Berberine derivative WJCPR11 enhances osteoblast differentiation

Berberine is a phytocompound from plants viz. Phellodendri cortex and Coptis rhizome, used to treat a variety of diseases. It is effective in preventing osteoporosis, but it is less effective than drugs currently used in clinical practice. In this study, we used a novel berberine derivative, WJCPR11, to promote osteoblast differentiation and to investigate its use in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. WJCPR11 at a safe concentration without toxicity increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity induced by bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) dose-dependently. The mRNA expression of ALP, osteocalcin (OC), runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), and osterix was increased, with the ALP level increasing the most. In addition, the protein abundance of bone sialoprotein (BSP), collagen, type I, alpha 1, Runx2, and osterix were also increased. Moreover, the transcriptional activity of ALP, BSP, and OC was increased by WJCPR11, with OC showing the most significant increase. The results indicate that osteoblast differentiation is promoted by WJCPR11, and it could play a role in the prevention of osteoporosis.

Expression of Stro-1, Runx-2, Osterix, and Alp in Alveolar Bone Regeneration Process Following the Administration of Hydroxyapatite Gypsum Puger (HAGP) Scaffold

@#Introduction: Tooth extraction before denture placement could result in trauma and damage to up to 50% of the alveolar bone, inducing bone resorption, and affecting the patient’s quality of life. Hydroxyapatite Gypsum Puger (HAGP) can be used as an alternative to bone graft material which degrades slowly, affecting the proliferation and activity of cells that are responsible for bone tissue engineering. This study aimed to analyze the regeneration mechanism of alveolar bone by administering the HAGP scaffold and observing the Stro-1, Runx-2, Osterix, and ALP expression. Methods: Laboratory experimental research was conducted and we used 150-355µm HAGP scaffold particles, applied in vivo inside alveolar sockets of the rats for 7, 14, and 28 days, followed by immunohistochemical examination of Stro-1, Runx-2, Osterix, and ALP expressions. Results: The HAGP scaffold group showed that the Stro-1 expression was significantly higher than the K(-) group, and the Runx-2 expression increased on day 7 and decreased on day 28 in the HAGP and K(-) groups. Osterix expression increased from day 7, 14, to day 28. The high expression of Osterix on day 28 means it took over the Runx-2 function. In ALP there was a significant increase on day 7. ALP expression was a sign of early osteoblast differentiation and production by cells, this extracellular matrix mineralization is an indicator of the osteogenic process. Conclusion: Alveolar bone regeneration mechanism in rats revealed that the expression of Stro-1, Runx-2, Osterix, and ALP was higher in the HAGP scaffold group compared to the control group on days 7,14, and 28.

Increased Expression of RUNX2 and ALP Resulting from a Combination of Propolis Extract and Bovine Bone Graft in Socket Preservation Material

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the inductive effect of a combination of propolis and BBG extract on RUNX2 and ALP expression in the tooth extraction sockets of Cavia cobaya. Fifty- six Cavia cobaya were divided into four groups: polyethylene glycol (PEG), propolis extract + PEG, BBG + PEG, and propolis extract + BBG + PEG. The lower left incisor was extracted, and the socket subsequently filled with material according to the specific group of which the subject was a member. The subjects were sacrificed on the 14th and 30th days. Immunohistochemical staining was carried out under a light microscope at 400x magnification. Statistical analysis was then carried out by means of One-Way ANOVA and Tukey HSD tests. The mean number of RUNX2 and ALP expressions in each group was significantly different. The highest number of RUNX2 and ALP expressions occurred in the propolis + BBG + PEG group on the 30th day, while the lowest expressions were observed in the control group on the 14th day. A combination of propolis and BBG extract at a concentration of 2% of active substance effectively increases the expression of RUNX2 and ALP in preserving the tooth extraction sockets of Cavia cobaya.

