Identification of small molecule activators of BMP signaling

Downregulated BMP-Smad1/5/8 signaling causes emphysema via dysfunction of alveolar type II epithelial cells

Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-Smad1/5/8 signaling plays a crucial regulatory role in lung development and adult lung homeostasis. However, it remains elusive whether BMP-Smad1/5/8 signaling is involved in the pathogenesis of emphysema. In this study, we downregulated BMP-Smad1/5/8 signaling by overexpressing its antagonist Noggin in adult mouse alveolar type II epithelial cells (AT2s), resulting in an emphysematous phenotype mimicking the typical pathological features of human emphysema, including distal airspace enlargement, pulmonary inflammation, extracellular matrix remodeling, and impaired lung function. Dysregulation of BMP-Smad1/5/8 signaling in AT2s leads to inflammatory destruction dominated by macrophage infiltration, associated with reduced secretion of surfactant proteins and inhibition of AT2 proliferation and differentiation. Reactivation of BMP-Smad1/5/8 signaling by genetics or chemotherapy significantly attenuated the morphology and pathophysiology of emphysema and improved the lung function in Noggin-overexpressing lungs. We also found that BMP-Smad1/5/8 signaling was downregulated in cigarette smoke-induced emphysema, and that enhancing its activity in AT2s prevented or even reversed emphysema in the mouse model. Our data suggest that BMP-Smad1/5/8 signaling, located at the top of the signaling cascade that regulates lung homeostasis, represents a key molecular regulator of alveolar stem cell secretory and regenerative function, and could serve as a potential target for future prevention and treatment of pulmonary emphysema. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.

Impaired bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathways disrupt decidualization in endometriosis

Endometriosis is linked to increased infertility and pregnancy complications due to defective endometrial decidualization. We hypothesized that identification of altered signaling pathways during decidualization could identify the underlying cause of infertility and pregnancy complications. Our study reveals that transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) pathways are impaired in the endometrium of individuals with endometriosis, leading to defective decidualization. Through detailed transcriptomic analyses, we discovered abnormalities in TGFβ signaling pathways and key regulators, such as SMAD4, in the endometrium of affected individuals. We also observed compromised activity of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP), a subset of the TGFβ family, that control endometrial receptivity. Using 3-dimensional models of endometrial stromal and epithelial assembloids, we showed that exogenous BMP2 improved decidual marker expression in individuals with endometriosis. Our findings reveal dysfunction of BMP/SMAD signaling in the endometrium of individuals with endometriosis, explaining decidualization defects and subsequent pregnancy complications in these individuals.

Identification of KU-55933 as an anti-atherosclerosis compound by using a hemodynamic-based high-throughput drug screening platform

Several compounds have been used for atherosclerosis treatment, including clinical trials; however, no anti-atherosclerotic drugs based on hemodynamic force-mediated atherogenesis have been discovered. Our previous studies demonstrated that "small mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 1/5" (Smad1/5) is a convergent signaling molecule for chemical [e.g., bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs)] and mechanical (e.g., disturbed flow) stimulations and hence may serve as a promising hemodynamic-based target for anti-atherosclerosis drug development. The goal of this study was to develop a high-throughput screening (HTS) platform to identify potential compounds that can inhibit disturbed flow- and BMP-induced Smad1/5 activation and atherosclerosis. Through HTS using a Smad1/5 downstream target inhibitor of DNA binding 1 (Id-1) as a luciferase reporter, we demonstrated that KU-55933 and Apicidin suppressed Id-1 expression in AD-293 cells. KU-55933 (10 μM), Apicidin (10 μM), and the combination of half doses of each [1/2(K + A)] inhibited disturbed flow- and BMP4-induced Smad1/5 activation in human vascular endothelial cells (ECs). KU-55933, Apicidin, and 1/2(K + A) treatments caused 50.6%, 47.4%, and 73.3% inhibitions of EC proliferation induced by disturbed flow, respectively, whereas EC inflammation was only suppressed by KU-55933 and 1/2(K + A), but not Apicidin alone. Administrations of KU-55933 and 1/2(K + A) to apolipoprotein E-deficient mice inhibited Smad1/5 activation in ECs in athero-susceptible regions, thereby suppressing endothelial proliferation and inflammation, with the attenuation of atherosclerotic lesions in these mice. A unique drug screening platform has been developed to demonstrate that KU-55933 and its combination with Apicidin are promising therapeutic compounds for atherosclerosis based on hemodynamic considerations.

Small-Molecule Probes as Pharmacological Tools for the Bone Morphogenetic Protein Signaling Pathway

The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) pathway is highly conserved and plays central roles in health and disease. The quality and quantity of its signaling outputs are regulated at multiple levels, offering pharmacological options for targeted modulation. Both target-centric and phenotypic drug discovery (PDD) approaches were applied to identify small-molecule BMP inhibitors and stimulators. In this Review, we accumulated and systematically classified the different reported chemotypes based on their targets as well as modes-of-action, and herein we illustrate the discovery history of selected candidates. A comprehensive summary of available biochemical, cellular, and in vivo activities is provided for the most relevant BMP modulators, along with recommendations on their preferred use as chemical probes to study BMP-related (patho)physiological processes. There are a number of high-quality probes used as BMP inhibitors that potently and selectively interrogate the kinase activities of distinct type I (16 chemotypes available) and type II receptors (3 chemotypes available). In contrast, only a few high-quality BMP stimulator modalities have been introduced to the field due to a lack of profound target knowledge. FK506-derived macrolides such as calcineurin-sparing FKBP12 inhibitors currently represent the best-characterized chemical tools for direct activation of BMP-SMAD signaling at the receptor level. However, several PDD campaigns succeeded in expanding the druggable space of BMP stimulators. Albeit the majority of them do not entirely fulfill the strict chemical probe criteria, many chemotypes exhibit unique and unrecognized mechanisms as pathway potentiators or synergizers, serving as valuable pharmacological tools for BMP perturbation.

Identification of Maleimide-Fused Carbazoles as Novel Noncanonical Bone Morphogenetic Protein Synergizers

Morphogenic signaling pathways govern embryonic development and tissue homeostasis on the cellular level. Precise control of such signaling events paves the way for innovative therapeutic approaches in the field of regenerative medicine. In line with these notions, bone morphogenic protein (BMP) is a major osteogenic driver and pharmacological stimulation of BMP signaling holds supreme potential for diseases and defects of the skeleton. Efforts to identify small-molecule modalities that activate or potentiate the BMP pathway have primarily been focused on the canonical signaling cascade. Here, we describe the phenotypic identification and development of specific carbazolomaleimides 2 as novel noncanonical BMP synergizers with submicromolar osteogenic cellular potency. The devised chemical tools are characterized to specifically regulate Id gene expression in a SMAD-independent, yet highly BMP-dependent fashion. Mechanistic studies revealed that GSK3 inhibition and increased β-catenin levels are partly responsible for this activity. The utility of the new BMP synergizer profile was further exemplified by showing how the synergistic action of canonical and noncanonical BMP enhancers additively amplifies BMP-dependent osteogenic outputs. Carbazolomaleimide 2b serves as a new and unique pharmacological tool for the modulation and study of the BMP pathway.

The Twofold Role of Osteogenic Small Molecules in Parkinson's Disease Therapeutics: Crosstalk of Osteogenesis and Neurogenesis

Deemed one of the most problematic neurodegenerative diseases in the elderly population, Parkinson's disease remains incurable to date. Ongoing diagnostic studies, however, have revealed that a large number of small molecule drugs that trigger the BMP2-Smad signaling pathway with an osteogenic nature may be effective in Parkinson's disease treatment. Although BMP2 and Smad1, 3, and 5 biomolecules promote neurite outgrowth and neuroprotection in dopaminergic cells as well, small molecules are quicker at crossing the BBB and reaching the damaged dopaminergic neurons located in the substantia nigra due to a molecular weight less than 500 Da. It is worth noting that osteogenic small molecules that inhibit Smurf1 phosphorylation do not offer therapeutic opportunities for Parkinson's disease; whereas, osteogenic small molecules that trigger Smad1, 3, and 5 phosphorylation may have strong therapeutic implications in Parkinson's disease by increasing the survival rate of dopaminergic cells and neuritogenesis. Notably, from a different perspective, it might be said that osteogenic small molecules can possibly put forth therapeutic options for Parkinson's disease by improving neuritogenesis and cell survival.

