group (bone grafting only), and the BG + V group (bone grafting + vascular bundle introduction). After surgery, radiological and histological evaluations were performed to assess osteogenesis and angiogenesis in bone defects.

RESULTS

 In the BG + V group, significant bone formation was observed in the bone defect on radiological and histological evaluations, and the amount of bone formation was significantly higher than that in the other two groups. Furthermore, cortical bone continuity was observed in many specimens in the BG + V group. On histological evaluation, the number of blood vessels was also significantly higher in the BG + V group than in the other two groups.

CONCLUSION

 Our results suggest that the introduction of a vascular bundle in addition to bone grafting can promote bone formation in bone defects and allow for complete bone defect reconstruction in a single surgery.

Up-to-date progress in bioprinting of bone tissue

The major apparatuses used for three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting include extrusion-based, droplet-based, and laser-based bioprinting. Numerous studies have been proposed to fabricate bioactive 3D bone tissues using different bioprinting techniques. In addition to the development of bioinks and assessment of their printability for corresponding bioprinting processes, in vitro and in vivo success of the bioprinted constructs, such as their mechanical properties, cell viability, differentiation capability, immune responses, and osseointegration, have been explored. In this review, several major considerations, challenges, and potential strategies for bone bioprinting have been deliberated, including bioprinting apparatus, biomaterials, structure design of vascularized bone constructs, cell source, differentiation factors, mechanical properties and reinforcement, hypoxic environment, and dynamic culture. In addition, up-to-date progress in bone bioprinting is summarized in detail, which uncovers the immense potential of bioprinting in re-establishing the 3D dynamic microenvironment of the native bone. This review aims to assist the researchers to gain insights into the reconstruction of clinically relevant bone tissues with appropriate mechanical properties and precisely regulated biological behaviors.

The effects of compression load to the trunk on lipid metabolism in an inactive phase

The effects of compression load to a specific body part, e.g. leg, arm, or trunk, evoke many functions and are applied in various fields including clinical medicine, sports, and general health care. Nevertheless, little is known about the functional mechanism of compression load, especially regarding its effects on metabolic function. We investigated the effects of compression load to the trunk on the metabolism. We designed adjustable compression clothes for mice and attached them to ten-week-old C57BL/6N male mice in a controlled environment. The mice were divided into compression and no-compression groups, the latter only wearing the clothes without added compression. The evoked metabolic changes were evaluated using indirect calorimetry and transcriptomics with liver tissue to investigate the mechanism of the metabolic changes induced by the compression load. The results indicated decreases in body weight gain, food intake, and respiratory exchange ratio in the compression group compared to the no-compression group, but these effects were limited in the “light period” which was an inactive phase for mice. As a result of the transcriptome analysis after eight hours of compression load to the trunk, several DEGs, e.g., Cpt1A, Hmgcr, were classified into functional categories relating to carbohydrate metabolism, lipid metabolism, or immune response. Lipid metabolism impacts included suppression of fatty acid synthesis and activation of lipolysis and cholesterol synthesis in the compression group. Taken together, our results showed that activation of lipid metabolism processes in an inactive phase was induced by the compression load to the trunk.

Roles of the RANKL-RANK Axis in Immunity-Implications for Pathogenesis and Treatment of Bone Metastasis

A substantial amount patients with cancer will develop bone metastases, with 70% of metastatic prostate and breast cancer patients harboring bone metastasis. Despite advancements in systemic therapies for advanced cancer, survival remains poor for those with bone metastases. The interaction between bone cells and the immune system contributes to a better understanding of the role that the immune system plays in the bone metastasis of cancer. The immune and bone systems share various molecules, including transcription factors, signaling molecules, and membrane receptors, which can stimulate the differentiation and activation of bone-resorbing osteoclasts. The process of cancer metastasis to bone, which deregulates bone turnover and results in bone loss and skeletal-related events (SREs), is also controlled by primary cancer-related factors that modulate the intratumoral microenvironment as well as cellular immune process. The nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL) and the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B (RANK) are key regulators of osteoclast development, bone metabolism, lymph node development, and T-cell/dendritic cell communication. RANKL is an osteoclastogenic cytokine that links the bone and the immune system. In this review, we highlight the role of RANKL and RANK in the immune microenvironment and bone metastases and review data on the role of the regulatory mechanism of immunity in bone metastases, which could be verified through clinical efficacy of RANKL inhibitors for cancer patients with bone metastases. With the discovery of the specific role of RANK signaling in osteoclastogenesis, the humanized monoclonal antibody against RANKL, such as denosumab, was available to prevent bone loss, SREs, and bone metastases, providing a unique opportunity to target RANKL/RANK as a future strategy to prevent bone metastases.

Mechanical Static Force Negatively Regulates Vitality and Early Skeletal Development in Zebrafish Embryos

Skeletal system development and remodelling is regulated by several different factors, including hormones, cytokines, and mechanical forces. It is known that gravity and pressure stimulate mechanosensors on bone cells which transduce mechanical signals to chemical ones. Nevertheless, few data have been provided about the role of mechanical forces on embryo osteogenesis in vivo. Since the zebrafish is an elective model for developmental studies, in particular on bone formation and tissue mineralization, we analyzed in vivo the effects of a static mechanical force generated by a water column on fertilized zebrafish eggs. The results have shown that an increase in the hydrostatic pressure (HP) of up to 5.9% was lethal for 100% of treated embryos at 48 h post fertilization (hpf). A small decrease in length (−2%) and 49% mortality were found in the +4.4% HP embryos compared with the controls. To analyze skeletal development, we evaluated the number of mineralized vertebral bodies in the trunk at five days post fertilization. The embryos grown under +2.4% HP showed a physiological intramembranous mineralization of vertebral bodies whereas the embryos which grew with +3.4% HP showed a significant decrease in mineralization rate (−54%). Morphological analysis of cartilage and bones in embryos at +3.4% HP revealed a delay of both intramembranous and chondrogenic mineralization, respectively, in axial and head bones, whereas the chondrogenesis appeared normal. These data suggested that developing osteoblasts and different mineralization programs are sensitive to mechanical pressure when applied to early embryogenesis.