Influence of photobiomodulation and tricalcium silicate-based cement on viability and dentinogenic activity of cultured human dental pulp stem cells / Influência da fotobiomodulação e cimento de silicato tricálcio na viabilidade e atividade dentinogênica de células tronco cultivadas da polpa de dente humano

Objective: To assess the effect of application of Biodentine (BD), Photobiomodulation (PBM) using 810 nm diode laser and both on the proliferation and odontogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (HDPSCs). Material and Methods: HDPSCs were collected, isolated, and characterized and then divided into six groups: groups 1, control; groups 2, biodentine (BD); group 3, irradiation at 1 J/cm 2 of 810-nm diode laser; group 4, irradiation at 1 J/cm 2 and culture with BD; group 5, irradiation at 2 J/cm 2, and group 6, irradiation at 2 J/cm 2 and culture with BD. Viability assay was measured through MTT assay and Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enzyme activity and mRNA levels of RUNX2, collagen 1 (Col-1) and BMP2 were also assessed. Results: Photobiomodulation at 1 and 2 J/cm 2 combined with biodentine significantly promoted HDPSCs proliferation (in MTT assay results) and odontogenic differentiation (through the gene expression of RUNX2, Col-1 and BMP2 levels (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Photobiomodulation at 2 J/cm 2 combined with biodentine enhanced proliferation and odontogenic differentiation of cultured HDPSCs and thus could further be beneficial for dentin regeneration (AU)

Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da aplicação de Biodentina (BD), Fotobiomodulação (PBM) usando diodo de laser de 810 nm e ambos na proliferação e diferenciação odontogênica de células tronco cultivadas da polpa dental (HDPSCs). Material e Métodos: HDPSCs foram coletadas, isoladas, caracterizadas e então divididas em seis grupos: grupo 1, controle; grupo 2, biodentina (BD); grupo 3, irradiação com diodo de laser a 1 J/cm2 de 810- nm; grupo 4, irradiação a 1 J/cm 2 e cultivo com BD; grupo 5, irradiação a 2 J/cm2, e grupo 6, irradiação a 2 J/cm2 e cultivo com BD. A viabilidade foi mensurada através do teste MTT e a atividade da enzima Fosfatase alcalina (ALP), e níveis de RNAm de RUNX2, de colágeno 1 (Col-1) e de BMP2 foram também mensurados. Resultados: Fotobiomodulação a 1 e 2 J/cm 2 combinada com biodentina promoveu significativa proliferação de HDPSCs (nos resultados do teste MTT) e diferenciação odontogênica (através da expressão genética dos níveis de RUNX2, Col-1 e BMP2 (p < 0.05)). Conclusão: Fotobiomodulação a 2 J/cm2 combinada com biodentina aumentou a proliferação e diferenciação odontogênica de HDPSCs cultivadas e dessa forma poderia ser benéfica para a regeneração dentinária. (AU)

Effect of Extracts from Veronica peregrine on Breast Cancer Cell-induced Osteoclastic Bone Metastasis via Inhibiting Runx2 Activation / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate inhibitory effect of extracts from Veronica peregrina （EVP） on the osteoclastic bone metastasis induced by breast cancer cells. MethodBone metastasis model was established by injection of MDA-MB-231 cells， a human breast cancer cell line， into the left ventricle of BALB/c nude mice. The expression of human cytokeratin-19 （Ck-19） gene in mouse bone marrow was determined by nested polymerase chain reaction（PCR） to assess the bone metastasis of MDA-MB-231 cells. To assess the effects of EVP on the activation of bone marrow macrophages （BMMs）， we counted the multinuclear cells and measured the secretion of Cathepsin K. Western blot was adopted to assess the effects of EVP on receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB （RANK）， Runt-related transcription factor 2 （ Runx2 ）， phosphorylated Runx2 （p-Runx2）， and matrix metalloproteinase-9 （MMP-9） in BMMs. Gelatin zymography was employed to determine the activities of matrix metalloproteinases （MMPs）. ResultCompared with that in the blank group， Ck-19 expression was down-regulated in EVP groups （P<0.05）. The multinucleated cells increased when the BMMs were induced by soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand （sRANKL）， which was inhibited by EVP （P<0.05）. The level of cathepsin K in the supernatant of sRANKL group increased compared with that of the blank group， while EVP groups had lower cathepsin K levels than sRANKL group （P<0.05）. Compared with the blank group， the sRANKL group showed up-regulated RANK expression， Runx2 phosphorylation， and MMP-9 expression （P<0.05）， while the expression levels of RANK， p-Runx2， and MMP-9 were down-regulated when the cells were incubated with EVP （P<0.05）. Furthermore， exposure of BMMs to sRANKL resulted in an increase in gelatin hydrolyzation compared with the blank group （P<0.01）， which， however， was reversed in EVP groups （P<0.05）. ConclusionEVP significantly inhibits bone marrow metastasis of MDA-MB-231 cells， which may be associated with the suppression of osteoclast activation by inhibiting Runx2 phosphorylation.