Achievements in Mesoporous Bioactive Glasses for Biomedical Applications

Nowadays, mesoporous bioactive glasses (MBGs) are envisaged as promising candidates in the field of bioceramics for bone tissue regeneration. This is ascribed to their singular chemical composition, structural and textural properties and easy-to-functionalize surface, giving rise to accelerated bioactive responses and capacity for local drug delivery. Since their discovery at the beginning of the 21st century, pioneering research efforts focused on the design and fabrication of MBGs with optimal compositional, textural and structural properties to elicit superior bioactive behavior. The current trends conceive MBGs as multitherapy systems for the treatment of bone-related pathologies, emphasizing the need of fine-tuning surface functionalization. Herein, we focus on the recent developments in MBGs for biomedical applications. First, the role of MBGs in the design and fabrication of three-dimensional scaffolds that fulfil the highly demanding requirements for bone tissue engineering is outlined. The different approaches for developing multifunctional MBGs are overviewed, including the incorporation of therapeutic ions in the glass composition and the surface functionalization with zwitterionic moieties to prevent bacterial adhesion. The bourgeoning scientific literature on MBGs as local delivery systems of diverse therapeutic cargoes (osteogenic/antiosteoporotic, angiogenic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antitumor agents) is addressed. Finally, the current challenges and future directions for the clinical translation of MBGs are discussed.

Discovery of a novel class of benzimidazoles as highly effective agonists of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) receptor signaling

Increasing or restoring Bone Morphogenetic Protein receptor signaling is an effective therapy for conditions such as bone fracture and pulmonary arterial hypertension. However, direct use of recombinant BMPs has encountered significant obstacles. Moreover, synthetic, full agonists of BMP receptor signaling have yet to be identified. Here, we report the discovery of a novel class of indolyl-benzimidazoles, synthesized using a one-pot synthetic methodology, which appear to mimic the biochemical and functional activity of BMPs. The first-in-series compounds, SY-LB-35 and SY-LB-57, stimulated significant increases in cell number and cell viability in the C2C12 myoblast cell line. Cell cycle analysis revealed that these compounds induced a shift toward proliferative phases. SY-LB-35 and SY-LB-57 stimulated canonical Smad and non-canonical PI3K/Akt, ERK, p38 and JNK intracellular signaling pathways, similar to BMP2-stimulated responses. Importantly, increases in Smad phosphorylation and cell viability were dependent on type I BMP receptor activity. Thus, these compounds robustly activate intracellular signaling in a BMP receptor-dependent manner and may signify the first known, full agonists of BMP receptor signaling. Moreover, discovery of small molecule activators of BMP pathways, which can be efficiently formulated and targeted to diseased or damaged areas, could potentially substitute recombinant BMPs for treatment of BMP-related pathologies.

A Process for the Design and Development of Novel Bone Morphogenetic Protein-7 (BMP-7) Mimetics With an Example: THR-184

Growth Factors have been evaluated as therapeutic targets for the treatment of a broad spectrum of diseases. Because they are proteins with pleiotropic effects, the quest to harness their beneficial effects has presented challenges. Most Growth Factors operate at the extracellular-receptor level and have natural feedback mechanisms that modulate their effects. As proteins, they are difficult and expensive to manufacture. Frequently proteins must be administered parenterally, may invoke an immune response, and may be neutralized by naturally occurring inhibitors. To circumvent these limitations, we have undertaken an effort to develop mimetics for the Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) signaling pathway effects that incorporate the beneficial effects, eliminate the deleterious effects, and thereby create effective drug-like compounds.To this end, we have designed and tested a family of small peptide BMP mimetics. The design used the three-dimensional structure of BMP-7 to identify likely active surface regions. Lead sequences were then optimized based on in vitro assays that examine the selective binding to BMP receptors, demonstrate the phosphorylation of Smad-1,5,8, detect anti-apoptosis and anti-inflammation, and block the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in renal tubular epithelial cells. These sequences were further optimized using in vivo assays of the attenuation of acute kidney injury in a rat-model of unilateral clamp ischemic reperfusion. This process uses a Structure Variance Analysis algorithm (SVA) to identify structure/activity relationships. One member of this family, THR-184, is an agonist of BMP signaling and a potent antagonist of TGFβ signaling. This small peptide mimetic inhibits inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis and reverses epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) by regulating multiple signaling pathways involved in the cellular injury of multiple organs. Its effects have been shown to control Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). THR-184 has progressed through phase I and II clinical trials for the prevention of Cardio-Vascular Surgery (CVS) associated AKI. This work provides a roadmap for the development of other growth factor mimetics and demonstrates how we might harness their therapeutic potential.

The CDK1/TFCP2L1/ID2 cascade offers a novel combination therapy strategy in a preclinical model of bladder cancer

Aberrant activation of embryogenesis-related molecular programs in urothelial bladder cancer (BC) is associated with stemness features related to oncogenic dedifferentiation and tumor metastasis. Recently, we reported that overexpression of transcription factor CP2-like protein-1 (TFCP2L1) and its phosphorylation at Thr177 by cyclin-dependent kinase-1 (CDK1) play key roles in regulating bladder carcinogenesis. However, the clinical relevance and therapeutic potential of this novel CDK1-TFCP2L1 molecular network remain elusive. Here, we demonstrated that inhibitor of DNA binding-2 (ID2) functions as a crucial mediator by acting as a direct repressive target of TFCP2L1 to modulate the stemness features and survival of BC cells. Low ID2 and high CDK1 expression were significantly associated with unfavorable clinical characteristics. TFCP2L1 downregulated ID2 by directly binding to its promoter region. Consistent with these findings, ectopic expression of ID2 or treatment with apigenin, a chemical activator of ID2, triggered apoptosis and impaired the proliferation, suppressed the stemness features, and reduced the invasive capacity of BC cells. Combination treatment with the specific CDK1 inhibitor RO-3306 and apigenin significantly suppressed tumor growth in an orthotopic BC xenograft animal model. This study demonstrates the biological role and clinical utility of ID2 as a direct target of the CDK1-TFCP2L1 pathway for modulating the stemness features of BC cells.

Combination therapy with apigenin, a powerful antioxidant found in plants such as parsley and camomile, and a drug that inhibits the cell cycle protein CDK1 shows promise for developing therapies for bladder cancer (BC). Switching on genes usually activated in stem cells can cause cancer, including BC. Although CDK1 was known to activate one of these genes in BC cells, no way to suppress the activation had been identified. Jinbeom Heo at University of Ulsan College of Medicine, South Korea, and coworkers investigated CDK1’s role in BC. They found that the transcription factor activated by CDK1 suppressed a protein, ID2, that suppressed stem cell-like characteristics. Simultaneously suppressing CDK1 and boosting ID2 with apigenin strongly repressed tumor growth in a mouse model. These results help point the way to developing new treatment options for BC patients.

3D-Printed composite scaffolds based on poly(ε-caprolactone) filled with poly(glutamic acid)-modified cellulose nanocrystals for improved bone tissue regeneration

The manufacturing of modern scaffolds with customized geometry and personalization has become possible due to the three-dimensional (3D) printing technique. A novel type of 3D-printed scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration based on poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) filled with nanocrystalline cellulose modified by poly(glutamic acid) (PGlu-NCC) has been proposed in this study. The 3D printing set-ups were optimized in order to obtain homogeneous porous scaffolds. Both polymer composites and manufactured 3D scaffolds have demonstrated mechanical properties suitable for a human trabecular bone. Compression moduli were in the range of 334-396 MPa for non-porous PCL and PCL-based composites, and 101-122 MPa for porous scaffolds made of the same materials. In vitro mineralization study with the use of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) revealed the larger Ca deposits on the surface of PCL/PGlu-NCC composite scaffolds. Implantation of the developed 3D scaffolds into femur of the rabbits was carried out to observe close and delayed effects. The histological analysis showed the lowest content of immune cells and thin fibrous capsule, revealing low toxicity of the PCL/PGlu-NCC scaffolds seeded with rabbit MSCs (rMSCs) to the surrounding tissues. The most pronounced result on the generation of new bone tissue after implantation of PCL/PGlu-NCC + rMSCs scaffolds was detected by both microcomputed tomography and histological analysis. Around 33% and 55% of bone coverage were detected for composite 3D scaffolds with adhered rMSCs after 1 and 3 months of implantation, respectively. This achievement can be a result of synergistic effect of PGlu, which attracts calcium ions, and stem cells with osteogenic potential.