Exercise to Mend Aged-tissue Crosstalk in Bone Targeting Osteoporosis & Osteoarthritis

Aging induces alterations in bone structure and strength through a multitude of processes, exacerbating common aging- related diseases like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Cellular hallmarks of aging are examined, as related to bone and the marrow microenvironment, and ways in which these might contribute to a variety of age-related perturbations in osteoblasts, osteocytes, marrow adipocytes, chondrocytes, osteoclasts, and their respective progenitors. Cellular senescence, stem cell exhaustion, mitochondrial dysfunction, epigenetic and intracellular communication changes are central pathways and recognized as associated and potentially causal in aging. We focus on these in musculoskeletal system and highlight knowledge gaps in the literature regarding cellular and tissue crosstalk in bone, cartilage, and the bone marrow niche. While senolytics have been utilized to target aging pathways, here we propose non-pharmacologic, exercise-based interventions as prospective "senolytics" against aging effects on the skeleton. Increased bone mass and delayed onset or progression of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis are some of the recognized benefits of regular exercise across the lifespan. Further investigation is needed to delineate how cellular indicators of aging manifest in bone and the marrow niche and how altered cellular and tissue crosstalk impact disease progression, as well as consideration of exercise as a therapeutic modality, as a means to enhance discovery of bone-targeted therapies.

Fluid shear stress-induced down-regulation of microRNA-140-5p promotes osteoblast proliferation by targeting VEGFA via the ERK5 pathway

PURPOSE

Fluid shear stress (FSS) plays a critical role in osteoblast proliferation. However, the role of miRNA in osteoblast proliferation induced by FSS and the possible molecular mechanisms remain to be defined. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether miR-140-5p regulates osteoblast proliferation under FSS and its molecular mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

miR-140-5p expression was measured by qRT-PCR. Western blot was used to measure the expressions of P-ERK1/2, ERK1/2, P-ERK5 and ERK5. The levels of VEGFA, PCNA, CDK4 and Cyclin D1 were identified through qRT-PCR and western blot, respectively. Cell proliferation was detected by CCK-8 assay and EdU labeling assay. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to validate the target of miR-140-5p.

RESULTS

miR-140-5p was significantly down-regulated when MC3T3-E1 cells were exposed to FSS. We then confirmed that up-regulation of miR-140-5p inhibited and down-regulation of miR-140-5p promoted osteoblast proliferation. In addition, FSS promotes osteoblast proliferation via down-regulating miR-140-5p. Luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that VEGFA is a direct target of miR-140-5p. Furthermore, transfection of mimic-140-5p inhibited the up-regulation of VEGFA protein level induced by FSS, suggesting that FSS regulates VEGFA protein expression via miR-140-5p. Further investigations demonstrated that VEGFA could promote osteoblast proliferation. Lastly, we demonstrated that miR-140-5p regulates osteoblast proliferation and ERK5 activation through VEGFA.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that FSS-induced the down-regulation of miR-140-5p promotes osteoblast proliferation through activing VEGFA/ERK5 signaling pathway. These findings may provide a novel mechanism of FSS-induced osteoblast proliferation and offer a new avenue to further investigate osteogenesis induced by mechanical loading.

Dissociation of Bone Resorption and Formation in Spaceflight and Simulated Microgravity: Potential Role of Myokines and Osteokines?

The dissociation of bone formation and resorption is an important physiological process during spaceflight. It also occurs during local skeletal unloading or immobilization, such as in people with neuromuscular disorders or those who are on bed rest. Under these conditions, the physiological systems of the human body are perturbed down to the cellular level. Through the absence of mechanical stimuli, the musculoskeletal system and, predominantly, the postural skeletal muscles are largely affected. Despite in-flight exercise countermeasures, muscle wasting and bone loss occur, which are associated with spaceflight duration. Nevertheless, countermeasures can be effective, especially by preventing muscle wasting to rescue both postural and dynamic as well as muscle performance. Thus far, it is largely unknown how changes in bone microarchitecture evolve over the long term in the absence of a gravity vector and whether bone loss incurred in space or following the return to the Earth fully recovers or partly persists. In this review, we highlight the different mechanisms and factors that regulate the humoral crosstalk between the muscle and the bone. Further we focus on the interplay between currently known myokines and osteokines and their mutual regulation.