Metformin and lipopolysaccharide regulate transcription of NFATc2 gene via the transcription factor RUNX2 / 南方医科大学学报

OBJECTIVE@#To construct a luciferase reporter gene vector carrying human nuclear factor of activated T cells 2 (NFATc2) gene promoter and examine the effects of metformin and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the transcriptional activity of NFATc2 gene.@*METHODS@#The promoter sequence of human NFATc2 gene was acquired from UCSC website for PCR amplification. NFATc2 promoter fragment was inserted into pGL3-basic plasmid double cleaved with Kpn Ⅰ and Hind Ⅲ. The resultant recombinant plasmid pGL3-NFATC2-promoter was co-transfected with the internal reference plasmid pRL-TK in 293F cells, and luciferase activity in the cells was detected. Reporter gene vectors of human NFATc2 gene promoter with different fragment lengths were also constructed and assayed for luciferase activity. The changes in transcription activity of NFATc2 gene were assessed after treatment with different concentrations of metformin and LPS for 24 h. We also examined the effect of mutation in RUNX2-binding site in NFATC2 gene promoter on the regulatory effects of metformin and LPS on NFATc2 transcription.@*RESULTS@#We successfully constructed pGL3-NFATc2-promoter plasmids carrying different lengths (2170 bp, 2077 bp, 1802 bp, 1651 bp, 1083 bp, 323 bp) of NFATc2 promoter sequences as verified by enzymatic digestion and sequencing. Transfection of 293F cells with the plasmid carrying a 1651 bp NFATc2 promoter (pGL3-1651 bp) resulted in the highest transcriptional activity of NFATc2 gene, and the luciferase activity was approximately 3.3 times that of pGL3-2170 bp (1.843 ± 0.146 vs 0.547 ± 0.085). Moderate (5 mmol/L) and high (10 mmol/L) concentrations of metformin significantly upregulated the transcriptional activity of pGL3-1651 bp by up to 2.5 and 3 folds, respectively. LPS at different doses also upregulated the transcriptional activity of pGL3-1651 bp by at least 1.6 folds. The mutation in the RUNX2 binding site on pGL3-1651 bp obviously reduced metformin- and LPS-induced enhancement of pGL3-1651bp transcription by 1.7 and 2 folds, respectively.@*CONCLUSION@#pGL3-NFATc2-promoter can be transcribed and activated in 293F cells, and LPS and metformin can activate the transcription of pGL3- NFATc2-promoter in a RUNX2-dependent manner.

Polymorphisms in DSSP (rs36094464) and RUNX2 (rs566712) genes contribute to the susceptibility of dental caries in childhood / Los polimorfismos en los genes DSSP (rs36094464) y RUNX2 (rs566712) contribuyen a la susceptibilidad de la caries dental en la infancia

SUMMARY: Dental caries corresponds to an ecological and non-contagious, dynamic and chronic disease of multifactorial origin; currently there is evidence of how genetic factors could be included as predisposing agents to suffer it, however this evidence is diverse and incipient. a cross-sectional study was p erformed to investigate the possible associations of DSPP (rs36094464), RUNX2 (rs566712) and KLK4 (rs198968) polymorphisms in early childhood caries. Saliva samples of children (2-11years old) were collected and genotyped for DSPP (rs36094464), RUNX2 (rs566712) and KLK4 (rs198968) polymorphisms. Through the ceft index their caries history was determined and the gene variants were students through molecular biology techniques. polymorphisms of the DSSP (rs36094464) and RUNX2 (rs566712) are associated and contribute to the susceptibility of dental caries disease in early childhood, as they are related to their history of caries. KLK4 (rs198968) polymorphisms are not associated. In conclusions, the studied polymorphisms on DSSP and RUNX2 genes are associated with changes in the tooth microarchitecture, favoring the appearance of microlesions that would contribute to dental caries disease susceptibility in early childhood. Also, no association was found for the studied polymorphism of the KLK4 gene with dental caries disease susceptibility.