Scale Development-Related Genes Identified by Transcriptome Analysis

Scales, as key structures of fish skin, play an important role in physiological function. The study of fish scale development mechanisms provides a basis for exploring the molecular-level developmental differences between scaled and non-scaled fishes. In this study, alizarin red staining was used to divide the different stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio) scale development. Four developmental stages, namely stage I (~17 dpf, scales have not started to grow), stage II (~33 dpf, the point at which scales start to grow), stage III (~41 dpf, the period in which the scales almost cover the whole body), and stage IV (~3 mpf, scales cover the whole body), were determined and used for subsequent transcriptome analysis. WGCNA (weighted correlation network analysis) and DEG (differentially expressed gene) analysis were used for screening the key genes. Based on the comparison between stage II and stage I, 54 hub-genes were identified by WGCNA analysis. Key genes including the Scpp family (Scpp7, Scpp6, Scpp5, and Scpp8), the Fgf family (Fgfr1b and Fgfr3), Tcf7, Wnt10b, Runx2b, and Il2rb were identified by DEG analysis, which indicated that these genes played important roles in the key nodes of scale development signal pathways. Combined with this analysis, the TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin, and FGF signaling pathways were suggested to be the most important signal pathways for scales starting to grow. This study laid a foundation for exploring the scale development mechanism of other fishes. The scale development candidate genes identified in the current study will facilitate functional gene identifications in the future.

Titanium with nanotopography attenuates the osteoclast-induced disruption of osteoblast differentiation by regulating histone methylation

The bone remodeling process is crucial for titanium (Ti) osseointegration and involves the crosstalk between osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Considering the high osteogenic potential of Ti with nanotopography (Ti Nano) and that osteoclasts inhibit osteoblast differentiation, we hypothesized that nanotopography attenuate the osteoclast-induced disruption of osteoblast differentiation. Osteoblasts were co-cultured with osteoclasts on Ti Nano and Ti Control and non-co-cultured osteoblasts were used as control. Gene expression analysis using RNAseq showed that osteoclasts downregulated the expression of osteoblast marker genes and upregulated genes related to histone modification and chromatin organization in osteoblasts grown on both Ti surfaces. Osteoclasts also inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of osteoblast markers, and such effect was attenuated by Ti Nano. Also, osteoclasts increased the protein expression of H3K9me2, H3K27me3 and EZH2 in osteoblasts grown on both Ti surfaces. ChIP assay revealed that osteoclasts increased accumulation of H3K27me3 that represses the promoter regions of Runx2 and Alpl in osteoblasts grown on Ti Control, which was reduced by Ti Nano. In conclusion, these data show that despite osteoclast inhibition of osteoblasts grown on both Ti Control and Ti Nano, the nanotopography attenuates the osteoclast-induced disruption of osteoblast differentiation by preventing the increase of H3K27me3 accumulation that represses the promoter regions of some key osteoblast marker genes. These findings highlight the epigenetic mechanisms triggered by nanotopography to protect osteoblasts from the deleterious effects of osteoclasts, which modulate the process of bone remodeling and may benefit the osseointegration of Ti implants.

Probing Embryonic Development Enables the Discovery of Unique Small-Molecule Bone Morphogenetic Protein Potentiators

We report on the feasibility to harness embryonic development in vitro for the identification of small-molecule cytokine mimetics and signaling activators. Here, a phenotypic, target-agnostic, high-throughput assay is presented that probes bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling during mesodermal patterning of embryonic stem cells. The temporal discrimination of BMP- and transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ)-driven stages of cardiomyogenesis underpins a selective, authentic orchestration of BMP cues that can be recapitulated for the discovery of BMP activator chemotypes. Proof of concept is shown from a chemical screen of 7000 compounds, provides a robust hit validation workflow, and afforded 2,3-disubstituted 4H-chromen-4-ones as potent BMP potentiators with osteogenic efficacy. Mechanistic studies suggest that Chromenone 1 enhances canonical BMP outputs at the expense of TGFβ-Smads in an unprecedented manner. Pharmacophoric features were defined, providing a set of novel chemical probes for various applications in (stem) cell biology, regenerative medicine, and basic research on the BMP pathway.

Chalcone-Supported Cardiac Mesoderm Induction in Human Pluripotent Stem Cells for Heart Muscle Engineering

Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) hold great promise for applications in cell therapy and drug screening in the cardiovascular field. Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) is key for early cardiac mesoderm induction in hPSC and subsequent cardiomyocyte derivation. Small-molecular BMP4 mimetics may help to standardize cardiomyocyte derivation from hPSCs. Based on observations that chalcones can stimulate BMP4 signaling pathways, we hypothesized their utility in cardiac mesoderm induction. To test this, we set up a two-tiered screening strategy, (1) for directed differentiation of hPSCs with commercially available chalcones (4'-hydroxychalcone [4'HC] and Isoliquiritigen) and 24 newly synthesized chalcone derivatives, and (2) a functional screen to assess the propensity of the obtained cardiomyocytes to self-organize into contractile engineered human myocardium (EHM). We identified 4'HC, 4-fluoro-4'-methoxychalcone, and 4-fluoro-4'-hydroxychalcone as similarly effective in cardiac mesoderm induction, but only 4'HC as an effective replacement for BMP4 in the derivation of contractile EHM-forming cardiomyocytes.

Utilizing Zebrafish Embryos to Reveal Disruptions in Dorsoventral Patterning

Dorsoventral (DV) patterning is a key landmark of embryonic development that is primarily regulated by bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling. Disruption of DV patterning can result in downstream effects on cell specification and organogenesis. Zebrafish embryos have been extensively used to understand signaling pathways that regulate DV patterning because zebrafish embryos develop ex utero and, in contrast to mammalian embryos, which develop in utero, can be observed in real time using brightfield and fluorescence microscopy. Embryos with disrupted DV patterning are either dorsalized or ventralized, with lack of development of head or trunk/tail structures, respectively. Although these phenotypes are typically accompanied by effects on BMP signaling, exceptions exist where some drugs or environmental chemicals can disrupt DV patterning in the absence of effects on BMP signaling. Therefore, assessments of DV patterning should be accompanied by BMP signaling-specific readouts to confirm the role of BMP disruption. Here, we describe an exposure paradigm and steps for phenotyping zebrafish embryos for two types of DV defects, dorsalization and ventralization, with a range of severities. In addition, we describe a strategy for whole-mount immunohistochemistry of zebrafish embryos with an antibody specific for phospho-SMAD 1/5/9 (pSMAD 1/5/9), as disruption in pSMAD 1/5/9 localization is indicative of an effect on BMP signaling. Taken together, these protocols describe an initial strategy for evaluating DV patterning defects under various experimental conditions and confirming BMP-mediated DV patterning disruptions, which can be followed by additional studies that aim to uncover mechanisms leading to these adverse phenotypes. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Phenotyping for dorsalization and ventralization Basic Protocol 2: Whole-mount immunohistochemistry with antibody to phospho-SMAD 1/5/9.

Phenotypic screen identifies calcineurin-sparing FK506 analogs as BMP potentiators for treatment of acute kidney injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a life-threatening disease with no known curative or preventive therapies. Data from multiple animal models and human studies have linked dysregulation of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling to AKI. Small molecules that potentiate endogenous BMP signaling should have a beneficial effect in AKI. We performed a high-throughput phenotypic screen and identified a series of FK506 analogs that act as potent BMP potentiators by sequestering FKBP12 from BMP type I receptors. We further showed that calcineurin inhibition was not required for this activity. We identified a calcineurin-sparing FK506 analog oxtFK through late-stage functionalization and structure-guided design. OxtFK demonstrated an improved safety profile in vivo relative to FK506. OxtFK stimulated BMP signaling in vitro and in vivo and protected the kidneys in an AKI mouse model, making it a promising candidate for future development as a first-in-class therapeutic for diseases with dysregulated BMP signaling.