Regulation of bone health through physical exercise: Mechanisms and types

Osteoporosis, characterized by bone mineral density reduction, bone mass loss, increased bone fragility, and propensity to fractures, is a common disease in older individuals and one of the most serious health problems worldwide. The imbalance between osteoblasts and osteoclasts results in the predominance of bone resorption and decreased bone formation. In recent years, it has been found that regular and proper exercise not only helps prevent the occurrence of osteoporosis but also adds benefits to osteoporosis therapy; accordingly, bone homeostasis is closely associated with mechanical stress and the intricate crosstalk between osteoblasts and osteoclasts. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of exercise on osteoporosis and provide new proposals for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

The Potential Role of Exercise Training and Mechanical Loading on Bone-Associated Skeletal Nerves

The spatial distribution, innervation, and functional role of the bone-associated skeletal nerves have been previously reported in detail. However, studies examining exercise-induced associations between skeletal nerves and bone metabolism are limited. This review introduces a potential relationship between exercise and the skeletal nerves and discusses how it can contribute to exercise-induced bone anabolism. First, the background and current understanding of nerve fiber types and their functions in the skeleton are provided. Next, the influence of exercise and mechanical loading on the skeletal nervous system is elaborated. Effective synthesis of recent studies could serve as an established baseline for the novel discovery of the effects of exercise on skeletal nerve density and bone anabolic activity in the future. Therefore, this review overviews the existing evidence for the neural control of bone metabolism and the potential positive effects of exercise on the peripheral skeletal nervous system. The influence of exercise training models on the relationships of sensory nerve signals with osteoblast-mediated bone formation and the increased bone volume provides the first insight on the potential importance of exercise training in stimulating positive adaptations in the skeletal nerve-bone interaction and its downstream effect on bone metabolism, thereby highlighting its therapeutic potential in a variety of clinical populations.

Anisotropic magneto-mechanical stimulation on collagen coatings to accelerate osteogenesis

Mechanical stimulation has been considered to be critical to cellular response and tissue regeneration. However, harnessing the direction of mechanical stimulation during osteogenesis still remains a challenge. In this study, we designed a series of novel magnetized collagen coatings (MCCs) (randomly or parallel-oriented collagen fibers) to exert the anisotropic mechanical stimulation using oriented magnetic actuation during osteogenesis. Strikingly, we found the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were significantly up-regulated when the direction of magnetic actuation was parallel to the randomly-oriented collagen coating surface, in contrast to the down-regulated capacity under the perpendicular magnetic actuation. Moreover, further exerting a parallel mechanical stimulation along the parallel-oriented collagen coating, which cells have been oriented by the oriented collagens, were not only able to up-regulate the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs but also promote the new bone formation during osteogenesis in vivo. We also demonstrated the anisotropic magneto-mechanical stimulation for the osteogenic differences might be attributed to the stretching or bending tensile status of collagen fibers controlled by the direction of magnetic actuation, driving the α₅β₁-dependent integrin signaling cascade. This study therefore got insight of understanding the directional mechanical stimulation on osteogenesis, and also paved a way for sustaining regulation of the biomaterials-host interface.

Insights into oxidative stress in bone tissue and novel challenges for biomaterials

The presence of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in bone can influence resident cells behaviour as well as the extra-cellular matrix composition and the tissue architecture. Aging, in addition to excessive overloads, unbalanced diet, smoking, predisposing genetic factors, lead to an increase of ROS and, if it is accompanied with an inappropriate production of scavengers, promotes the generation of oxidative stress that encourages bone catabolism. Furthermore, bone injuries can be triggered by numerous events such as road and sports accidents or tumour resection. Although bone tissue possesses a well-known repair and regeneration capacity, these mechanisms are inefficient in repairing large size defects and bone grafts are often necessary. ROS play a fundamental role in response after the implant introduction and can influence its success. This review provides insights on the mechanisms of oxidative stress generated by an implant in vivo and suitable ways for its modulation. The local delivery of active molecules, such as polyphenols, enhanced bone biomaterial integration evidencing that the management of the oxidative stress is a target for the effectiveness of an implant. Polyphenols have been widely used in medicine for cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, bone disorders and cancer, thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, the perspective of new smart biomaterials and molecular medicine for the oxidative stress modulation in a programmable way, by the use of ROS responsive materials or by the targeting of selective molecular pathways involved in ROS generation, will be analysed and discussed critically.

Microfluidic Chip with Low Constant-Current Stimulation (LCCS) Platform: Human Nucleus Pulposus Degeneration In Vitro Model for Symptomatic Intervertebral Disc

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a major cause of low back pain (LBP) in the lumbar spine. This phenomenon is caused by several processes, including matrix degradation in IVD tissues, which is mediated by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and inflammatory responses, which can be mediated by interactions among immune cells, such as macrophages and IVD cells. In particular, interleukin (IL)-1 beta (β), which is a master regulator secreted by macrophages, mediates the inflammatory response in nucleus pulposus cells (NP) and plays a significant role in the development or progression of diseases. In this study, we developed a custom electrical stimulation (ES) platform that can apply low-constant-current stimulation (LCCS) signals to microfluidic chips. Using this platform, we examined the effects of LCCS on IL-1β-mediated inflammatory NP cells, administered at various currents (5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 μA at 200 Hz). Our results showed that the inflammatory response, induced by IL-1β in human NP cells, was successfully established. Furthermore, 5, 10, 20, and 100 μA LCCS positively modulated inflamed human NP cells' morphological phenotype and kinetic properties. LCCS could affect the treatment of degenerative diseases, revealing the applicability of the LCCS platform for basic research of electroceuticals.