RESUMEN: La caries dental corresponde a una enfermedad crónica, no contagiosa, dinámica y de origen multifactorial. Actualmente existe evidencia de cómo los factores genéticos podrían incluirse como agentes predisponentes, sin embargo, esta evidencia es diversa e incipiente. Se realizó un estudio transversal para investigar las posibles asociaciones entre los polimorfismos DSPP (rs36094464), RUNX2 (rs566712) y KLK4 (rs198968) y la caries en la infancia. Se colectaron muestras de saliva de niños (de 2 a 11 años de edad) y se genotipificaron para los polimorfismos DSPP (rs36094464), RUNX2 (rs566712) y KLK4 (rs198968). Mediante el índice ceft se determinó su historial de caries y se estudiaron las variantes genéticas mediante técnicas de biología molecular. Los datos obtenidos indican que los polimorfismos del DSSP (rs36094464) y RUNX2 (rs566712) están asociados y contribuyen a la susceptibilidad de la enfermedad de caries dental en la infancia, ya que están - además - relacionados con el historial de caries. En conclusión, los polimorfismos estudiados en los genes DSSP y RUNX2 se asocian a la aparición de microlesiones que contribuirían a la susceptibilidad a la enfermedad de caries dental en la infancia. Creemos que este estudio es importante para la odontopediatría porque destaca el papel de DSSP (rs36094464) y RUNX2 (rs566712) y la susceptibilidad a la caries dental durante la infancia, además resalta la utilidad de la evaluación genética para la predicción y prevención de la caries dental y porque aporta evidencia que indica que los factores genéticos están implicados en la etiología de la caries.

Disostosis cleidocraneal a tres años de tratamiento ortopédico / Cleidocraneal dysostosis at three years of orthopedic treatment

Introducción: La disostosis cleidocraneal es un trastorno genético raro con patrón hereditario. Sus rasgos patognomónicos son la aplasia clavicular, fontanelas y suturas abiertas, múltiples anomalías dentales. Su origen se relaciona con alteraciones en el gen RUNX2, importante para la síntesis de CBFA1, que a su vez funciona como un conformador óseo y un diferenciador de osteoblastos. Caso clínico: Paciente de 11 años con características clínicas de CCD, se corroboran los antecedentes genéticos hereditarios y alteraciones dentales relacionados con disostosis cleidocraneal. Resultado: A tres años de tratamiento se observa mejor definición facial, la erupción de piezas permanentes retenidas y mejor función masticatoria. Conclusión: Mejorar la calidad de vida del paciente con tratamientos interceptivos y el conocimiento de las alteraciones causadas por el síndrome, así como el trabajo interdisciplinario (AU)

Introduction: Cleidocranial dysostosis is a rare genetic disorder with a hereditary pattern. Its pathognomonic features are clavicular aplasia, fontanelles and open sutures, multiple dental anomalies. Its origin is related to alterations in the RUNX2 gene, important for the synthesis of CBFA1, which in turn functions as a bone conformer and an osteoblast differentiator. Clinical case: Patient with eleven years old with clinical characteristics of CCD, hereditary genetic background, and dental alterations related to cleidocranial dysostosis are corroborated. Result: After three years of treatment, the facial definition is better, the eruption of permanent pieces retained and better chewing function. Conclusion: Improve the quality of life of the patient with interceptive treatments and the knowledge of the alterations caused by the syndrome, as well as the interdisciplinary work (AU)