Contrasting roles for BMP-4 and ventromorphins (BMP agonists) in TGFβ-induced lens EMT

Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling play opposing roles in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of lens epithelial cells, a cellular process integral to the pathogenesis of fibrotic cataract. We previously showed that BMP-7-induced Smad1/5 signaling blocks TGFβ-induced Smad2/3-signaling and EMT in rat lens epithelial cell explants. To further explore the antagonistic role of BMPs on TGFβ-signaling, we tested the capability of BMP-4 or newly described BMP agonists, ventromorphins, in blocking TGFβ-induced lens EMT. Primary rat lens epithelial explants were treated with exogenous TGFβ2 alone, or in combination with BMP-4 or ventromorphins. Treatment with TGFβ2 induced lens epithelial cells to undergo EMT and transdifferentiate into myofibroblastic cells with upregulated α-SMA and nuclear translocation of Smad2/3 immunofluorescence. BMP-4 was able to suppress this EMT without blocking TGFβ2-nuclear translocation of Smad2/3. In contrast, the BMP agonists, ventromorphins, were unable to block TGFβ2-induced EMT, despite a transient and early ability to significantly reduce TGFβ2-induced nuclear translocation of Smad2/3. This intriguing disparity highlights new complexities in the responsiveness of the lens to differing BMP-related signaling. Further research is required to better understand the antagonistic relationship between TGFβ and BMPs in lens EMT leading to cataract.

Investigating changes in calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and 25-hydroxy Vitamin D after surgical repair of fractures of femur or tibia

Background:

The recovery of long bones after fracture requires a specific process to restore the natural bone anatomy as well as its proper function. Changes in calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase and 25-hydroxy vitamin D can be justified either in the fracture process or in the repair procedure. The aim of this sectional study is to investigate changes in all these compounds after the surgical repair of fractures of femur and tibia bones.

Materials and Methods:

A random sample of 68 patients was selected from whom referring to a hospital with fractures of femur or tibia and candidate for repair surgery. The mentioned bone markers were measured at the time after surgery, six and twelve weeks after the surgery with laboratory-specific kits. A p-value, lower than 0.05, was considered to be statistically significant.

Result:

Of the patients, 34 were with fractures of femur and 34 were with fractures of tibia, equally. The patients were aged 2 to 69 with a mean age of 27.93 ± 14.8 years old. The means of calcium (p = 0.001) and phosphorus (p = 0.014) at three intervals were statistically significant difference. In contrast, the means serum alkaline phosphatase and vitamin D levels did not show any significant changes over time (p = 0.042).

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the means of calcium and phosphorus over the follow-up were statistically significant. The observed difference of vitamin D after the surgery, as well the level of alkaline phosphatase for femoral fracture between male and female are one of our important findings. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Enhanced asthma-related fibroblast to myofibroblast transition is the result of profibrotic TGF-β/Smad2/3 pathway intensification and antifibrotic TGF-β/Smad1/5/(8)9 pathway impairment

Airway remodelling with subepithelial fibrosis, which abolishes the physiological functions of the bronchial wall, is a major issue in bronchial asthma. Human bronchial fibroblasts (HBFs) derived from patients diagnosed with asthma display in vitro predestination towards TGF-β₁-induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition (FMT), a key event in subepithelial fibrosis. As commonly used anti-asthmatic drugs do not reverse the structural changes of the airways, and the molecular mechanism of enhanced asthma-related TGF-β₁-induced FMT is poorly understood, we investigated the balance between the profibrotic TGF-β/Smad2/3 and the antifibrotic TGF-β/Smad1/5/9 signalling pathways and its role in the myofibroblast formation of HBF populations derived from asthmatic and non-asthmatic donors. Our findings showed for the first time that TGF-β-induced activation of the profibrotic Smad2/3 signalling pathway was enhanced, but the activation of the antifibrotic Smad1/5/(8)9 pathway by TGF-β₁ was significantly diminished in fibroblasts from asthmatic donors compared to those from their healthy counterparts. The impairment of the antifibrotic TGF-β/Smad1/5/(8)9 pathway in HBFs derived from asthmatic donors was correlated with enhanced FMT. Furthermore, we showed that Smad1 silencing in HBFs from non-asthmatic donors increased the FMT potential in these cells. Additionally, we demonstrated that activation of antifibrotic Smad signalling via BMP7 or isoliquiritigenin [a small-molecule activator of the TGF-β/Smad1/5/(8)9 pathway] administration prevents FMT in HBFs from asthmatic donors through downregulation of profibrotic genes, e.g., α-SMA and fibronectin. Our data suggest that influencing the balance between the antifibrotic and profibrotic TGF-β/Smad signalling pathways using BMP7-mimetic compounds presents an unprecedented opportunity to inhibit subepithelial fibrosis during airway remodelling in asthma.

Bone morphogenetic protein receptors: Structure, function and targeting by selective small molecule kinase inhibitors

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are secreted cytokines that control the fate and function of many different cell types. They exert their cellular responses via heteromeric complexes of specific BMP type I and type II serine/threonine kinase receptors, e.g. BMPRIA and BMPRII. Three type II and four type I receptors, also termed activin receptor-like kinases (ALKs), have been identified. The constitutively active type II kinase phosphorylates the type I receptor, which upon activation initiates intracellular signaling by phosphorylating SMAD effectors. Auxiliary cell surface receptors without intrinsic enzymatic motifs, such as Endoglin and Repulsive guidance molecules (RGM), can fine-tune signaling by regulating the interaction of the BMP ligands with the BMPRs. The functional annotation of the BMPR encoding genes has helped to understand underlying mechanisms of diseases in which these genes are mutated. Loss of function mutations in BMPRII, Endoglin or RGMc are causally linked to pulmonary arterial hypertension, hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and juvenile hemochromatosis, respectively. In contrast, gain of function mutations in ACVR1, encoding ALK2, are linked to Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. Here, we discuss BMPR identification, structure and function in health and disease. Moreover, we highlight the therapeutic promise of small chemical compounds that act as selective BMPR kinase inhibitors to normalize overactive BMPR signaling.

Oxysterols as promising small molecules for bone tissue engineering: Systematic review

BACKGROUND

Bone tissue engineering is an area of continued interest within orthopaedic surgery, as it promises to create implantable bone substitute materials that obviate the need for autologous bone graft. Recently, oxysterols – oxygenated derivatives of cholesterol – have been proposed as a novel class of osteoinductive small molecules for bone tissue engineering. Here, we present the first systematic review of the in vivo evidence describing the potential therapeutic utility of oxysterols for bone tissue engineering.

AIM

To systematically review the available literature examining the effect of oxysterols on in vivo bone formation.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of the literature following PRISMA guidelines. Using the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science databases, we queried all publications in the English-language literature investigating the effect of oxysterols on in vivo bone formation. Articles were screened for eligibility using PICOS criteria and assessed for potential bias using an expanded version of the SYRCLE Risk of Bias assessment tool. All full-text articles examining the effect of oxysterols on in vivo bone formation were included. Extracted data included: Animal species, surgical/defect model, description of therapeutic and control treatments, and method for assessing bone growth. Primary outcome was fusion rate for spinal fusion models and percent bone regeneration for critical-sized defect models. Data were tabulated and described by both surgical/defect model and oxysterol employed. Additionally, data from all included studies were aggregated to posit the mechanism by which oxysterols may mediate in vivo bone formation.

RESULTS

Our search identified 267 unique articles, of which 27 underwent full-text review. Thirteen studies (all preclinical) met our inclusion/exclusion criteria. Of the 13 included studies, 5 employed spinal fusion models, 2 employed critical-sized alveolar defect models, and 6 employed critical-sized calvarial defect models. Based upon SYRCLE criteria, the included studies were found to possess an overall “unclear risk of bias”; 54% of studies reported treatment randomization and 38% reported blinding at any level. Overall, seven unique oxysterols were evaluated: 20(S)-hydroxycholesterol, 22(R)-hydroxycholesterol, 22(S)-hydroxycholesterol, Oxy4/Oxy34, Oxy18, Oxy21/Oxy133, and Oxy49. All had statistically significant in vivo osteoinductive properties, with Oxy4/Oxy34, Oxy21/Oxy133, and Oxy49 showing a dose-dependent effect in some cases. In the eight studies that directly compared oxysterols to rhBMP-2-treated animals, similar rates of bone growth occurred in the two groups. Biochemical investigation of these effects suggests that they may be primarily mediated by direct activation of Smoothened in the Hedgehog signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

Present preclinical evidence suggests oxysterols significantly augment in vivo bone formation. However, clinical trials are necessary to determine which have the greatest therapeutic potential for orthopaedic surgery patients.

