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Zeng L, He H, Sun M, Gong X, Zhou M, Hong Y, Wu Y, Chen X, Chen Q. Runx2 and Nell-1 in dental follicle progenitor cells regulate bone remodeling and tooth eruption. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:486. [PMID: 36175952 PMCID: PMC9524038 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03140-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Dental follicles are necessary for tooth eruption, surround the enamel organ and dental papilla, and regulate both the formation and resorption of alveolar bone. Dental follicle progenitor cells (DFPCs), which are stem cells found in dental follicles, differentiate into different kinds of cells that are necessary for tooth formation and eruption. Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) is a transcription factor that is essential for osteoblasts and osteoclasts differentiation, as well as bone remodeling. Mutation of Runx2 causing cleidocranial dysplasia negatively affects osteogenesis and the osteoclastic ability of dental follicles, resulting in tooth eruption difficulties. Among a variety of cells and molecules, Nel-like molecule type 1 (Nell-1) plays an important role in neural crest-derived tissues and is strongly expressed in dental follicles. Nell-1 was originally identified in pathologically fused and fusing sutures of patients with unilateral coronal synostosis, and it plays indispensable roles in bone remodeling, including roles in osteoblast differentiation, bone formation and regeneration, craniofacial skeleton development, and the differentiation of many kinds of stem cells. Runx2 was proven to directly target the Nell-1 gene and regulate its expression. These studies suggested that Runx2/Nell-1 axis may play an important role in the process of tooth eruption by affecting DFPCs. Studies on short and long regulatory noncoding RNAs have revealed the complexity of RNA-mediated regulation of gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. This ceRNA network participates in the regulation of Runx2 and Nell-1 gene expression in a complex way. However, non-study indicated the potential connection between Runx2 and Nell-1, and further researches are still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zeng
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hong He
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China. .,Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310006, China.
| | - Mingjie Sun
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xinyi Gong
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mengqi Zhou
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yaya Hong
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongjia Wu
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xuepeng Chen
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China. .,Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310006, China.
| | - Qianming Chen
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China. .,Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310006, China.
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Tanjaya J, Ha P, Zhang Y, Wang C, Shah Y, Berthiaume E, Pan HC, Shi J, Kwak J, Wu B, Ting K, Zhang X, Soo C. Genetic and pharmacologic suppression of PPARγ enhances NELL-1-stimulated bone regeneration. Biomaterials 2022; 287:121609. [PMID: 35839586 PMCID: PMC10434299 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Recent investigations into mechanisms behind the development of osteoporosis suggest that suppressing PPARγ-mediated adipogenesis can improve bone formation and bone mineral density. In this study, we investigated a co-treatment strategy to enhance bone formation by combining NELL-1, an osteogenic molecule that has been extensively studied for its potential use as a therapeutic for osteoporosis, with two methods of PPARγ suppression. First, we suppressed PPARγ genetically using lentiviral PPARγ-shRNA in immunocompromised mice for a proof of concept. Second, we used a PPARγ antagonist to suppress PPARγ pharmacologically in immunocompetent senile osteopenic mice for clinical transability. We found that the co-treatment strategy significantly increased bone formation, increased the proliferation stage cell population, decreased late apoptosis of primary mouse BMSCs, and increased osteogenic marker mRNA levels in comparison to the single agent treatment groups. The addition of PPARγ suppression to NELL-1 therapy enhanced NELL-1's effects on bone formation by upregulating anabolic processes without altering NELL-1's inhibitory effects on osteoclastic and adipogenic activities. Our findings suggest that combining PPARγ suppression with therapeutic NELL-1 may be a viable method that can be further developed as a novel strategy to reverse bone loss and decrease marrow adiposity in age-related osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Tanjaya
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Regenerative and Reconstructive Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025
| | - Pin Ha
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Regenerative and Reconstructive Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025
| | - Yulong Zhang
- Department of Bioengineering, Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025; Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, Division of Regenerative and Reconstructive Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025
| | - Chenchao Wang
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Regenerative and Reconstructive Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025
| | - Yash Shah
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Regenerative and Reconstructive Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025
| | - Emily Berthiaume
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025
| | - Hsin Chuan Pan
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Regenerative and Reconstructive Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025
| | - Jiayu Shi
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Regenerative and Reconstructive Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025
| | - Jinny Kwak
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Regenerative and Reconstructive Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025
| | - Benjamin Wu
- Department of Bioengineering, Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025; David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025; Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, Division of Regenerative and Reconstructive Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025
| | - Kang Ting
- Forsyth Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA, 02142.
| | - Xinli Zhang
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Regenerative and Reconstructive Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025.
| | - Chia Soo
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025; David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025; Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, Division of Regenerative and Reconstructive Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90025.