Effects of and Response to Mechanical Loading on the Knee

Mechanical loading to the knee joint results in a differential response based on the local capacity of the tissues (ligament, tendon, meniscus, cartilage, and bone) and how those tissues subsequently adapt to that load at the molecular and cellular level. Participation in cutting, pivoting, and jumping sports predisposes the knee to the risk of injury. In this narrative review, we describe different mechanisms of loading that can result in excessive loads to the knee, leading to ligamentous, musculotendinous, meniscal, and chondral injuries or maladaptations. Following injury (or surgery) to structures around the knee, the primary goal of rehabilitation is to maximize the patient's response to exercise at the current level of function, while minimizing the risk of re-injury to the healing tissue. Clinicians should have a clear understanding of the specific injured tissue(s), and rehabilitation should be driven by knowledge of tissue-healing constraints, knee complex and lower extremity biomechanics, neuromuscular physiology, task-specific activities involving weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing conditions, and training principles. We provide a practical application for prescribing loading progressions of exercises, functional activities, and mobility tasks based on their mechanical load profile to knee-specific structures during the rehabilitation process. Various loading interventions can be used by clinicians to produce physical stress to address body function, physical impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. By modifying the mechanical load elements, clinicians can alter the tissue adaptations, facilitate motor learning, and resolve corresponding physical impairments. Providing different loads that create variable tensile, compressive, and shear deformation on the tissue through mechanotransduction and specificity can promote the appropriate stress adaptations to increase tissue capacity and injury tolerance. Tools for monitoring rehabilitation training loads to the knee are proposed to assess the reactivity of the knee joint to mechanical loading to monitor excessive mechanical loads and facilitate optimal rehabilitation.

Mechanosensitive miR-100 coordinates TGFβ and Wnt signaling in osteocytes during fluid shear stress

Organism scale mechanical forces elicit cellular scale changes through coordinated regulation of multiple signaling pathways. The mechanisms by which cells integrate signaling to generate a unified biological response remains a major question in mechanobiology. For example, the mechanosensitive response of bone and other tissues requires coordinated signaling by the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) and Wnt pathways through mechanisms that are not well‐defined. Here we report a new microRNA‐dependent mechanism that mediates mechanosensitive crosstalk between TGFβ and Wnt signaling in osteocytes exposed to fluid shear stress (FSS). From 60 mechanosensitive microRNA (miRs) identified by small‐RNAseq, miR100 expression is suppressed by in vivo hindlimb loading in the murine tibia and by cellular scale FSS in OCY454 cells. Though FSS activates both TGFβ and Wnt signaling in osteocytes, only TGFβ represses miR‐100 expression. miR‐100, in turn, antagonizes Wnt signaling by targeting and inhibiting expression of Frizzled receptors (FZD5/FZD8). Accordingly, miR‐100 inhibition blunts FSS‐ and TGFβ‐inducible Wnt signaling. Therefore, our results identify FSS‐responsive miRNAs in osteocytes, including one that integrates the mechanosensitive function of two essential signaling pathways in the osteoanabolic response of bone to mechanical load.

Dynamic modeling of bone remodeling, osteolytic metastasis and PK/PD therapy: introducing variable order derivatives as a simplification technique

Bone is constantly being renewed: in the adult skeleton, bone resorption and formation are in a tightly coupled balance, allowing for a constant bone density to be maintained. Yet this micro-environment provides the necessary conditions for the growth and proliferation of tumor cells, and thus bone is a common site for the development of metastases, mainly from primary breast and prostate cancer. Mathematical and computational models with differential equations can replicate this bone remodeling process. These models have been extended to include the effects of disruptive tumor pathologies in the bone dynamics, as metastases contribute to the decoupling between bone resorption and formation and to the self-perpetuating tumor growth cycle. Such models may also contemplate the counteraction effects of currently used therapies, and, in the case of treatments with drugs, their pharmocokinetics and pharmacodynamics. We present a thorough overview of biochemical models for bone remodeling, in the presence of a tumour together with anti-cancer and anti-resorptive therapy, formulated as systems of first-order differential equations, or simplified using variable order derivatives. The latter models, of which some are new to this paper, result in equations with fewer parameters, and allow accounting for anomalous diffusion processes. In this way, more compact and parsimonious models, that promptly highlight tumorous bone interactions, are achieved, providing an effective framework to counteract the loss of bone integrity on the affected areas.

Suppression of cancer-associated bone loss through dynamic mechanical loading

Patients afflicted with or being treated for cancer constitute a distinct and alarming subpopulation who exhibit elevated fracture risk and heightened susceptibility to developing secondary osteoporosis. Cancer cells uncouple the regulatory processes central for the adequate regulation of musculoskeletal tissue. Systemically taxing treatments to target tumors or disrupt the molecular elements driving tumor growth place considerable strain on recovery efforts. Skeletal tissue is inherently sensitive to mechanical forces, therefore attention to exercise and mechanical loading as non-pharmacological means to preserve bone during treatment and in post-treatment rehabilitative efforts have been topics of recent focus. This review discusses the dysregulation that cancers and the ensuing metabolic dysfunction that confer adverse effects on musculoskeletal tissues. Additionally, we describe foundational mechanotransduction pathways and the mechanisms by which they influence both musculoskeletal and cancerous cells. Functional and biological implications of mechanical loading at the tissue and cellular levels will be discussed, highlighting the current understanding in the field. Herein, in vitro, translational, and clinical data are summarized to consider the positive impact of exercise and low magnitude mechanical loading on tumor-bearing skeletal tissue.