Label-Free and Direct Visualization of Multivalent Binding of Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 with Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein

This work presents the first direct evidence of multivalent binding between bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) using high-resolution atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging. AFM topographic images reveal the molecular morphology of COMP, a pentameric protein whose five identical monomer units bundle together at N-termini, extending out with flexible chains to C-termini. Upon addition of BMP-2, COMP molecules undergo conformational changes at the C-termini to enable binding with BMP-2 molecules. AFM enables local structural changes of COMP to be revealed upon binding various numbers, 1-5, of BMP-2 molecules. These BMP-2/COMP complexes exhibit very different morphologies from those of COMP: much more compact and thus less flexible. These molecular-level insights deepen current understanding of the mechanism of how the BMP-2/COMP complex enhances osteogenesis among osteoprogenitor cells, i.e., multivalent presentation of BMP-2 via the stable and relatively rigid BMP-2/COMP complex could form a lattice of interaction between multiple BMP-2 and BMP-2 receptors. These ligand-receptor clusters lead to fast initiation and sustained activation of the Smad signaling pathway, resulting in enhanced osteogenesis. This work is also of translational importance as the outcome may enable use of lower BMP-2 dosage for bone repair and regeneration.

High-throughput screens for agonists of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling identify potent benzoxazole compounds

Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling is critical in renal development and disease. In animal models of chronic kidney disease (CKD), re-activation of BMP signaling is reported to be protective by promoting renal repair and regeneration. Clinical use of recombinant BMPs, however, requires harmful doses to achieve efficacy and is costly because of BMPs' complex synthesis. Therefore, alternative strategies are needed to harness the beneficial effects of BMP signaling in CKD. Key aspects of the BMP signaling pathway can be regulated by both extracellular and intracellular molecules. In particular, secreted proteins like noggin and chordin inhibit BMP activity, whereas kielin/chordin-like proteins (KCP) enhance it and attenuate kidney fibrosis or CKD. Clinical development of KCP, however, is precluded by its size and complexity. Therefore, we propose an alternative strategy to enhance BMP signaling by using small molecules, which are simpler to synthesize and more cost-effective. To address our objective, here we developed a small-molecule high-throughput screen (HTS) with human renal cells having an integrated luciferase construct highly responsive to BMPs. We demonstrate the activity of a potent benzoxazole compound, sb4, that rapidly stimulated BMP signaling in these cells. Activation of BMP signaling by sb4 increased the phosphorylation of key second messengers (SMAD-1/5/9) and also increased expression of direct target genes (inhibitors of DNA binding, Id1 and Id3) in canonical BMP signaling. Our results underscore the feasibility of utilizing HTS to identify compounds that mimic key downstream events of BMP signaling in renal cells and have yielded a lead BMP agonist.

In Vitro Osteogenic Differentiation and Antibacterial Potentials of Chalcone Derivatives

Chalcone derivatives have been investigated as therapeutic agents for the anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory fields. In this study, we have synthesized four different types of chalcone derivatives and demonstrated in vitro bioactivities. We divided these derivatives into two groups of chalcones on the basis of similar substituents on the aromatic rings, and we tested cell viability and proliferation potentials, which indicated that the methoxy substituent on the A ring could enhance cytotoxicity and antiproliferation potential depending on the chalcone concentration. We also investigated osteogenic differentiation of C2C12 cells by ALP staining, the early marker for osteogenesis, which demonstrated that the chalcones could not only induce activity of BMP-2 but also inhibit the activity of noggin, a BMP antagonist. In addition, chalcone bearing hydroxyl groups at the 2-, 4-, and 6-position on the A ring inhibited treptococcus mutans growth, a major causative agent of dental caries. Therefore, we concluded that the chalcone derivatives synthesized in this research can be good candidates for therapeutic agents promoting bone differentiation, with an expectation of inhibiting S. mutans, in dentistry.

Current advances for bone regeneration based on tissue engineering strategies

Bone tissue engineering (BTE) is a rapidly developing strategy for repairing critical-sized bone defects to address the unmet need for bone augmentation and skeletal repair. Effective therapies for bone regeneration primarily require the coordinated combination of innovative scaffolds, seed cells, and biological factors. However, current techniques in bone tissue engineering have not yet reached valid translation into clinical applications because of several limitations, such as weaker osteogenic differentiation, inadequate vascularization of scaffolds, and inefficient growth factor delivery. Therefore, further standardized protocols and innovative measures are required to overcome these shortcomings and facilitate the clinical application of these techniques to enhance bone regeneration. Given the deficiency of comprehensive studies in the development in BTE, our review systematically introduces the new types of biomimetic and bifunctional scaffolds. We describe the cell sources, biology of seed cells, growth factors, vascular development, and the interactions of relevant molecules. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges and perspectives that may propel the direction of future clinical delivery in bone regeneration.

Impairing Powerhouse in Colon Cancer Cells by Hydrazide-Hydrazone-Based Small Molecule

Mitochondrion has emerged as one of the unconventional targets in next-generation cancer therapy. Hence, small molecules targeting mitochondria in cancer cells have immense potential in the next-generation anticancer therapeutics. In this report, we have synthesized a library of hydrazide-hydrazone-based small molecules and identified a novel compound that induces mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization by inhibiting antiapoptotic B-cell CLL/lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) family proteins followed by sequestration of proapoptotic cytochrome c. The new small molecule triggered programmed cell death (early and late apoptosis) through cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase and caspase-9/3 cleavage in HCT-116 colon cancer cells, confirmed by an array of fluorescence confocal microscopy, cell sorting, and immunoblotting analysis. Furthermore, cell viability studies have verified that the small molecule rendered toxicity to a panel of colon cancer cells (HCT-116, DLD-1, and SW-620), keeping healthy L929 fibroblast cells unharmed. The novel small molecule has the potential to form a new understudied class of mitochondria targeting anticancer agent.

Molecular docking based screening of Noggin inhibitors

Noggin (NOG) a BMP (bone morphogenetic protein) antagonist plays a key role in preferentially driving a subset of breast cancer cells towards the bone and causing osteolytic lesions leading to severe pain and discomfort in the patients. Owing to its role in bone metastasis, NOG could be promising molecular target in bone metastasis and that identifying small molecule inhibitors could aid in the treatment. Towards identifying cognate inhibitors of NOG, structure based virtual screen was employed. A total of 8.5 million ligands from e-molecule database were screened at a novel binding site on NOG identified by the Sitemap tool, employing GLIDE algorithm. Potential eight molecules were selected based on the Glide score, binding mode and H-bond interactions. Free energy of binding was calculated using Molecular mechanics based MMGBSA and the obtained energy was used in the prioritizing the compounds with the similar structures and glide score. Further, the compounds were evaluated for their druggability employing physico-chemical property analysis. Our study helped in identifying novel potential NOG inhibitors that can further be validated using in-vivo and in-vitro studies and these molecules can also be employed as tool compounds to study the functions of BMP.

Unidirectional BMP2-loaded collagen scaffolds induce chondrogenic differentiation

Microfracture surgery may be improved by the implantation of unidirectional collagen scaffolds that provide a template for mesenchymal stem cells to regenerate cartilage. Incorporation of growth factors in unidirectional scaffolds may further enhance cartilage regeneration. In scaffolds, immobilization of growth factors is required to prolong in vivo activity, to limit diffusion and to reduce the amount of growth factor needed for safe clinical application. We investigated the immobilization of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) to unidirectional collagen scaffolds and the effect on in vitro chondrogenesis. C3H10T1/2 cells were seeded on unidirectional collagen scaffolds with and without covalently attached heparin, and with and without incubation with BMP2 (1 and 10 μg), or with BMP2 present in the culture medium (10-200 ng ml^-1). Culturing was for 2 weeks and readout parameters included histology, immunohistochemistry, biochemical analysis and molecular biological analysis. The unidirectional pores facilitated the distribution of C3H10T1/2 cells and matrix formation throughout scaffolds. The effective dose of medium supplementation with BMP2 was 100 ng ml^-1 (total exposure 1 μg BMP2), and similar production of cartilage-specific molecules chondroitin sulfate (CS) and type II collagen was found for scaffolds pre-incubated with 10 μg BMP2. Pre-incubation with 1 μg BMP2 resulted in less cartilage matrix formation. The conjugation of heparin to the scaffolds resulted in more CS and less type II collagen deposition compared to scaffolds without heparin. In conclusion, unidirectional collagen scaffolds pre-incubated with 10 μg BMP2 supported chondrogenesis in vitro and may be suitable for prolonged cartilage matrix synthesis in vivo.