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3
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Chen X, Wang H, Yu M, Kim JK, Qi H, Ha P, Jiang W, Chen E, Luo X, Needle RB, Baik L, Yang C, Shi J, Kwak JH, Ting K, Zhang X, Soo C. Cumulative inactivation of Nell-1 in Wnt1 expressing cell lineages results in craniofacial skeletal hypoplasia and postnatal hydrocephalus. Cell Death Differ 2020; 27:1415-1430. [PMID: 31582804 PMCID: PMC7206096 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-019-0427-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Upregulation of Nell-1 has been associated with craniosynostosis (CS) in humans, and validated in a mouse transgenic Nell-1 overexpression model. Global Nell-1 inactivation in mice by N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) mutagenesis results in neonatal lethality with skeletal abnormalities including cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD)-like calvarial bone defects. This study further defines the role of Nell-1 in craniofacial skeletogenesis by investigating specific inactivation of Nell-1 in Wnt1 expressing cell lineages due to the importance of cranial neural crest cells (CNCCs) in craniofacial tissue development. Nell-1flox/flox; Wnt1-Cre (Nell-1Wnt1 KO) mice were generated for comprehensive analysis, while the relevant reporter mice were created for CNCC lineage tracing. Nell-1Wnt1 KO mice were born alive, but revealed significant frontonasal and mandibular bone defects with complete penetrance. Immunostaining demonstrated that the affected craniofacial bones exhibited decreased osteogenic and Wnt/β-catenin markers (Osteocalcin and active-β-catenin). Nell-1-deficient CNCCs demonstrated a significant reduction in cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation. Active-β-catenin levels were significantly low in Nell-1-deficient CNCCs, but were rescued along with osteogenic capacity to a level close to that of wild-type (WT) cells via exogenous Nell-1 protein. Surprisingly, 5.4% of young adult Nell-1Wnt1 KO mice developed hydrocephalus with premature ossification of the intrasphenoidal synchondrosis and widened frontal, sagittal, and coronal sutures. Furthermore, the epithelial cells of the choroid plexus and ependymal cells exhibited degenerative changes with misplaced expression of their respective markers, transthyretin and vimentin, as well as dysregulated Pit-2 expression in hydrocephalic Nell-1Wnt1 KO mice. Nell-1Wnt1 KO embryos at E9.5, 14.5, 17.5, and newborn mice did not exhibit hydrocephalic phenotypes grossly and/or histologically. Collectively, Nell-1 is a pivotal modulator of CNCCs that is essential for normal development and growth of the cranial vault and base, and mandibles partially via activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Nell-1 may also be critically involved in regulating cerebrospinal fluid homeostasis and in the pathogenesis of postnatal hydrocephalus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Chen
- Department of Orthodontics, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Medical College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, PR China
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Huiming Wang
- Department of Oral Implantology, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Medical College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Mengliu Yu
- Department of Oral Implantology, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Medical College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, PR China
- Center of Stomatology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, 2nd Yinghuayuan East Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing, PR China
| | - Jong Kil Kim
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Huichuan Qi
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Orthodontics, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, PR China
| | - Pin Ha
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Wenlu Jiang
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eric Chen
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xiangyou Luo
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Ryan Brent Needle
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lloyd Baik
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Cathryn Yang
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jiejun Shi
- Department of Orthodontics, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Medical College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Jin Hee Kwak
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kang Ting
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xinli Zhang
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Chia Soo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, UCLA and Orthopaedic Hospital, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Niimi T. Roles of Slit Ligands and Their Roundabout (Robo) Family of Receptors in Bone Remodeling. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 21:143-154. [PMID: 32986130 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2020_586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Slit guidance ligands (Slits) and their roundabout (Robo) family of receptors are well-known axon guidance molecules that were originally identified in Drosophila mutants with commissural axon pathfinding defects. However, Slit-Robo signaling has been shown to be involved in not only neurogenesis, but also the development of other organs such as the kidney and heart. Recently, it was also revealed that Slit-Robo signaling plays an important role in bone metabolism. For example, osteoclast-derived Slit3 plays an osteoprotective role by synchronously stimulating bone formation by osteoblasts and suppressing bone resorption by osteoclasts through Robo receptors expressed on osteoblastic and osteoclastic cell lineages, making it a potential therapeutic target for metabolic bone disorders. Furthermore, osteoblast-derived Slit3 promotes bone formation indirectly as a proangiogenic factor. This review summarizes the recent progress on defining the roles of the Slit-Robo signaling in bone metabolism, and discusses the possible roles of the interaction between Robo and neural epidermal growth factor-like (NEL)-like (NELL) proteins that are novel ligands for Robo receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoaki Niimi
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan.
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5
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Li C, Zhang X, Zheng Z, Nguyen A, Ting K, Soo C. Nell-1 Is a Key Functional Modulator in Osteochondrogenesis and Beyond. J Dent Res 2019; 98:1458-1468. [PMID: 31610747 DOI: 10.1177/0022034519882000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural EGFL-like 1 (Nell-1) is a well-studied osteogenic factor that has comparable osteogenic potency with the Food and Drug Administration-approved bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP-2). In this review, which aims to summarize the advanced Nell-1 research in the past 10 y, we start with the correlation of structural and functional relevance of the Nell-1 protein with the identification of a specific receptor of Nell-1, contactin-associated protein-like 4 (Cntnap4), for osteogenesis. The indispensable role of Nell-1 in normal craniofacial and appendicular skeletal development and growth was also defined by using the newly developed tissue-specific Nell-1 knockout mouse lines in addition to the existing transgenic mouse models. With the achievements on Nell-1's osteogenic therapeutic evaluations from multiple preclinical animal models for local and systemic bone regeneration, the synergistic effect of Nell-1 with BMP-2 on osteogenesis, as well as the advantages of Nell-1 as an osteogenic protein with antiadipogenic, anti-inflammatory, and provascularized characteristics over BMP-2 in bone tissue engineering, is highlighted, which lays the groundwork for the clinical trial approval of Nell-1. At the molecular level, besides the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, we emphasize the significant involvement of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway as well as the key regulatory molecules Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) in Nell-1-induced osteogenesis. In addition, the involvement of Nell-1 in chondrogenesis and its relevant pathologies have been revealed with the participation of the nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (Nfatc1), Runx3, and Indian hedgehog (Ihh) signaling pathways, although the mechanistic insights of Nell-1's osteochondrogenic property will be continuously evolving. With this perspective, we elucidate some emerging and novel functional properties of Nell-1 in oral-dental and neural tissues that will be the frontiers of future Nell-1 studies beyond the context of bone and cartilage. As such, the therapeutic potential of Nell-1 continues to evolve and grow with continuous pursuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Li