Fluid shear stress regulates osteoblast proliferation and apoptosis via the lncRNA TUG1/miR-34a/FGFR1 axis

LncRNAs and microRNAs play critical roles in osteoblast differentiation and bone formation. However, their exact roles in osteoblasts under fluid shear stress (FSS) and the possible mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of this study was to explore whether and how miR‐34a regulates osteoblast proliferation and apoptosis under FSS. In this study, FSS down‐regulated miR‐34a levels of MC3T3‐E1 cells. MiR‐34a up‐regulation attenuated FSS‐induced promotion of proliferation and suppression of apoptosis. Luciferase reporter assay revealed that miR‐34a directly targeted FGFR1. Moreover, miR‐34a regulated osteoblast proliferation and apoptosis via FGFR1. Further, we validated that lncRNA TUG1 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to interact with miR‐34a and up‐regulate FGFR1 protein expression. Furthermore, lncRNA TUG1 could promote proliferation and inhibit apoptosis. Taken together, our study revealed the key role of the lncRNA TUG1/miR‐34a/FGFR1 axis in FSS‐regulated osteoblast proliferation and apoptosis and may provide potential therapeutic targets for osteoporosis.

Low-Level Erbium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Laser Irradiation Induced Alteration of Gene Expression in Osteogenic Cells from Rat Calvariae

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of low-level erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) laser irradiation on gene expression in osteogenic cells from rat calvariae. Background: Previous studies showed beneficial effects of laser irradiation on bone-related cells. However, few studies have examined the gene expression alteration by laser irradiation on osteogenic cells in a calcified condition. Materials and methods: Osteogenic cells were prepared by culturing rat calvarial osteoblast-like cells in osteoinductive medium for 21 days. The cells at the bottom of the culture dish were irradiated with Er:YAG laser (wavelength: 2.94 μm, energy density: 3.1 and 8.2 J/cm²) positioned at distance of 25 cm. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay of the irradiated cells was performed. After screening for genes related to bone formation, mechanotransduction, and thermal effect by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), gene expression at 3 h after 3.1 J/cm² irradiation was comprehensively analyzed using microarray. Results: No dramatical increase in surface temperature and LDH activities after laser irradiation were observed. Sost expression was significantly reduced at 3 h after 3.1 J/cm² irradiation. Bcar1 and Hspa1a expression was significantly increased following 8.2 J/cm² irradiation. Microarray analysis identified 116 differentially expressed genes. Gene set enrichment analysis showed enrichment of histone H3-K9 methylation and modification gene sets. Conclusions: Er:YAG laser irradiation, especially at 3.1 J/cm², showed positive effect on the expression of genes related to bone formation in osteogenic cells, without inducing significant cell damage. These findings may represent critical mechanisms of early bone formation after Er:YAG laser irradiation.

Serum exosomes from young rats improve the reduced osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs in aged rats with osteoporosis after fatigue loading in vivo

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is a major public health concern for the elderly population and is characterized by fatigue load resulting in bone microdamage. The ability of bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) to repair bone microdamage diminishes with age, and the accumulation of bone microdamage increases the risk of osteoporotic fracture. There is a lack of effective means to promote the repair of bone microdamage in aged patients with osteoporosis. Exosomes have been shown to be related to the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Here, we aimed to evaluate the changes in the osteogenic differentiation capacity of BMSCs in aged osteoporotic rats after fatigue loading and the treatment potential of serum exosomes from young rats.

METHODS

The tibias of six aged osteoporotic rats were subjected to fatigue loading in vivo for 2 weeks, and the bone microdamage, microstructures, and mechanical properties were assessed. Subsequently, BMSCs were extracted to evaluate their proliferation and osteogenic differentiation abilities. In addition, the BMSCs of aged osteoporotic rats after fatigue loading were treated with serum exosomes from young rats under osteogenic induction conditions, and the expression of osteogenic-related miRNAs was quantified. The osteogenetic effects of miRNA-19b-3p in exosomes and the possible target protein PTEN was detected.

RESULTS

Obvious bone microdamage at the fatigue load stress point, the bone microstructure and biomechanical properties were not obviously changed. A decreased osteogenic differentiation ability of BMSCs was observed after fatigue loading, while serum exosomes from young rats highly expressing miRNA-19b-3p improved the decreased osteogenic differentiation ability of BMSCs. Transfection with miRNA-19b-3p mimic could promote osteoblastic differentiation of BMSCs and decreased the expression of PTEN. After transfection of miRNA-19b-3p inhibitor, the promotional effect of exosomes on bone differentiation was weakened. Treatment with transfected exosomes increased the expression of PTEN.

CONCLUSION

Serum exosomes derived from young rats can improve the decreased osteogenic differentiation ability of BMSCs in aged rats with osteoporosis after fatigue loading and can provide a new treatment strategy for the repair of bone microdamage and prevention of fractures.

A microfluidics-based method for culturing osteoblasts on biomimetic hydroxyapatite