Alteration of RNA Splicing by Small-Molecule Inhibitors of the Interaction between NHP2L1 and U4

Splicing is an important eukaryotic mechanism for expanding the transcriptome and proteome, influencing a number of biological processes. Understanding its regulation and identifying small molecules that modulate this process remain a challenge. We developed an assay based on time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) to detect the interaction between the protein NHP2L1 and U4 RNA, which are two key components of the spliceosome. We used this assay to identify small molecules that interfere with this interaction in a high-throughput screening (HTS) campaign. Topotecan and other camptothecin derivatives were among the top hits. We confirmed that topotecan disrupts the interaction between NHP2L1 and U4 by binding to U4 and inhibits RNA splicing. Our data reveal new functions of known drugs that could facilitate the development of therapeutic strategies to modify splicing and alter gene function.

BMP7-induced-Pten inhibits Akt and prevents renal fibrosis

Bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7) counteracts pro-fibrotic effects of TGFβ₁ in cultured renal cells and protects from fibrosis in acute and chronic renal injury models. Using the unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model of chronic renal fibrosis, we investigated the effect of exogenous-rhBMP-7 on pro-fibrotic signaling pathways mediated by TGFβ₁ and hypoxia. Mice undergoing UUO were treated with vehicle or rhBMP-7 (300μg/kg i.p.) every other day for eight days and kidneys analysed for markers of fibrosis and SMAD, MAPK, and PI3K signaling. In the kidney, collecting duct and tubular epithelial cells respond to BMP-7 via activation of SMAD1/5/8. Phosphorylation of SMAD1/5/8 was reduced in UUO kidneys from vehicle-treated animals yet maintained in UUO kidneys from BMP-7-treated animals, confirming renal bioactivity of exogenous rhBMP-7. BMP-7 inhibited Collagen Iα1 and Collagen IIIα1 gene expression and Collagen I protein accumulation, while increasing expression of Collagen IVα1 in UUO kidneys. Activation of SMAD2, SMAD3, ERK, p38 and PI3K/Akt signaling occurred during fibrogenesis and BMP-7 significantly attenuated SMAD3 and Akt signaling in vivo. Analysis of renal collecting duct (mIMCD) and tubular epithelial (HK-2) cells stimulated with TGFβ₁ or hypoxia (1% oxygen) to activate Akt provided further evidence that BMP-7 specifically inhibited PI3K/Akt signaling. PTEN is a negative regulator of PI3K and BMP-7 increased PTEN expression in vivo and in vitro. These data demonstrate an important mechanism by which BMP-7 orchestrates renal protection through Akt inhibition and highlights Akt inhibitors as anti-fibrotic therapeutics.

Intracellular co-delivery of Sr ion and phenamil drug through mesoporous bioglass nanocarriers synergizes BMP signaling and tissue mineralization

Inducing differentiation and maturation of resident multipotent stem cells (MSCs) is an important strategy to regenerate hard tissues in mal-calcification conditions. Here we explore a co-delivery approach of therapeutic molecules comprised of ion and drug through a mesoporous bioglass nanoparticle (MBN) for this purpose. Recently, MBN has offered unique potential as a nanocarrier for hard tissues, in terms of high mesoporosity, bone bioactivity (and possibly degradability), tunable delivery of biomolecules, and ionic modification. Herein Sr ion is structurally doped to MBN while drug Phenamil is externally loaded as a small molecule activator of BMP signaling, for the stimulation of osteo/odontogenesis and mineralization of human MSCs derived from dental pulp. The Sr-doped MBN (85Si:10Ca:5Sr) sol-gel processed presents a high mesoporosity with a pore size of ∼6nm. In particular, Sr ion is released slowly at a daily rate of ∼3ppm per mg nanoparticles for up to 7days, a level therapeutically effective for cellular stimulation. The Sr-MBN is internalized to most MSCs via an ATP dependent macropinocytosis within hours, increasing the intracellular levels of Sr, Ca and Si ions. Phenamil is loaded maximally ∼30% into Sr-MBN and then released slowly for up to 7days. The co-delivered molecules (Sr ion and Phenamil drug) have profound effects on the differentiation and maturation of cells, i.e., significantly enhancing expression of osteo/odontogenic genes, alkaline phosphatase activity, and mineralization of cells. Of note, the stimulation is a result of a synergism of Sr and Phenamil, through a Trb3-dependent BMP signaling pathway. This biological synergism is further evidenced in vivo in a mal-calcification condition involving an extracted tooth implantation in dorsal subcutaneous tissues of rats. Six weeks post operation evidences the osseous-dentinal hard tissue formation, which is significantly stimulated by the Sr/Phenamil delivery, based on histomorphometric and micro-computed tomographic analyses. The bioactive nanoparticles releasing both Sr ion and Phenamil drug are considered to be a promising therapeutic nanocarrier platform for hard tissue regeneration. Furthermore, this novel ion/drug co-delivery concept through nanoparticles can be extensively used for other tissues that require different therapeutic treatment.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

This study reports a novel design concept in inorganic nanoparticle delivery system for hard tissues - the co-delivery of therapeutic molecules comprised of ion (Sr) and drug (Phenamil) through a unique nanoparticle of mesoporous bioactive glass (MBN). The physico-chemical and biological properties of MBN enabled an effective loading of both therapeutic molecules and a subsequently sustained/controlled release. The co-delivered Sr and Phenamil demonstrated significant stimulation of adult stem cell differentiation in vitro and osseous/dentinal regeneration in vivo, through BMP signaling pathways. We consider the current combination of Sr ion with Phenamil is suited for the osteo/odontogenesis of stem cells for hard tissue regeneration, and further, this ion/drug co-delivery concept can extend the applications to other areas that require specific cellular and tissue functions.

Ventromorphins: A New Class of Small Molecule Activators of the Canonical BMP Signaling Pathway

Here, we describe three new small-molecule activators of BMP signaling found by high throughput screening of a library of ∼600 000 small molecules. Using a cell-based luciferase assay in the BMP4-responsive human cervical carcinoma clonal cell line, C33A-2D2, we identified three compounds with similar chemotypes that each ventralize zebrafish embryos and stimulate increased expression of the BMP target genes, bmp2b and szl. Because these compounds ventralize zebrafish embryos, we have termed them "ventromorphins." As expected for a BMP pathway activator, they induce the differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts to osteoblasts. Affymetrix RNA analysis confirmed the differentiation results and showed that ventromorphins treatment elicits a genetic response similar to BMP4 treatment. Unlike isoliquiritigenin (SJ000286237), a flavone that maximally activates the pathway after 24 h of treatment, all three ventromorphins induced SMAD1/5/8 phosphorylation within 30 min of treatment and achieved peak activity within 1 h, indicating that their responses are consistent with directly activating BMP signaling.

Acceleration of osteoblast differentiation by a novel osteogenic compound, DMP-PYT, through activation of both the BMP and Wnt pathways

Osteoblast differentiation is regulated through the successive activation of signaling molecules by a complex interplay of extracellular signals such as bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and Wnt ligands. Numerous studies have identified natural as well as synthetic compounds with osteogenic activity through the regulation of either BMP/SMADs or the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Here, we attempted to isolate small molecules that concurrently activated both SMADs and β-catenin, which led to the discovery of a novel potent osteogenic compound, DMP-PYT. Upon BMP2 stimulation, DMP-PYT substantially increased osteoblast differentiation featured by enhanced expression of osteoblast-specific genes and accelerated calcification through activation of BMPs expression. DMP-PYT promoted BMP2-induced SMAD1/5/8 phosphorylation and β-catenin expression, the latter in a BMP2-independent manner. DMP-PYT alone enhanced nuclear localization of β-catenin to promote the DNA-binding and transcriptional activity of T-cell factor, thereby resulting in increased osteoblast differentiation in the absence of BMP2. Most importantly, DMP-PYT advanced skeletal development and bone calcification in zebrafish larvae. Conclusively, DMP-PYT strongly stimulated osteoblast differentiation and bone formation in vitro and in vivo by potentiating BMP2-induced activation of SMADs and β-catenin. These results suggest that DMP-PYT may have beneficial effects for preventing and for treating osteoporosis.

A synthetic BMP-2 mimicking peptide induces glioblastoma stem cell differentiation

BACKGROUND

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive type of primary brain tumor, characterized by the intrinsic resistance to chemotherapy due to the presence of a highly aggressive Cancer Stem Cell (CSC) sub-population. In this context, Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMPs) have been demonstrated to induce CSC differentiation and to sensitize GBM cells to treatments.