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - X Zhang
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Z Zheng
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - A Nguyen
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - K Ting
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - C Soo
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Liu L, Lam WMR, Naidu M, Yang Z, Wang M, Ren X, Hu T, Kumarsing R, Ting K, Goh JCH, Wong HK. Synergistic Effect of NELL-1 and an Ultra-Low Dose of BMP-2 on Spinal Fusion. Tissue Eng Part A 2019; 25:1677-1689. [PMID: 31337284 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2019.0124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) is widely used in spinal fusion but it can cause adverse effects such as ectopic bone and adipose tissue in vivo. Neural epidermal growth factor like-like molecule-1 (NELL-1) has been shown to suppress BMP-2-induced adverse effects. However, no optimum carriers that control both NELL-1 and BMP-2 releases to elicit long-term bioactivity have been developed. In this study, we employed polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) as a control release carrier for NELL-1 and BMP-2. An ultra-low dose of BMP-2 synergistically functioned with NELL-1 on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells osteogenic differentiation with greater mineralization in vitro. The osteoinductive ability of NELL-1 and an ultra-low dose of BMP-2 in PEC was investigated in rat posterolateral spinal fusion. Our results showed increased fusion rate, bone architecture, and improved bone stiffness at 8 weeks after surgery in the combination groups compared with NELL-1 or BMP-2 alone. Moreover, the formation of ectopic bone and adipose tissue was negligible in all the PEC groups. In summary, dual delivery of NELL-1 and an ultra-low dose of BMP-2 in the PEC control release carrier has greater fusion efficiency compared with BMP-2 alone and could potentially be a better alternative to the currently used BMP-2 treatments for spinal fusion. Impact Statement In this study, polyelectrolyte complex was used to absorb neural epidermal growth factor like-like molecule-1 (NELL-1) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) to achieve controlled dual release. The addition of NELL-1 significantly reduced the effective dose of BMP-2 to 2.5% of its conventional dose in absorbable collagen sponge, to produce solid spinal fusion without significant adverse effects. This study was the first to identify the efficacy of combination NELL-1 and BMP-2 in a control release carrier in spinal fusion, which could be potentially used clinically to increase fusion rate and avoid the adverse effects commonly associated with conventional BMP-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Liu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wing Moon Raymond Lam
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mathanapriya Naidu
- Cancer Science Institute, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zheng Yang
- NUS Tissue Engineering Program (NUSTEP), Life Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiafei Ren
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tao Hu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Ramruttun Kumarsing
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kang Ting
- Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - James Cho-Hong Goh
- NUS Tissue Engineering Program (NUSTEP), Life Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hee-Kit Wong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,NUS Tissue Engineering Program (NUSTEP), Life Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Kuhlwilm M, Boeckx C. A catalog of single nucleotide changes distinguishing modern humans from archaic hominins. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8463. [PMID: 31186485 PMCID: PMC6560109 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44877-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Throughout the past decade, studying ancient genomes has provided unique insights into human prehistory, and differences between modern humans and other branches like Neanderthals can enrich our understanding of the molecular basis of unique modern human traits. Modern human variation and the interactions between different hominin lineages are now well studied, making it reasonable to go beyond fixed genetic changes and explore changes that are observed at high frequency in present-day humans. Here, we identify 571 genes with non-synonymous changes at high frequency. We suggest that molecular mechanisms in cell division and networks affecting cellular features of neurons were prominently modified by these changes. Complex phenotypes in brain growth trajectory and cognitive traits are likely influenced by these networks and other non-coding changes presented here. We propose that at least some of these changes contributed to uniquely human traits, and should be prioritized for experimental validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Kuhlwilm
- Institut de Biologia Evolutiva, (CSIC-Universitat Pompeu Fabra), PRBB, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cedric Boeckx
- ICREA, Barcelona, Spain.
- University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
- UB Institute of Complex Systems, Barcelona, Spain.
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Qi H, Kim JK, Ha P, Chen X, Chen E, Chen Y, Li J, Pan HC, Yu M, Mohazeb Y, Azer S, Baik L, Kwak JH, Ting K, Zhang X, Hu M, Soo C. Inactivation of Nell-1 in Chondrocytes Significantly Impedes Appendicular Skeletogenesis. J Bone Miner Res 2019; 34:533-546. [PMID: 30352124 PMCID: PMC6677149 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.3615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
NELL-1, an osteoinductive protein, has been shown to regulate skeletal ossification. Interestingly, an interstitial 11p14.1-p15.3 deletion involving the Nell-1 gene was recently reported in a patient with short stature and delayed fontanelle closure. Here we sought to define the role of Nell-1 in endochondral ossification by investigating Nell-1-specific inactivation in Col2α1-expressing cell lineages. Nell-1flox/flox ; Col2α1-Cre+ (Nell-1Col2α1 KO) mice were generated for comprehensive analysis. Nell-1Col2α1 KO mice were born alive but displayed subtle femoral length shortening. At 1 and 3 months postpartum, Nell-1 inactivation resulted in dwarfism and premature osteoporotic phenotypes. Specifically, Nell-1Col2α1 KO femurs and tibias exhibited significantly reduced length, bone mineral density (BMD), bone volume per tissue volume (BV/TV), trabecular number/thickness, cortical volume/thickness/density, and increased trabecular separation. The decreased bone formation rate revealed by dynamic histomorphometry was associated with altered numbers and/or function of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Furthermore, longitudinal observations by in vivo micro-CT showed delayed and reduced mineralization at secondary ossification centers in mutants. Histologically, reduced staining intensities of Safranin O, Col-2, Col-10, and fewer BrdU-positive chondrocytes were observed in thinner Nell-1Col2α1 KO epiphyseal plates along with altered distribution and weaker expression level of Ihh, Patched-1, PTHrP, and PTHrP receptor. Primary Nell-1Col2α1 KO chondrocytes also exhibited decreased proliferation and differentiation, and its downregulated expression of the Ihh-PTHrP signaling molecules can be partially rescued by exogenous Nell-1 protein. Moreover, intranuclear Gli-1 protein and gene expression of the Gli-1 downstream target genes, Hip-1 and N-Myc, were also significantly decreased with Nell-1 inactivation. Notably, the rescue effects were diminished/reduced with application of Ihh signaling inhibitors, cyclopamine or GANT61. Taken together, these findings suggest that Nell-1 is a pivotal modulator of epiphyseal homeostasis and endochondral ossification. The cumulative chondrocyte-specific Nell-1 inactivation significantly impedes appendicular skeletogenesis resulting in dwarfism and premature osteoporosis through inhibiting Ihh signaling and predominantly altering the Ihh-PTHrP feedback loop. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huichuan Qi
- Department of Orthodontics, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P. R. China
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jong Kil Kim
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Pin Ha
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Orthodontics, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Medical College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Eric Chen
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Yao Chen
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jiayi Li