Effect of Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma, Notoginseng Radix et Rhizoma and Chuanxiong Rhizoma Extracts on Expression of α-SMA and Runx2 Protein After High Glucose-induced Vascular aging in Mice / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective::To investigate the effects of Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma, Notoginseng Radix et Rhizoma and Chuanxiong Rhizoma extracts (GNC) on the protein expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and runt-related transcription factor2(Runx2) after high glucose-induced vascular aging in mice, and elucidate the protective mechanism of GNC in delaying vascular aging. Method::Totally 130 male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into normal control group and high glucose group. The mice in high glucose group were intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin (STZ). After successful modeling, the mice received high-fat diet for 7 months, and then they were randomly divided into model group, GNC low-dose and high-dose groups (0.819, 1.638 g·kg-1), and metformin group (150 mg·kg-1). The drug was given by intragastric administration once a day for 9 weeks. Seven days before tissues collection, a new batch of 4-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were purchased and fed normally for 1 week as a youth group. The general condition of the mice was observed. Morphological changes of the common carotid artery in mice were determined by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Masson trichromatic staining was used to observe the fibrosis of common carotid artery in mice. The expression levels of matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2), cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (p16), cyclic-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (p21), α-SMA and Runx2 in the common carotid arteries of mice were detected by immunohistochemistry. Result::The results of HE, TEM and Masson showed that there was almost no change in the inimal and adventitial thickness, ultrastructure and relative contents of collagen and elastic fibers in the common carotid arteries of mice between the youth group and normal control group. As compared with the normal control group, the intima of the common carotid artery in the model group was not smooth, the endothelial cells were almost completely detached, the cytoplasm was lysed, the inner elastic membrane became thinner, fractured, or even detached, and the proliferating collagen fibers sneaked into the tunica media. The hyperplasia of tunica media and tunica adventitia was obvious and disordered (P<0.01). The vascular smooth muscle cells showed deformations, protuberances, bifurcations, and even fragmentation, and focal necrosis was observed. There were significantly more vacuoles, lysosomes, and obvious autophagy vesicles. The relative content of collagen and elastic fibers in vascular walls increased significantly (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the above situation was relieved in each administration group (P<0.01). The results of immunohistochemistry showed that high glucose induced high expression of MMP-2, p16, p21 and Runx2 in the common carotid arteries(P<0.01), low expression of α-SMA(P<0.01), and the protein expression tended to be normal after drug intervention(P<0.05, P<0.01). Conclusion::High glucose can induce the aging of common carotid artery in mice and change the expression of α-SMA and Runx2 proteins. The Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma, Notoginseng Radix et Rhizoma and Chuanxiong Rhizoma extracts can delay vascular aging by regulating the protein expression of α-SMA and Runx2.

Effect of Sanggenone C on MC3T3-E1 Based on Molecular Docking Technology / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective::To observe the effect of sanggenone C (SanC) on the proliferation and differentiation of mouse MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts induced by dexamethasone (DEX), and to explore its mechanism. Method::Molecular docking was conducted between SanC and Runt-associated transcription factor 2(Runx2) protein structure obtained by homologous modeling. MC3T3-E1 cells were jointly treated by different concentrations of SanC (8, 16, and 32 μmol·L-1) and 1 μmol·L-1 DEX, and then cell counting kit-8(CCK-8) method was used to detect the effect of SanC on the proliferation of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. The alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts was determined by reagent kit and the formation of mineralized bone nodules were detected by alizarin red staining. Real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) was used to detect the mRNA expression of Runx2, ALP and Osterix. The protein expression of Runx2 was detected by Western blot. Result::The docking score of SanC and Runx2 was -9.78.As compared with the normal group, DEX group significantly reduced the cell survival rate (P<0.01), and the greatest difference occurred on the seventh day. As compared with DEX group, SanC could significantly promote the cell proliferation of MC3T3-E1 (P<0.01), in which 32 μmol·L-1 SanC had the largest difference in proliferation rate on seventh day. As compared with the normal group, the expression of Runx2, ALP and Osterix mRNA increased to a certain extent in DEX group(P<0.01). As compared with DEX group, the expression levels of Runx2, ALP and Osterix mRNA were up-regulated in different concentration groups of SanC in a dose-dependent manner (P<0.01). As compared with the normal group, the expression of Runx2 protein in DEX group decreased significantly (P<0.05), and as compared with DEX group, the expression of Runx2 protein in cells under the intervention of SanC increased significantly (P<0.01). Conclusion::SanC can promote the proliferation, differentiation and mineralization of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts, and the mechanism may be related to the up-regulation of Runx2 expression.