METHODS

The BMP-2 mimicking peptide, named GBMP1a, was synthesized on solid-phase by Fmoc chemistry. Structural characterization and prediction of receptor binding were obtained by Circular Dicroism (CD) and NRM analyses. Activation of BMP signalling was evaluated by a luciferase reporter assay and western blot. Pro-differentiating effects of GBMP1a were verified by immunostaining and neurosphere assay in primary glioblastoma cultures.

RESULTS

CD and NMR showed that GBMP1a correctly folds into expected tridimensional structures and predicted its binding to BMPR-IA to the same epitope as in the native complex. Reporter analysis disclosed that GBMP1a is able to activate BMP signalling in GBM cells. Moreover, BMP-signalling activation was specifically dependent on smad1/5/8 phosphorylation. Finally, we confirmed that GBMP1a treatment is sufficient to enhance osteogenic differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and to induce astroglial differentiation of glioma stem cells (GSCs) in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

GBMP1a was demonstrated to be a good inducer of GSC differentiation, thus being considered a potential anti-cancer tool to be further developed for GBM treatment.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

These data highlight the role of BMP-mimicking peptides as potential anti-cancer agents against GBM and stimulate the further development of GBMP1a-based structures in order to enhance its stability and activity.

SMOC can act as both an antagonist and an expander of BMP signaling

The matricellular protein SMOC (Secreted Modular Calcium binding protein) is conserved phylogenetically from vertebrates to arthropods. We showed previously that SMOC inhibits bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling downstream of its receptor via activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling. In contrast, the most prominent effect of the Drosophila orthologue, pentagone (pent), is expanding the range of BMP signaling during wing patterning. Using SMOC deletion constructs we found that SMOC-∆EC, lacking the extracellular calcium binding (EC) domain, inhibited BMP2 signaling, whereas SMOC-EC (EC domain only) enhanced BMP2 signaling. The SMOC-EC domain bound HSPGs with a similar affinity to BMP2 and could expand the range of BMP signaling in an in vitro assay by competition for HSPG-binding. Together with data from studies in vivo we propose a model to explain how these two activities contribute to the function of Pent in Drosophila wing development and SMOC in mammalian joint formation.

Wdr68 Mediates Dorsal and Ventral Patterning Events for Craniofacial Development

Birth defects are among the leading causes of infant mortality and contribute substantially to illness and long-term disability. Defects in Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) signaling are associated with cleft lip/palate. Many craniofacial syndromes are caused by defects in signaling pathways that pattern the cranial neural crest cells (CNCCs) along the dorsal-ventral axis. For example, auriculocondylar syndrome is caused by impaired Endothelin-1 (Edn1) signaling, and Alagille syndrome is caused by defects in Jagged-Notch signaling. The BMP, Edn1, and Jag1b pathways intersect because BMP signaling is required for ventral edn1 expression that, in turn, restricts jag1b to dorsal CNCC territory. In zebrafish, the scaffolding protein Wdr68 is required for edn1 expression and subsequent formation of the ventral Meckel’s cartilage as well as the dorsal Palatoquadrate. Here we report that wdr68 activity is required between the 17-somites and prim-5 stages, that edn1 functions downstream of wdr68, and that wdr68 activity restricts jag1b, hey1, and grem2 expression from ventral CNCC territory. Expression of dlx1a and dlx2a was also severely reduced in anterior dorsal and ventral 1^st arch CNCC territory in wdr68 mutants. We also found that the BMP agonist isoliquiritigenin (ISL) can partially rescue lower jaw formation and edn1 expression in wdr68 mutants. However, we found no significant defects in BMP reporter induction or pSmad1/5 accumulation in wdr68 mutant cells or zebrafish. The Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway is also known to be important for craniofacial development and can interfere with BMP signaling. Here we further report that TGF-β interference with BMP signaling was greater in wdr68 mutant cells relative to control cells. To determine whether interference might also act in vivo, we treated wdr68 mutant zebrafish embryos with the TGF-β signaling inhibitor SB431542 and found partial rescue of edn1 expression and craniofacial development. While ISL treatment failed, SB431542 partially rescued dlx2a expression in wdr68 mutants. Together these findings reveal an indirect role for Wdr68 in the BMP-Edn1-Jag1b signaling hierarchy and dorso-anterior expression of dlx1a/2a.

Discovery of a Small-Molecule BMP Sensitizer for Human Embryonic Stem Cell Differentiation

Sorely missing from the "toolkit" for directed differentiation of stem/progenitor cells are agonists of the BMP-signaling pathway. Using a high-throughput chemical screen, we discovered that PD407824, a checkpoint kinase 1 (CHK1) inhibitor, increases the sensitivity of cells to sub-threshold amounts of BMP4. We show utility of the compound in the directed differentiation of human embryonic stem cells toward mesoderm or cytotrophoblast stem cells. Blocking CHK1 activity using pharmacological compounds or CHK1 knockout using single guide RNA (sgRNA) confirmed that CHK1 inhibition increases the sensitivity to BMP4 treatment. Additional mechanistic studies indicate that CHK1 inhibition depletes p21 levels, thereby activating CDK8/9, which then phosphorylates the SMAD2/3 linker region, leading to decreased levels of SMAD2/3 protein and enhanced levels of nuclear SMAD1. This study provides insight into mechanisms controlling the BMP/transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathways and a useful pharmacological reagent for directed differentiation of stem cells.

Pre-equilibration kinetic size-exclusion chromatography with mass spectrometry detection (peKSEC-MS) for label-free solution-based kinetic analysis of protein-small molecule interactions

Here we introduce pre-equilibration kinetic size-exclusion chromatography with mass-spectrometry detection (peKSEC-MS), which is a label-free solution-based kinetic approach for characterizing non-covalent protein-small molecule interactions. In this method, a protein and a small molecule are mixed outside the column and incubated to approach equilibrium. The equilibrium mixture is then introduced into the SEC column to initiate the dissociation process by separating small molecules from the complex inside the column. A numerical model of a 1-dimensional separation was constructed to simulate mass chromatograms of the small molecule for varying rate constants of binding.

A Bmp Reporter Transgene Mouse Embryonic Stem Cell Model as a Tool to Identify and Characterize Chemical Teratogens

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) were first isolated from mouse embryos more than 30 years ago. They have proven invaluable not only in generating genetically modified mice that allow for analysis of gene function in tissue development and homeostasis but also as models for genetic disease. In addition, ESCs in vitro are finding inroads in pharmaceutical and toxicological testing, including the identification of teratogenic compounds. Here, we describe the use of a bone morphogenetic protein (Bmp)-reporter ESC line, isolated from a well-characterized transgenic mouse line, as a new tool for the identification of chemical teratogens. The Bmp-mediated expression of the green fluorescent protein enabled the quantification of dose- and time-dependent effects of valproic acid as well as retinoic acid. Significant effects were detectable at concentrations that were comparable to the ones observed in the classical embryonic stem cell test, despite the fact that the reporter gene is expressed in distinct cell types, including endothelial and endodermal cells. Thus these cells provide a valuable new tool for the identification and characterization of relevant mechanisms of embryonic toxicity.

Quinoline compound KM11073 enhances BMP-2-dependent osteogenic differentiation of C2C12 cells via activation of p38 signaling and exhibits in vivo bone forming activity

Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein (rhBMP)-2 has been approved by the FDA for clinical application, but its use is limited due to high cost and a supra-physiological dose for therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, recent studies have focused on the generation of new therapeutic small molecules to induce bone formation or potentiate the osteogenic activity of BMP-2. Here, we show that [4-(7-chloroquinolin-4-yl) piperazino][1-phenyl-5-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazol-4-yl]methanone (KM11073) strongly enhances the BMP-2-stimulated induction of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), an early phase biomarker of osteoblast differentiation, in bi-potential mesenchymal progenitor C2C12 cells. The KM11073-mediated ALP induction was inhibited by the BMP antagonist noggin, suggesting that its osteogenic activity occurs via BMP signaling. In addition, a pharmacological inhibition study suggested the involvement of p38 activation in the osteogenic action of KM11073 accompanied by enhanced expression of BMP-2, -6, and -7 mRNA. Furthermore, the in vivo osteogenic activity of KM11073 was confirmed in zebrafish and mouse calvarial bone formation models, suggesting the possibility of its single use for bone formation. In conclusion, the combination of rhBMP-2 with osteogenic small molecules could reduce the use of expensive rhBMP-2, mitigating the undesirable side effects of its supra-physiological dose for therapeutic efficacy. Moreover, due to their inherent physical properties, small molecules could represent the next generation of regenerative medicine.