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Hsin Chuan Pan
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mengliu Yu
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Center of Stomatology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, 2nd Yinghuayuan East Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yasamin Mohazeb
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sophia Azer
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lloyd Baik
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jin Hee Kwak
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Kang Ting
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Xinli Zhang
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Orthodontics, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P. R. China
| | - Chia Soo
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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9
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Yamamoto N, Kashiwagi M, Ishihara M, Kojima T, Maturana AD, Kuroda S, Niimi T. Robo2 contains a cryptic binding site for neural EGFL-like (NELL) protein 1/2. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:4693-4703. [PMID: 30700556 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra118.005819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The signaling pathways that are mediated by Slit ligands and their Roundabout (Robo) family of receptors play multifunctional roles in the development of the nervous system and other organs. A recent study identified neural epidermal growth factor-like (NEL)-like 2 (NELL2) as a novel ligand for Robo3. In this study, we carried out a comprehensive analysis of the interaction between NELL1 and the Robo family of receptors and demonstrated that Robo2 contains a cryptic binding site for both NELL1 and NELL2. NELL1/2 binds to the first fibronectin type III (FNIII) domain of Robo2 but not to intact Robo2. Mutation analysis revealed that several amino acids within the first FNIII domain are critical for NELL1 binding to Robo2 but not to Robo1. The Robo2 deletion mutants without the fourth immunoglobulin domain and single amino acid substitution mutants that can influence the architecture of the ectodomain facilitated binding to NELL1/2. Acidic conditions increased the binding affinity of Robo2 for NELL1. These results suggest that Robo2 functions as a receptor for NELL1/2, particularly under circumstances where Robo2 undergoes proteolytic digestion. If this is not the case, conformational changes of the ectodomain of Robo2 may unmask the binding site for NELL1/2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoka Yamamoto
- From the Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan and
| | - Manabu Kashiwagi
- From the Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan and
| | - Manami Ishihara
- From the Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan and
| | - Takaaki Kojima
- From the Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan and
| | - Andrés D Maturana
- From the Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan and
| | - Shun'ichi Kuroda
- the Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Osaka 567-0047, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Niimi
- From the Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan and
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10
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Li C, Zheng Z, Ha P, Chen X, Jiang W, Sun S, Chen F, Asatrian G, Berthiaume EA, Kim JK, Chen EC, Pang S, Zhang X, Ting K, Soo C. Neurexin Superfamily Cell Membrane Receptor Contactin-Associated Protein Like-4 (Cntnap4) Is Involved in Neural EGFL-Like 1 (Nell-1)-Responsive Osteogenesis. J Bone Miner Res 2018; 33:1813-1825. [PMID: 29905970 PMCID: PMC6390490 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.3524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Contactin-associated protein-like 4 (Cntnap4) is a member of the neurexin superfamily of transmembrane molecules that have critical functions in neuronal cell communication. Cntnap4 knockout mice display decreased presynaptic gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and increased dopamine release that is associated with severe, highly penetrant, repetitive, and perseverative movements commonly found in human autism spectrum disorder patients. However, no known function of Cntnap4 has been revealed besides the nervous system. Meanwhile, secretory protein neural EGFL-like 1 (Nell-1) is known to exert potent osteogenic effects in multiple small and large animal models without the off-target effects commonly found with bone morphogenetic protein 2. In this study, while searching for a Nell-1-specific cell surface receptor during osteogenesis, we identified and validated a ligand/receptor-like interaction between Nell-1 and Cntnap4 by demonstrating: 1) Nell-1 and Cntnap4 colocalization on the surface of osteogenic-committed cells; 2) high-affinity interaction between Nell-1 and Cntnap4; 3) abrogation of Nell-1-responsive Wnt and MAPK signaling transduction, as well as osteogenic effects, via Cntnap4 knockdown; and 4) replication of calvarial cleidocranial dysplasias-like defects observed in Nell-1-deficient mice in Wnt1-Cre-mediated Cntnap4-knockout transgenic mice. In aggregate, these findings indicate that Cntnap4 plays a critical role in Nell-1-responsive osteogenesis. Further, this is the first functional annotation for Cntnap4 in the musculoskeletal system. Intriguingly, Nell-1 and Cntnap4 also colocalize on the surface of human hippocampal interneurons, implicating Nell-1 as a potential novel ligand for Cntnap4 in the nervous system. This unexpected characterization of the ligand/receptor-like interaction between Nell-1 and Cntnap4 indicates a novel biological functional axis for Nell-1 and Cntnap4 in osteogenesis and, potentially, in neural development and function. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenshuang Li
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Zhong Zheng
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pin Ha
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,The Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Wenlu Jiang
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Shan Sun
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Feng Chen
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Peking University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Greg Asatrian
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Emily A Berthiaume
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jong Kil Kim
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eric C Chen
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Shen Pang
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xinli Zhang
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kang Ting
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Chia Soo
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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11
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Li C, Zheng Z, Zhang X, Asatrian G, Chen E, Song R, Culiat C, Ting K, Soo C. Nfatc1 Is a Functional Transcriptional Factor Mediating Nell-1-Induced Runx3 Upregulation in Chondrocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19010168. [PMID: 29316655 PMCID: PMC5796117 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19010168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural EGFL like 1 (Nell-1) is essential for chondrogenic differentiation, maturation, and regeneration. Our previous studies have demonstrated that Nell-1's pro-chondrogenic activities are predominantly reliant upon runt-related transcription factor 3 (Runx3)-mediated Indian hedgehog (Ihh) signaling. Here, we identify the nuclear factor of activated T-cells 1 (Nfatc1) as the key transcriptional factor mediating the Nell-1 → Runx3 signal transduction in chondrocytes. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation assay, we were able to determine that Nfatc1 binds to the -833--810 region of the Runx3-promoter in response to Nell-1 treatment. By revealing the Nell-1 → Nfatc1 → Runx3 → Ihh cascade, we demonstrate the involvement of Nfatc1, a nuclear factor of activated T-cells, in chondrogenesis, while providing innovative insights into developing a novel therapeutic strategy for cartilage regeneration and other chondrogenesis-related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenshuang Li
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Zhong Zheng
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Xinli Zhang
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Greg Asatrian
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Eric Chen
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Richard Song
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Cymbeline Culiat
- NellOne Therapeutics, Inc., 99 Midway Ln # E, Oak Ridge, TN 37830, USA.