Evaluation of Neo-Osteogenesis in Eosinophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis Using a Nasal Polyp Murine Model

PURPOSE: Osteitis refers to the development of new bone formation and remodeling of bone in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients; it is typically associated with eosinophilia, nasal polyps (NPs), and recalcitrant CRS. However, the roles of ossification in CRS with or without NPs remain unclear due to the lack of appropriate animal models. Thus, it is necessary to have a suitable animal model for greater advances in the understanding of CRS pathogenesis.METHODS: BALB/c mice were administered ovalbumin (OVA) and staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB). The numbers of osteoclasts and osteoblasts and bony changes were assessed. Micro computed tomography (micro-CT) scans were conducted to measure bone thickness. Immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction were performed to evaluate runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), osteonectin, interleukin (IL)-13, and RUNX2 downstream gene expression. Gene set enrichment analysis was performed in mucosal tissues from control and CRS patients. The effect of resveratrol was evaluated in terms of osteogenesis in a murine eosinophilic CRS NP model.RESULTS: The histopathologic changes showed markedly thickened bones with significant increase in osteoblast numbers in OVA/SEB-treated mice compared to the phosphate-buffered saline-treated mice. The structural changes in bone on micro-CT were consistent with the histopathological features. The expression of RUNX2 and IL-13 was increased by the administration of OVA/SEB and showed a positive correlation. RUNX2 expression mainly co-localized with osteoblasts. Bioinformatic analysis using human CRS transcriptome revealed that IL-13-induced bony changes via RUNX2. Treatment with resveratrol, a candidate drug against osteitis, diminished the expression of IL-13 and RUNX2, and the number of osteoblasts in OVA/SEB-treated mice.CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, we found the histopathological and radiographic evidence of osteogenesis using a previously established murine eosinophilic CRS NP model. This animal model could provide new insights into the pathophysiology of neo-osteogenesis and provide a basis for developing new therapeutics.

Remifentanil promotes osteoblastogenesis by upregulating Runx2/osterix expression in preosteoblastic C2C12 cells

BACKGROUND: The imbalance between osteoblasts and osteoclasts can lead to pathological conditions such as osteoporosis. It has been reported that opioid adversely affect the skeletal system, but it is inconsistent. Remifentanil is currently used as an adjuvant analgesic drug in general anesthesia and sedation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of remifentanil on the osteoblast differentiation and mechanism involved in this effect. METHODS: The C2C12 cells (mouse pluripotent mesenchymal cell line) were used as preosteoblast. Osteoblastic differentiation potency was determined by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining. C2C12 cell migration by remifentanil was evaluated using Boyden chamber migration assay. The expression of Runx2 and osterix was evaluated by RT-PCT and western blot analysis to investigate the mechanism involved in remifentanil-mediated osteoblast differentiation. RESULTS: ALP staining showed that remifentanil increased significantly osteoblast differentiation. In Boyden chamber migration assay, C2C12 cell migration was increased by remifentanil. RT-PCR and western blot analysis showed that the expression of Runx2 and osterix was upregulated by remifentanil. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrated that remifentanil increased osteoblast differentiation in vitro by upregulation of Runx2 and osterix expression. Therefore, remifentanil has the potential for assisting with bone formation and bone healing.

Silencing of LncRNA-ANCR Promotes the Osteogenesis of Osteoblast Cells in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis via Targeting EZH2 and RUNX2

PURPOSE: This study aimed to explore the effects and mechanisms of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) anti-differentiation non-coding RNA (ANCR) on the osteogenesis of osteoblast cells in postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Mice models of PMOP were established. ANCR expression and intracellular calcium ions were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and laser confocal microscopy, respectively. ANCR was silenced in osteoblast cells from PMOP mice by the transfection of siRNA-ANCR (si-ANCR). The proliferation and apoptosis of osteoblast cells was analyzed by MTT and flow cytometry, respectively. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcium nodules were examined by ALP and alizarin red staining assay, respectively. The expression of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), runt related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), and OSTERIX was detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Furthermore, an osteogenesis model was constructed in mice, and osteoid formation was observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The interaction between lncRNA-ANCR and EZH2 was further identified by RNA pull-down assay. RESULTS: ANCR expression and intracellular calcium ions were increased in PMOP mice. Si-ANCR significantly increased the proliferation, ALP activity, calcium deposition of osteoblast cells and decreased apoptosis. ANCR and EZH2 were down-regulated by si-ANCR, while RUNX2 and OSTERIX were upregulated. Si-ANCR also promoted osteoid formation in mice treated with hydroxyapatite-tricalcium phosphate. In addition, ANCR specifically bound to EZH2. CONCLUSION: Silencing ANCR promotes the osteogenesis of PMOP osteoblast cells. The specific binding of ANCR with EZH2 suppressed RUNX2, thereby inhibiting osteogenesis.