The reliability of conventional cell culture studies to evaluate biomaterials is often questioned, as in vitro outcomes may contradict results obtained through in vivo assays. Microfluidics technology has the potential to reproduce complex physiological conditions by allowing for fine control of microscale features such as cell confinement and flow rate. Having a continuous flow during cell culture is especially advantageous for bioactive biomaterials such as calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite (HA), which may otherwise alter medium composition and jeopardize cell viability, potentially producing false negative results in vitro. In this work, HA was integrated into a microfluidics-based platform (HA-on-chip) and the effect of varied flow rates (2, 8 and 14 µl/min, corresponding to 0.002, 0.008 and 0.014 dyn/cm², respectively) was evaluated. A HA sample placed in a well plate (HA-static) was included as a control. While substantial calcium depletion and phosphate release occurred in static conditions, the concentration of ions in HA-on-chip samples remained similar to those of fresh medium, particularly at higher flow rates. Pre-osteoblast-like cells (MC3T3-E1) exhibited a significantly higher degree of proliferation on HA-on-chip (8 μl/min flow rate) as compared to HA-static. However, cell differentiation, analysed by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, showed low values in both conditions. This study indicates that cells respond differently when cultured on HA under flow compared to static conditions, which indicates the need for more physiologically relevant methods to increase the predictive value of in vitro studies used to evaluate biomaterials. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: There is a lack of correlation between the results obtained when testing some biomaterials under cell culture as opposed to animal models. To address this issue, a cell culture method with slightly enhanced physiological relevance was developed by incorporating a biomaterial, known to regenerate bone, inside of a microfluidic platform that enabled a continuous supply of cell culture medium. Since the utilized biomaterial interacts with surrounding ions, the perfusion of medium allowed for shielding of these changes similarly as would happen in the body. The experimental outcomes observed in the dynamic platform were different than those obtained with standard static cell culture systems, proving the key role of the platform in the assessment of biomaterials.

Integration of mechanics and biology in computer simulation of bone remodeling

Bone remodeling is a complex physiological process that spans across multiple spatial and temporal scales and is regulated by both mechanical and hormonal cues. An imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation in the process of bone remodeling may lead to various bone pathologies. One powerful and non-invasive approach to gain new insights into mechano-adaptive bone remodeling is computer modeling and simulation. Recent findings in bone physiology and advances in computer modeling have provided a unique opportunity to study the integration of mechanics and biology in bone remodeling. Our objective in this review is to critically appraise recent advances and developments and discuss future research opportunities in computational bone remodeling approaches that enable integration of mechanics and cellular and molecular pathways. Based on the critical appraisal of the relevant recent published literature, we conclude that multiscale in silico integration of personalized bone mechanics and mechanobiology combined with data science and analytics techniques offer the potential to deepen our knowledge of bone remodeling and provide ample opportunities for future research.

Turnover and activity-dependent transcriptional control of NompC in the Drosophila ear

Across their lives, biological sensors maintain near-constant functional outputs despite countless exogenous and endogenous perturbations. This sensory homeostasis is the product of multiple dynamic equilibria, the breakdown of which contributes to age-related decline. The mechanisms of homeostatic maintenance, however, are still poorly understood. The ears of vertebrates and insects are characterized by exquisite sensitivities but also by marked functional vulnerabilities. Being under the permanent load of thermal and acoustic noise, auditory transducer channels exemplify the homeostatic challenge. We show that (1) NompC-dependent mechanotransducers in the ear of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster undergo continual replacement with estimated turnover times of 9.1 hr; (2) a de novo synthesis of NompC can restore transducer function in the adult ears of congenitally hearing-impaired flies; (3) key components of the auditory transduction chain, including NompC, are under activity-dependent transcriptional control, likely forming a transducer-operated mechanosensory gain control system that extends beyond hearing organs.

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De novo NompC synthesis restores auditory transduction in congenitally deafened flies.

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Complete turnover of NompC mechanotransducers within less than 24 hr.

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Activity-dependent transcriptional control of transducers controls auditory function.

Irisin Regulating Skeletal Response to Endurance Exercise in Ovariectomized Mice by Promoting Akt/β-Catenin Pathway

Purpose: Thought irisin is recognized as a pivotal modulator for bone formation, its role in regulating skeletal response to exercise training remains unknown. Therefore, we aimed to determine the change of irisin in response to 8-week exercise training and its role in regulating the effects of exercise on bone loss in ovariectomized (Ovx) mice.

Methods: Forty 3-month old female C57BL/6 mic were randomly allocated into four groups: (1) Sham-operated (Sham); (2) ovariectomized; (3) Ovx plus 8-week downhill running exercise (Ex); (4) Ovx plus exercise and received twice weekly injection of cyclo RGDyk protein (a putative anti-irisin receptor agents) (ExRg).

Results: Ex group showed enhanced cortical and trabecular volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) (p < 0.05), improved bone microarchitecture, and increased intensity of alkaline phosphatase positive (ALP⁺) cells compared with Ovx group. However, cyclo RGDyk administration weakened the exercise-related improvement of vBMD, BV/TV, and ALP intensity in bone. Serum estradiol, irisin, and bone alkaline phosphatase were higher, whereas circulating tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase was lower in Ex group compared with Ovx group (p < 0.05). Exercise promoted mRNA expression of fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5), Akt and β-catenin, and enhanced protein levels of FNDC5, the ratio of phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt) to Akt, and β-catenin (p < 0.05). When irisin pathways were blocked with cyclo RGDyk, increment of Akt, p-Akt/Akt, and β-catenin in Ex mice were attenuated.

Conclusion: It is suggested that irisin plays a potential role in regulating skeletal response to exercise partly through its interaction with Akt/β-catenin pathways.

The Benefits of Strength Training on Musculoskeletal System Health: Practical Applications for Interdisciplinary Care

Global health organizations have provided recommendations regarding exercise for the general population. Strength training has been included in several position statements due to its multi-systemic benefits. In this narrative review, we examine the available literature, first explaining how specific mechanical loading is converted into positive cellular responses. Secondly, benefits related to specific musculoskeletal tissues are discussed, with practical applications and training programmes clearly outlined for both common musculoskeletal disorders and primary prevention strategies.