| | - Kang Ting
- Division of Growth and Development, Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Chia Soo
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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12
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonhealing bone defects represent an immense biomedical burden. Despite recent advances in protein-based bone regeneration, safety concerns over bone morphogenetic protein-2 have prompted the search for alternative factors. Previously, the authors examined the additive/synergistic effects of hedgehog and Nel-like protein-1 (NELL-1) on the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells in vitro. In this study, the authors sought to leverage their previous findings by applying the combination of Smoothened agonist (SAG), hedgehog signal activator, and NELL-1 to an in vivo critical-size bone defect model. METHODS A 4-mm parietal bone defect was created in mixed-gender CD-1 mice. Treatment groups included control (n = 6), SAG (n = 7), NELL-1 (n = 7), and SAG plus NELL-1 (n = 7). A custom fabricated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) disk with hydroxyapatite coating was used as an osteoinductive scaffold. RESULTS Results at 4 and 8 weeks showed increased bone formation by micro-computed tomographic analyses with either stimulus alone (SAG or NELL-1), but significantly greater bone formation with both components combined (SAG plus NELL-1). This included greater bone healing scores and increased bone volume and bone thickness. Histologic analyses confirmed a significant increase in new bone formation with the combination therapy SAG plus NELL-1, accompanied by increased defect vascularization. CONCLUSIONS In summary, the authors' results suggest that combining the hedgehog signaling agonist SAG and NELL-1 has potential as a novel therapeutic strategy for the healing of critical-size bone defects. Future directions will include optimization of dosage and delivery strategy for an SAG and NELL-1 combination product.
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13
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Li C, Jiang J, Zheng Z, Lee KS, Zhou Y, Chen E, Culiat CT, Qiao Y, Chen X, Ting K, Zhang X, Soo C. Neural EGFL-Like 1 Is a Downstream Regulator of Runt-Related Transcription Factor 2 in Chondrogenic Differentiation and Maturation. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2017; 187:963-972. [PMID: 28302495 PMCID: PMC5417045 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2016.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Revised: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies indicate that neural EGFL-like 1 (Nell-1), a secretive extracellular matrix molecule, is involved in chondrogenic differentiation. Herein, we demonstrated that Nell-1 serves as a key downstream target of runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), a central regulator of chondrogenesis. Unlike in osteoblast lineage cells where Nell-1 and Runx2 demonstrate mutual regulation, further studies in chondrocytes revealed that Runx2 tightly regulates the expression of Nell-1; however, Nell-1 does not alter the expression of Runx2. More important, Nell-1 administration partially restored Runx2 deficiency-induced impairment of chondrocyte differentiation and maturation in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo. Mechanistically, although the expression of Nell-1 is highly reliant on Runx2, the prochondrogenic function of Nell-1 persisted in Runx2-/- scenarios. The biopotency of Nell-1 is independent of the nuclear import and DNA binding functions of Runx2 during chondrogenesis. Nell-1 is a key functional mediator of chondrogenesis, thus opening up new possibilities for the application of Nell-1 in cartilage regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenshuang Li
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Growth and Development, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; Department of Orthodontics, Peking University, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Jiang
- UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Zhong Zheng
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Growth and Development, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Kevin S Lee
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Growth and Development, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Yanheng Zhou
- Department of Orthodontics, Peking University, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China
| | - Eric Chen
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Growth and Development, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | | | - Yiqiang Qiao
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Growth and Development, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; Department of Orthodontics, School of Stomatology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xuepeng Chen
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Growth and Development, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; Department of Orthodontics, Hospital of Stomatology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kang Ting
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Growth and Development, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Xinli Zhang
- Section of Orthodontics, Division of Growth and Development, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.
| | - Chia Soo
- UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.
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14
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Shen J, James AW, Zhang X, Pang S, Zara JN, Asatrian G, Chiang M, Lee M, Khadarian K, Nguyen A, Lee KS, Siu RK, Tetradis S, Ting K, Soo C. Novel Wnt Regulator NEL-Like Molecule-1 Antagonizes Adipogenesis and Augments Osteogenesis Induced by Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2016; 186:419-34. [PMID: 26772960 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2015.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Revised: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The differentiation factor NEL-like molecule-1 (NELL-1) has been reported as osteoinductive in multiple in vivo preclinical models. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2 is used clinically for skeletal repair, but in vivo administration can induce abnormal, adipose-filled, poor-quality bone. We demonstrate that NELL-1 combined with BMP2 significantly optimizes osteogenesis in a rodent femoral segmental defect model by minimizing the formation of BMP2-induced adipose-filled cystlike bone. In vitro studies using the mouse bone marrow stromal cell line M2-10B4 and human primary bone marrow stromal cells have confirmed that NELL-1 enhances BMP2-induced osteogenesis and inhibits BMP2-induced adipogenesis. Importantly, the ability of NELL-1 to direct BMP2-treated cells toward osteogenesis and away from adipogenesis requires intact canonical Wnt signaling. Overall, these studies establish the feasibility of combining NELL-1 with BMP2 to improve clinical bone regeneration and provide mechanistic insight into canonical Wnt pathway activity during NELL-1 and BMP2 osteogenesis. The novel abilities of NELL-1 to stimulate Wnt signaling and to repress adipogenesis may highlight new treatment approaches for bone loss in osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Shen
- Division of Growth and Development and Section of Orthodontics, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, California; UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Aaron W James
- Division of Growth and Development and Section of Orthodontics, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, California; UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Xinli Zhang
- Division of Growth and Development and Section of Orthodontics, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, California; UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Shen Pang
- UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Janette N Zara
- Division of Growth and Development and Section of Orthodontics, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, California; UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Greg Asatrian
- Division of Growth and Development and Section of Orthodontics, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, California
| | - Michael Chiang
- Division of Growth and Development and Section of Orthodontics, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, California
| | - Min Lee
- Division of Advanced Prosthodontics, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, California
| | - Kevork Khadarian
- UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Alan Nguyen
- Division of Growth and Development and Section of Orthodontics, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, California
| | - Kevin S Lee
- Division of Growth and Development and Section of Orthodontics, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, California
| | - Ronald K Siu
- Division of Growth and Development and Section of Orthodontics, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, California
| | - Sotirios Tetradis
- Division of Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, California
| | - Kang Ting
- Division of Growth and Development and Section of Orthodontics, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, California.
| | - Chia Soo
- UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center at UCLA, Los Angeles, California.