Bone morphogenetic proteins: a powerful osteoinductive compound with non-negligible side effects and limitations

Healing and regeneration of large bone defects leading to non-unions is a great concern in orthopedic surgery. Since auto- and allografts have limitations, bone tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (TERM) has attempted to solve this issue. In TERM, healing promotive factors are necessary to regulate the several important events during healing. An ideal treatment strategy should provide osteoconduction, osteoinduction, osteogenesis, and osteointegration of the graft or biomaterials within the healing bone. Since many materials have osteoconductive properties, only a few biomaterials have osteoinductive properties which are important for osteogenesis and osteointegration. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are potent inductors of the osteogenic and angiogenic activities during bone repair. The BMPs can regulate the production and activity of some growth factors which are necessary for the osteogenesis. Since the introduction of BMP, it has added a valuable tool to the surgeon's possibilities and is most commonly used in bone defects. Despite significant evidences suggesting their potential benefit on bone healing, there are some evidences showing their side effects such as ectopic bone formation, osteolysis and problems related to cost effectiveness. Bone tissue engineering may create a local environment, using the delivery systems, which enables BMPs to carry out their activities and to lower cost and complication rate associated with BMPs. This review represented the most important concepts and evidences regarding the role of BMPs on bone healing and regeneration from basic to clinical application. The major advantages and disadvantages of such biologic compounds together with the BMPs substitutes are also discussed.

Cellular behavior as a dynamic field for exploring bone bioengineering: a closer look at cell-biomaterial interface

Bone is a highly dynamic and specialized tissue, capable of regenerating itself spontaneously when afflicted by minor injuries. Nevertheless, when major lesions occur, it becomes necessary to use biomaterials, which are not only able to endure the cellular proliferation and migration, but also to substitute the original tissue or integrate itself to it. With the life expectancy growth, regenerative medicine has been gaining constant attention in the reconstructive field of dentistry and orthopedy. Focusing on broadening the therapeutic possibilities for the regeneration of injured organs, the development of biomaterials allied with the applicability of gene therapy and bone bioengineering has been receiving vast attention over the recent years. The progress of cellular and molecular biology techniques gave way to new-guided therapy possibilities. Supported by multidisciplinary activities, tissue engineering combines the interaction of physicists, chemists, biologists, engineers, biotechnologist, dentists and physicians with common goals: the search for materials that could promote and lead cell activity. A well-oriented combining of scaffolds, promoting factors, cells, together with gene therapy advances may open new avenues to bone healing in the near future. In this review, our target was to write a report bringing overall concepts on tissue bioengineering, with a special attention to decisive biological parameters for the development of biomaterials, as well as to discuss known intracellular signal transduction as a new manner to be explored within this field, aiming to predict in vitro the quality of the host cell/material and thus contributing with the development of regenerative medicine.

Small molecule delivery through nanofibrous scaffolds for musculoskeletal regenerative engineering

Musculoskeletal regenerative engineering approach using small bioactive molecules in conjunction with advanced materials has emerged as a highly promising strategy for musculoskeletal repair and regeneration. Advanced biomaterials technologies have revealed nanofiber-based scaffolds for musculoskeletal tissue engineering as vehicles for the controlled delivery of small molecule drugs. This review article highlights recent advances in nanofiber-based delivery of small molecules for musculoskeletal regenerative engineering. The article concludes with perspectives on the challenges and future directions.

FROM THE CLINICAL EDITOR

In this review, advances in nanofiber-based delivery of small molecules are discussed from the standpoint of their potential role in musculoskeletal regenerative engineering, highlighting both future directions and current challenges.

High-throughput screening reveals alsterpaullone, 2-cyanoethyl as a potent p27Kip1 transcriptional inhibitor

p27^Kip1 is a cell cycle inhibitor that prevents cyclin dependent kinase (CDK)/cyclin complexes from phosphorylating their targets. p27^Kip1 is a known tumor suppressor, as the germline loss of p27^Kip1 results in sporadic pituitary formation in aged rodents, and its presence in human cancers is indicative of a poor prognosis. In addition to its role in cancer, loss of p27^Kip1 results in regenerative phenotypes in some tissues and maintenance of stem cell pluripotency, suggesting that p27^Kip1 inhibitors could be beneficial for tissue regeneration. Because p27^Kip1 is an intrinsically disordered protein, identifying direct inhibitors of the p27^Kip1 protein is difficult. Therefore, we pursued a high-throughput screening strategy to identify novel p27^Kip1 transcriptional inhibitors. We utilized a luciferase reporter plasmid driven by the p27^Kip1 promoter to transiently transfect HeLa cells and used cyclohexamide as a positive control for non-specific inhibition. We screened a “bioactive” library consisting of 8,904 (4,359 unique) compounds, of which 830 are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved. From this screen, we successfully identified 111 primary hits with inhibitory effect against the promoter of p27^Kip1. These hits were further refined using a battery of secondary screens. Here we report four novel p27^Kip1 transcriptional inhibitors, and further demonstrate that our most potent hit compound (IC₅₀ = 200 nM) Alsterpaullone 2-cyanoethyl, inhibits p27^Kip1 transcription by preventing FoxO3a from binding to the p27^Kip1 promoter. This screen represents one of the first attempts to identify inhibitors of p27^Kip1 and may prove useful for future tissue regeneration studies.

BMP signaling is required for the generation of primordial germ cells in an insect

Two modes of germ cell formation are known in animals. Specification through maternally inherited germ plasm occurs in many well-characterized model organisms, but most animals lack germ plasm by morphological and functional criteria. The only known alternative mechanism is induction, experimentally described only in mice, which specify germ cells through bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signal-mediated induction of a subpopulation of mesodermal cells. Until this report, no experimental evidence of an inductive germ cell signal for specification has been available outside of vertebrates. Here we provide functional genetic experimental evidence consistent with a role for BMP signaling in germ cell formation in a basally branching insect. We show that primordial germ cells of the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus transduce BMP signals and require BMP pathway activity for their formation. Moreover, increased BMP activity leads to ectopic and supernumerary germ cells. Given the commonality of BMP signaling in mouse and cricket germ cell induction, we suggest that BMP-based germ cell formation may be a shared ancestral mechanism in animals.

Delivery of small molecules for bone regenerative engineering: preclinical studies and potential clinical applications

Stimulation of bone regeneration using growth factors is a promising approach for musculoskeletal regenerative engineering. However, common limitations with protein growth factors, such as high manufacturing costs, protein instability, contamination issues, and unwanted immunogenic responses of the host reduce potential clinical applications. New strategies for bone regeneration that involve inexpensive and stable small molecules can obviate these problems and have a significant impact on the treatment of skeletal injury and diseases. Over the past decade, a large number of small molecules with the potential of regenerating skeletal tissue have been reported in the literature. Here, we review this literature, paying specific attention to the prospects for small molecule-based bone-regenerative engineering. We also review the preclinical study of small molecules associated with bone regeneration.

Ribosome display and photo-cross-linking techniques for in vitro identification of target proteins of bioactive small molecules

The identification of target proteins of bioactive small molecules as bioprobe candidates or drug seeds is indispensable for elucidating their actions and predicting their side effects. To meet the current need, we developed a scheme for detection and identification of target proteins by using ribosome display and photo-cross-linking techniques, and demonstrated the feasibility. The mRNAs encoding full-length human proteins (FHPs) were constructed and translated in vitro to prepare pools of FHP-ribosome-mRNA complexes used for ribosome display selection. Expression levels of the FHPs were confirmed by Western blot analysis, and photo-cross-linked small-molecule beads were assessed through cell-free synthesized FHP binding assay. After ribosome display selection against photo-cross-linked small-molecule beads, RT-PCR using mRNAs recovered from the selected ternary complexes and electrophoresis of the PCR products allowed specific detection of the target proteins binding to the beads. In addition, a repeat of ribosome display selection enabled us to identify the target proteins even if the molar quantity was one ten-thousandth of that of the other proteins in a cell-free synthesized FHP pool. Therefore, these results showed that ribosome display using photo-cross-linked small-molecule beads and further extended FHP pool could be one of the powerful techniques for identification of unknown target proteins of bioactive small molecules.