Heterogeneous role of integrins in fibroblast response to small cyclic mechanical stimulus generated by a nanoporous gold actuator

It is important to understand the effects of mechanical stimulation on cell behaviors for homeostasis. Many studies have been performed on cell responses to mechanical stimuli, but the mechanosensing mechanism is still under debate. In the present study, experiments employing molecular dynamics (MD) simulations concerning the effects of cyclic mechanical stimulus on cell proliferation were performed based on the hypothesis that mechanosensing depends on integrin types. We used a nanoporous gold (NPG) actuator to prevent transfer of a mechanical stimulus via molecules other than integrins. Surprisingly, a small cyclic strain of only 0.5% enhanced the proliferation of fibroblasts. α₅β₁ and α_vβ₃ integrins showed high sensitivity to the mechanical stimulus, whereas α₁β₁ and α₂β₁ integrins exhibited low mechanosensitivity. The MD simulations showed that different conformational changes of the integrin headpiece induced by binding to the ECM led to a difference in mechanosensitivity between αI and αI-less integrin types. Thus, the present study provides evidence to support the hypothesis and suggests the mechanism for the heterogeneous roles of integrins in mechanosensing.

Effect of Mechanical Strain on Cells Involved in Fracture Healing

Secondary fracture healing is a complex multi‐stage process in which the mechanical environment plays a key role. The use of an appropriate mechanical stimulation such as strain is conducive to tissue formation between fracture ends, thus aiding the healing process. However, if the strain is too large or too small, the biological behavior of the cells involved in bone healing will be affected, resulting in non‐union or delayed healing. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the effect of strain on cells that play a role in the fracture‐healing process. Overall, the related literature suggests that selection of an adequate strain promotes fracture healing through the stimulation of angiogenesis and osteogenesis, along with inhibition of osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption. However, standardized methods for the application of mechanical stimulation are lacking, and a unified consensus on the mechanism by which strain promotes cell differentiation has not yet been reached. These issues, therefore, deserve further investigation.

Mechanical stress regulates bone regulatory gene expression independent of estrogen and vitamin D deficiency in rats

Mechanical stress determines bone mass and structure. It is not known whether mechanical loading affects expression of bone regulatory genes in a combined deficiency of estrogen and vitamin D. We studied the effect of mechanical loading on the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of bone regulatory genes during vitamin D and/or estrogen deficiency. We performed a single bout in vivo axial loading with 14 N peak load, 2 Hz frequency and 360 cycles in right ulnae of nineteen weeks old female control Wistar rats with or without ovariectomy (OVX), vitamin D deficiency and the combination of OVX and vitamin D deficiency (N = 10/group). Total bone RNA was isolated 6 hours after loading, and mRNA expression was detected of Mepe, Fgf23, Dmp1, Phex, Sost, Col1a1, Cyp27b1, Vdr, and Esr1. Serum levels of 25(OH)D, 1,25(OH)2 D and estradiol were also measured at this time point. The effect of loading, vitamin D and estrogen deficiency and their interaction on bone gene expression was tested using a mixed effect model analysis. Mechanical loading significantly increased the mRNA expression of Mepe, and Sost, whereas it decreased the mRNA expression of Fgf23 and Esr1. Mechanical loading showed a significant interaction with vitamin D deficiency with regard to mRNA expression of Vdr and Esr1. Mechanical loading affected gene expression of Mepe, Fgf23, Sost, and Esr1 independently of vitamin D or estrogen, indicating that mechanical loading may affect bone turnover even during vitamin D deficiency and after menopause.

The functions of mechanosensitive ion channels in tooth and bone tissues

Tooth and bone are independent tissues with a close relationship. Both are composed of a highly calcified outer structure and soft inner tissue, and both are constantly under mechanical stress. In particular, the alveolar bone and tooth constitute an occlusion system and suffer from masticatory and occlusal force. Thus, mechanotransduction is a key process in many developmental, physiological and pathological processes in tooth and bone. Mechanosensitive ion channels such as Piezo1 and Piezo2 are important participants in mechanotransduction, but their functions in tooth and bone are poorly understood. This review summarizes our current understanding of mechanosensitive ion channels and their roles in tooth and bone tissues. Research in these areas may shed new light on the regulation of tooth and bone tissues and potential treatments for diseases affecting these tissues.

Efficacy of Flat-Top Hand-Piece Using 980 nm Diode Laser Photobiomodulation on Socket Healing after Extraction: Split-Mouth Experimental Model in Dogs

The objective was to evaluate the effect of photobiomodulation (PBM) using 980 nm diode laser therapy (0.60 W, 0.77 W cm^-2 , 36 J, 46 J cm^-2 , 60 s) irradiated in continuous wave mode by flat-top hand-piece on socket healing in the maxilla and mandible. A split-mouth experimental design was performed on 6 dogs. The 3^rd premolar tooth was extracted from the maxilla and mandibles for both sides. The right-sided sockets were irradiated (PBM group), and the left-sided sockets were kept as control. Irradiation was done after extraction and at 48-h interval for 14 days. Both the buccal and lingual sides were irradiated to reach a total irradiation time of 120 s. Bone density was evaluated at 3, 4 and 5 weeks using cone beam computed tomography. We showed that maxillary sockets in the PBM group had higher bone density compared to control one at 3, 4, 5 weeks (P = 0.029, <0.001, <0.001), respectively. Mandibular sockets revealed no significant difference between PBM and control at 3 weeks (P = 0.347), while at 4 and 5 weeks PBM group showed higher bone density (P = 0.004, <0.001). In both groups, there was a significant increase (P < 0.001) in bone density by time which was higher in the PBM group. We concluded that PBM using a flat-top hand-piece of 980-nm improved the bone density of extraction sockets.