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15
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Takahashi K, Imai A, Iijima M, Yoshimoto N, Maturana AD, Kuroda S, Niimi T. Mapping the heparin-binding site of the osteoinductive protein NELL1 by site-directed mutagenesis. FEBS Lett 2015; 589:4026-32. [PMID: 26627376 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2015.11.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2015] [Revised: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Neural epidermal growth factor-like (NEL)-like 1 (NELL1) is a secretory osteogenic protein comprising an N-terminal thrombospondin-1-like (TSPN) domain, four von Willebrand factor type C domains, and six epidermal growth factor-like repeats. NELL1 shows heparin-binding activity; however, the biological significance remains to be explored. In this report, we demonstrate that NELL1 binds to cell surface proteoglycans through its TSPN domain. Major heparin-binding sites were identified on the three-dimensional structural model of the TSPN domain of NELL1. Mutant analysis of the heparin-binding sites indicated that the heparin-binding activity of the TSPN domain is involved in interaction of NELL1 with cell surface proteoglycans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaneyoshi Takahashi
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Arisa Imai
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masumi Iijima
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Nobuo Yoshimoto
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Andrés D Maturana
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shun'ichi Kuroda
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan; The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Niimi
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan.
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16
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Abstract
Normal bone healing is a complex process that eventually restores original structure and function to the site of trauma. However, clinical circumstances such as nonunion, critical-sized defects, systemic bone disease, and fusion procedures have stimulated a search for ways to enhance this normal healing process. Biologics are an important part of this search and many, including bone marrow aspirate concentrate, demineralized bone matrix, platelet-rich plasma, bone morphogenic proteins, and platelet-derived growth factor, are currently in clinical use. Many others, including mesenchymal stem cells, parathyroid hormone, and Nel-like molecule-1 (NELL-1) will likely be in use in the future depending on the results of preclinical and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Smith
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Laboratory, Feinstein Institute for Medical Research and North Shore-LIJ Health System, Manhasset, NY, USA,
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17
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Zhang Y, Velasco O, Zhang X, Ting K, Soo C, Wu BM. Bioactivity and circulation time of PEGylated NELL-1 in mice and the potential for osteoporosis therapy. Biomaterials 2014; 35:6614-21. [PMID: 24818884 PMCID: PMC4077898 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2014.04.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 04/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Osteoporosis is a progressive bone disease due to low osteoblast activity and/or high osteoclast activity. NELL-1 is a potential therapy for osteoporosis because it specifically increases osteoblast differentiation. However, similar to other protein drugs, the bioavailability of NELL-1 may be limited by its in vivo half-life and rapid clearance from body. The purpose of the present study is to prolong NELL-1 circulation time in vivo by PEGylation with three monomeric PEG sizes (5, 20, 40 kDa). While linear PEG 5k yielded the most efficient PEGylation and the most thermally stable conjugate, linear PEG 20k resulted in the conjugate with the highest Mw and longest in vivo circulation. Compared to non-modified NELL-1, all three PEGylated conjugates showed enhanced thermal stability and each prolonged the in vivo circulation time significantly. Furthermore, PEGylated NELL-1 retained its osteoblastic activity without any appreciable cytotoxicity. These findings motivate further studies to evaluate the efficacy of PEGylated NELL-1 on the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulong Zhang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, and Division of Advanced Prosthodontics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Omar Velasco
- Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, and Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Xinli Zhang
- Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, and Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Kang Ting
- Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, and Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Chia Soo
- Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, and Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Benjamin M Wu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, and Division of Advanced Prosthodontics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, and Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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18
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Nakamura Y, Hasebe A, Takahashi K, Iijima M, Yoshimoto N, Maturana AD, Ting K, Kuroda S, Niimi T. Oligomerization-induced conformational change in the C-terminal region of Nel-like molecule 1 (NELL1) protein is necessary for the efficient mediation of murine MC3T3-E1 cell adhesion and spreading. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:9781-94. [PMID: 24563467 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.507020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
NELL1 is a large oligomeric secretory glycoprotein that functions as an osteoinductive factor. NELL1 contains several conserved domains, has structural similarities to thrombospondin 1, and supports osteoblastic cell adhesion through integrins. To define the structural requirements for NELL1-mediated cell adhesion, we prepared a series of recombinant NELL1 proteins (intact, deleted, and cysteine-mutant) from a mammalian expression system and tested their activities. A deletion analysis demonstrated that the C-terminal cysteine-rich region of NELL1 is critical for the cell adhesion activity of NELL1. Reducing agent treatment decreased the cell adhesion activity of full-length NELL1 but not of its C-terminal fragments, suggesting that the intramolecular disulfide bonds within this region are not functionally necessary but that other disulfide linkages in the N-terminal region of NELL1 may be involved in cell adhesion activity. By replacing cysteine residues with serines around the coiled-coil domain of NELL1, which is responsible for oligomerization, we created a mutant NELL1 protein that was unable to form homo-oligomers, and this monomeric mutant showed substantially lower cell adhesion activity than intact NELL1. These results suggest that an oligomerization-induced conformational change in the C-terminal region of NELL1 is important for the efficient mediation of cell adhesion and spreading by NELL1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Nakamura
- From the Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan and
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19
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Turner NJ, Londono R, Dearth CL, Culiat CT, Badylak SF. Human NELL1 protein augments constructive tissue remodeling with biologic scaffolds. Cells Tissues Organs 2013; 198:249-65. [PMID: 24335144 DOI: 10.1159/000356491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Biologic scaffolds composed of extracellular matrix (ECM) derived from decellularized tissues effectively reprogram key stages of the mammalian response to injury, altering the wound microenvironment from one that promotes scar tissue formation to one that stimulates constructive and functional tissue remodeling. In contrast, engineered scaffolds, composed of purified ECM components such as collagen, lack the complex ultrastructure and composition of intact ECM and may promote wound healing but lack factors that facilitate constructive and functional tissue remodeling. The objective of the present study was to test the hypothesis that addition of NELL1, a signaling protein that controls cell growth and differentiation, enhances the constructive tissue remodeling of a purified collagen scaffold. An abdominal wall defect model in the rat of 1.5-cm(2) partial thickness was used to compare the constructive remodeling of a bovine type I collagen scaffold to a biologic scaffold derived from small intestinal submucosa (SIS)-ECM with and without augmentation with 17 μg NELL1 protein. Samples were evaluated histologically at 14 days and 4 months. The contractile response of the defect site was also evaluated at 4 months. Addition of NELL1 protein improved the constructive remodeling of collagen scaffolds but not SIS-ECM scaffolds. Results showed an increase in the contractile force of the remodeled skeletal muscle and a fast:slow muscle composition similar to native tissue in the collagen-treated group. The already robust remodeling response to SIS-ECM was not enhanced by NELL1 at the dose tested. These findings suggest that NELL1 protein does contribute to the enhanced constructive remodeling of skeletal muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neill J Turner
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pa., USA
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20
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Askarinam A, James AW, Zara JN, Goyal R, Corselli M, Pan A, Liang P, Chang L, Rackohn T, Stoker D, Zhang X, Ting K, Péault B, Soo C. Human perivascular stem cells show enhanced osteogenesis and vasculogenesis with Nel-like molecule I protein. Tissue Eng Part A 2013; 19:1386-97. [PMID: 23406369 PMCID: PMC3638559 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2012.0367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2012] [Accepted: 01/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
An ideal mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) source for bone tissue engineering has yet to be identified. Such an MSC population would be easily harvested in abundance, with minimal morbidity and with high purity. Our laboratories have identified perivascular stem cells (PSCs) as a candidate cell source. PSCs are readily isolatable through fluorescent-activated cell sorting from adipose tissue and have been previously shown to be indistinguishable from MSCs in the phenotype and differentiation potential. PSCs consist of two distinct cell populations: (1) pericytes (CD146+, CD34-, and CD45-), which surround capillaries and microvessels, and (2) adventitial cells (CD146-, CD34+, and CD45-), found within the tunica adventitia of large arteries and veins. We previously demonstrated the osteogenic potential of pericytes by examining pericytes derived from the human fetal pancreas, and illustrated their in vivo trophic and angiogenic effects. In the present study, we used an intramuscular ectopic bone model to develop the translational potential of our original findings using PSCs (as a combination of pericytes and adventitial cells) from human white adipose tissue. We evaluated human PSC (hPSC)-mediated bone formation and vascularization in vivo. We also examined the effects of hPSCs when combined with the novel craniosynostosis-associated protein, Nel-like molecule I (NELL-1). Implants consisting of the demineralized bone matrix putty combined with NELL-1 (3 μg/μL), hPSC (2.5×10(5) cells), or hPSC+NELL-1, were inserted in the bicep femoris of SCID mice. Bone growth was evaluated using microcomputed tomography, histology, and immunohistochemistry over 4 weeks. Results demonstrated the osteogenic potential of hPSCs and the additive effect of hPSC+NELL-1 on bone formation and vasculogenesis. Comparable osteogenesis was observed with NELL-1 as compared to the more commonly used bone morphogenetic protein-2. Next, hPSCs induced greater implant vascularization than the unsorted stromal vascular fraction from patient-matched samples. Finally, we observed an additive effect on implant vascularization with hPSC+NELL-1 by histomorphometry and immunohistochemistry, accompanied by in vitro elaboration of vasculogenic growth factors. These findings hold significant implications for the cell/protein combination therapy hPSC+NELL-1 in the development of strategies for vascularized bone regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asal Askarinam
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute and Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Aaron W. James
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute and Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
- UCLA and Orthopaedic Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Janette N. Zara
- UCLA and Orthopaedic Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Raghav Goyal
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute and Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mirko Corselli
- UCLA and Orthopaedic Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Angel Pan
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute and Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Pei Liang
- UCLA and Orthopaedic Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Le Chang
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute and Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Todd Rackohn
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute and Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - David Stoker
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Xinli Zhang
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute and Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Kang Ting
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute and Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
- UCLA and Orthopaedic Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Bruno Péault
- UCLA and Orthopaedic Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Chia Soo
- UCLA and Orthopaedic Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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21
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Shen J, James AW, Chung J, Lee K, Zhang JB, Ho S, Lee KS, Kim TM, Niimi T, Kuroda S, Ting K, Soo C. NELL-1 promotes cell adhesion and differentiation via Integrinβ1. J Cell Biochem 2013; 113:3620-8. [PMID: 22807400 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.24253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
NELL-1 (Nel-like molecule-1) is a secreted osteogenic growth factor first identified in human craniosynostosis (CS) patients. NELL-1 protein has been observed to promote bone and cartilage differentiation and to suppress adipogenesis in both in vitro and in vivo models. Despite these findings, the cell surface receptors of NELL-1 have remained unknown. In this study, we observed for the first time that NELL-1 promotes cell adherence in multiple cell lines, including ST2, C3H10T1/2, M2-10B4, ATDC5, and MC3T3 cells. Additionally, we found that NELL-1 binds to extracellular Integrinβ1 and induces cell focal adhesion. By utilizing siRNA methods, we determined that NELL-1 cell surface binding and enhanced cell attachment were dependent on Integrinβ1 expression. Finally, we observed that pre-coating of culture dishes or PLGA (polylactic-co-glycolic acid) scaffold with NELL-1 resulted in a significant increase in both cell attachment and osteogenic differentiation. Our results identify for the first time a cell surface target of NELL-1, Integrinβ1, and elucidate new functions of NELL-1 in promoting cell adherence and osteogenic differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Shen
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute and Section of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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22