Design and Evaluation of an Osteogenesis-on-a-Chip Microfluidic Device Incorporating 3D Cell Culture

Microfluidic-based tissue-on-a-chip devices have generated significant research interest for biomedical applications, such as pharmaceutical development, as they can be used for small volume, high throughput studies on the effects of therapeutics on tissue-mimics. Tissue-on-a-chip devices are evolving from basic 2D cell cultures incorporated into microfluidic devices to complex 3D approaches, with modern designs aimed at recapitulating the dynamic and mechanical environment of the native tissue. Thus far, most tissue-on-a-chip research has concentrated on organs involved with drug uptake, metabolism and removal (e.g., lung, skin, liver, and kidney); however, models of the drug metabolite target organs will be essential to provide information on therapeutic efficacy. Here, we develop an osteogenesis-on-a-chip device that comprises a 3D environment and fluid shear stresses, both important features of bone. This inexpensive, easy-to-fabricate system based on a polymerized High Internal Phase Emulsion (polyHIPE) supports proliferation, differentiation and extracellular matrix production of human embryonic stem cell-derived mesenchymal progenitor cells (hES-MPs) over extended time periods (up to 21 days). Cells respond positively to both chemical and mechanical stimulation of osteogenesis, with an intermittent flow profile containing rest periods strongly promoting differentiation and matrix formation in comparison to static and continuous flow. Flow and shear stresses were modeled using computational fluid dynamics. Primary cilia were detectable on cells within the device channels demonstrating that this mechanosensory organelle is present in the complex 3D culture environment. In summary, this device aids the development of ‘next-generation’ tools for investigating novel therapeutics for bone in comparison with standard laboratory and animal testing.

ROCK-II inhibition suppresses impaired mechanobiological responses in early estrogen deficient osteoblasts

Mechanobiological responses by osteoblasts are governed by downstream Rho-ROCK signalling through actin cytoskeleton re-arrangements but whether these responses are influenced by estrogen deficiency during osteoporosis remains unknown. The objective of this study was to determine alterations in the mechanobiological responses of estrogen-deficient osteoblasts and investigate whether an inhibitor of the Rho-ROCK signalling can revert these changes. MC3T3-E1 cells were pre-treated with 10 nM 17-β estradiol for 7 days and further cultured with or without estradiol for next 2 days. These cells were treated with or without ROCK-II inhibitor, Y-27632, and oscillatory fluid flow (OFF, 1Pa, 0.5 Hz, 1 h) was applied. Here, we report that Prostaglandin E₂ release, Runt-related transcription factor 2 and Osteopontin gene expression were significantly enhanced in response to OFF in estrogen-deficient cells than in cells with estrogen (3.73 vs 1.63 pg/ng DNA; 13.5 vs 2.6 fold, 2.1 vs 0.4 fold respectively). Upon ROCK-II inhibition, these enhanced effects of estrogen deficiency were downregulated. OFF increased the fibril anisotropy in cells pre-treated with estrogen and this increase was suppressed upon ROCK-II inhibition. This study is the first to demonstrate altered mechanobiological responses by osteoblasts during early estrogen deficiency and that these responses to OFF can be suppressed upon ROCK inhibition.

[Diamond concept for treatment of nonunions and bone defects]

Nonunions represent a very heterogeneous, rare and sometimes very complex disease picture. The causes, localization and degree of expression show a very high variability, which makes it difficult to establish uniform treatment standards. Nevertheless, the process of bone healing is subject to some essential factors, which should be ensured for a successful treatment. Over the years these factors have been better researched and were taken into consideration for the diamond concept, which was first published by Giannoudis et al. in 2007. This provides the physician with a concept that does not neglect the heterogeneity of the disease picture and is an aid to decision making for the treatment regimen in individual cases in order to guarantee the best biological and mechanical conditions. The diamond concept is nowadays widely used and many studies have already demonstrated a successful application. It must be understood as a framework, in which the various treatment options available (bone substitute materials, mesenchymal stem cells, osteosynthesis procedures etc.) are incorporated into the individual factors and therefore provides the physician with a certain freedom of choice in the selection of tools. Additionally, it is not a rigid corset and subject to medical scientific progress in its factors, so that it is exciting to see which new developments will be incorporated in the future.

Low magnitude high frequency vibrations expedite the osteogenesis of bone marrow stem cells on paper based 3D scaffolds

Anabolic effects of low magnitude high frequency (LMHF) vibrations on bone tissue were consistently shown in the literature in vivo, however in vitro efforts to elucidate underlying mechanisms are generally limited to 2D cell culture studies. Three dimensional cell culture platforms better mimic the natural microenvironment and biological processes usually differ in 3D compared to 2D culture. In this study, we used laboratory grade filter paper as a scaffold material for studying the effects of LHMF vibrations on osteogenesis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in a 3D system. LMHF vibrations were applied 15 min/day at 0.1 g acceleration and 90 Hz frequency for 21 days to residing cells under quiescent and osteogenic conditions. mRNA expression analysis was performed for alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin (OCN) genes, Alizarin red S staining was performed for mineral nodule formation and infrared spectroscopy was performed for determination of extracellular matrix composition. The highest osteocalcin expression, mineral nodule formation and the phosphate bands arising from the inorganic phase was observed for the cells incubated in osteogenic induction medium with vibration. Our results showed that filter paper can be used as a model scaffold system for studying the effects of mechanical loads on cells, and LMHF vibrations induced the osteogenic differentiation of stem cells.