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Kwak J, Zara JN, Chiang M, Ngo R, Shen J, James AW, Le KM, Moon C, Zhang X, Gou Z, Ting K, Soo C. NELL-1 injection maintains long-bone quantity and quality in an ovariectomy-induced osteoporotic senile rat model. Tissue Eng Part A 2013; 19:426-36. [PMID: 23083222 PMCID: PMC3542871 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2012.0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2012] [Accepted: 08/24/2012] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Over 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, and is the predominant cause of fractures in the elderly. Treatment of fractures in the setting of osteoporosis is complicated by a suboptimal bone regenerative response due to a decline in the number of osteoblasts, their function, and survival. Consequently, an osteogenic therapeutic to prevent and treat fractures in patients with osteoporosis is needed. Nel-like molecule-1 (NELL-1), a novel osteoinductive growth factor, has been shown to promote bone regeneration. In this study, we aim to demonstrate the capacity of recombinant NELL-1 to prevent ovariectomy (OVX)-induced osteoporosis in a senile rat model. Ten-month-old female Sprague-Dawley rats underwent either sham surgery or OVX. Subsequently, 50 μL of 600 μg/mL NELL-1 lyophilized onto a 0-50-μm tricalcium phosphate (TCP) carrier was injected into the femoral bone marrow cavity while phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) control was injected into the contralateral femur. Our microcomputed tomography results showed that OVX+PBS/TCP control femurs showed a continuous decrease in the bone volume (BV) and bone mineral density (BMD) from 2 to 8 weeks post-OVX. In contrast, OVX+NELL-1/TCP femurs showed resistance to OVX-induced bone resorption showing BV and BMD levels similar to that of SHAM femurs at 8 weeks post-OVX. Histology showed increased endosteal-woven bone, as well as decreased adipocytes in the bone marrow of NELL-1-treated femurs compared to control. NELL-1-treated femurs also showed increased immunostaining for bone differentiation markers osteopontin and osteocalcin. These findings were validated in vitro, in which addition of NELL-1 in OVX bone marrow stem cells resulted in increased osteogenic differentiation. Thus, NELL-1 effectively enhances in situ osteogenesis in the bone marrow, making it potentially useful in the prevention and treatment of osteoporotic fractures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinny Kwak
- Section of Orthodontics School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Janette N. Zara
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Michael Chiang
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Richard Ngo
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jia Shen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Aaron W. James
- Section of Orthodontics School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Khoi M. Le
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Crystal Moon
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Xinli Zhang
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Zhongru Gou
- Zhejiang-California International NanoSystems Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kang Ting
- Section of Orthodontics School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Chia Soo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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23
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James AW. Review of Signaling Pathways Governing MSC Osteogenic and Adipogenic Differentiation. SCIENTIFICA 2013; 2013:684736. [PMID: 24416618 PMCID: PMC3874981 DOI: 10.1155/2013/684736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 309] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 11/21/2013] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are multipotent cells, functioning as precursors to a variety of cell types including adipocytes, osteoblasts, and chondrocytes. Between osteogenic and adipogenic lineage commitment and differentiation, a theoretical inverse relationship exists, such that differentiation towards an osteoblast phenotype occurs at the expense of an adipocytic phenotype. This balance is regulated by numerous, intersecting signaling pathways that converge on the regulation of two main transcription factors: peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor- γ (PPAR γ ) and Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2). These two transcription factors, PPAR γ and Runx2, are generally regarded as the master regulators of adipogenesis and osteogenesis. This review will summarize signaling pathways that govern MSC fate towards osteogenic or adipocytic differentiation. A number of signaling pathways follow the inverse balance between osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation and are generally proosteogenic/antiadipogenic stimuli. These include β -catenin dependent Wnt signaling, Hedgehog signaling, and NELL-1 signaling. However, other signaling pathways exhibit more context-dependent effects on adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation. These include bone morphogenic protein (BMP) signaling and insulin growth factor (IGF) signaling, which display both proosteogenic and proadipogenic effects. In summary, understanding those factors that govern osteogenic versus adipogenic MSC differentiation has significant implications in diverse areas of human health, from obesity to osteoporosis to regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron W. James
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, CHS A3-251, Los Angeles, CA 90077, USA
- *Aaron W. James:
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24
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James AW, Pang S, Askarinam A, Corselli M, Zara JN, Goyal R, Chang L, Pan A, Shen J, Yuan W, Stoker D, Zhang X, Adams JS, Ting K, Soo C. Additive effects of sonic hedgehog and Nell-1 signaling in osteogenic versus adipogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived stromal cells. Stem Cells Dev 2012; 21:2170-8. [PMID: 22264144 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2011.0461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A theoretical inverse relationship exists between osteogenic (bone forming) and adipogenic (fat forming) mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiation. This inverse relationship in theory partially underlies the clinical entity of osteoporosis, in which marrow MSCs have a preference for adipose differentiation that increases with age. Two pro-osteogenic cytokines have been recently studied that each also possesses antiadipogenic properties: Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) and NELL-1 proteins. In the present study, we assayed the potential additive effects of the biologically active N-terminus of SHH (SHH-N) and NELL-1 protein on osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of human primary adipose-derived stromal cell (hASCs). We observed that both recombinant SHH-N and NELL-1 protein significantly enhanced osteogenic differentiation and reduced adipose differentiation across all markers examined (alkaline phosphatase, Alizarin red and Oil red O staining, and osteogenic gene expression). Moreover, SHH-N and NELL-1 directed signaling produced additive effects on the pro-osteogenic and antiadipogenic differentiation of hASCs. NELL-1 treatment increased Hedgehog signaling pathway expression; coapplication of the Smoothened antagonist Cyclopamine reversed the pro-osteogenic effect of NELL-1. In summary, Hedgehog and Nell-1 signaling exert additive effects on the pro-osteogenic and antiadipogenic differentiation of ASCs. These studies suggest that the combination cytokines SHH-N+NELL-1 may represent a viable future technique for inducing the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron W James
- Section of Orthodontics, Dental and Craniofacial Research Institute, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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