Prenatal diagnosis for two families affected with cleidocranial dysplasia due to novel RUNX2 variants / 中华医学遗传学杂志

Objective@#To analyze variants of RUNX2 gene in two pedigrees affected with cleidocranial dysplasia and provide prenatal diagnosis for them.@*Methods@#For the two probands, the coding sequences of the RUNX2 gene were analyzed with PCR and bidirectional Sanger sequencing. To verify the results, peripheral blood samples were collected from their parents and 100 healthy controls. For family 1, umbilical cord blood was also collected for prenatal genetic diagnosis.@*Results@#In family 1, the proband and the fetus both carried a heterozygous c. 578G>C (p.Arg193Pro) mutation. For family 2, the proband was found to carry a heterozygous c. 909C>A (p.Tyr303X) mutation. The same mutations were not found among their parents and 100 healthy controls. Neither mutation was reported previously.@*Conclusion@#Variants of the RUNX2 gene probably underlie the cleidocranial dysplasia in both pedigrees. The results enabled prenatal diagnosis for the affected family.

Pilose antler aqueous extract promotes the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells by stimulating the BMP-2/Smad1, 5/Runx2 signaling pathway / 中国天然药物

Peptides from Pilose antler aqueous extract (PAAE) have been shown to stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well understood. Here, PAAE was isolated and purified to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying PAAE's effects on BMSCs as well as its osteoprotective effects in ovariectomized rats. Our results showed that PAAE promoted proliferation and differentiation of BMSCs to become osteoblasts by enhancing ALP activity and increasing extracellular matrix mineralization. The trabecular microarchitecture of ovariectomized rats was also found to be protected by PAAE. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (Quantitative RT-PCR) results suggest that PAAE also increased the expression of osteogenic markers including, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteocalcin (OCN), bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), and collagen I (COL-I). Immunoblotting results indicated that PAAE upregulated the levels of BMP-2 and Runx2 and was associated with Smad1/5 phosphorylation. PAAE A at the concentration of 200 μg·mL showed the strongest effect on proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs after 48 h. Using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), we identified the molecular weight of PAAE A and found that it is less than 3000 Da and showed several significant peaks. In conclusion, PAAE activates the BMP-2/Smad1, 5/Runx2 pathway to induce osteoblastic differentiation and mineralization in BMSCs and can inhibit OVX-induced bone loss. These mechanisms are likely responsible for its therapeutic effect on postmenopausal osteoporosis.

A Novel RUNX2 Mutation in a Korean Family with Cleidocranial Dysplasia / 대한소아치과학회지

Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) is an autosomal-dominant disease characterized by the delayed closure of cranial sutures, defects in clavicle formation, supernumerary teeth, and delayed tooth eruption. Defects in the Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), a master regulator of bone formation, have been identified in CCD patients. The aim of this study was to identify the molecular genetic causes in a CCD family with delayed tooth eruption.The 23-year-old female proband and her mother underwent clinical and radiographic examinations, and all coding exons of the RUNX2 were sequenced. Mutational analysis revealed a single nucleotide deletion mutation (NM_001024630.4 : c.357delC) in exon 3 in the proband and her mother. The single C deletion would result in a frameshift in translation and introduce a premature stop codon [p.(Asn120Thrfs*24)]. This would result in the impaired function of RUNX2 protein, which may be the cause of delayed eruption of permanent teeth in the family.

Beneficial effects of Cuscuta chinensis extract on glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis through modulation of RANKL/OPG signals

Cuscuta chinensis Lam. (Convolvulaceae) is an important herbal medicine widely used to improve sexual function, treat osteoporosis, and prevent aging, and has been reported to exhibit anti-osteoporotic effects in vitro. However, the activity of Cuscuta chinensis Lam. on glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis still remains unclear. The present study aimed to assess the protective effect and the underlying mechanism of action of Cuscuta chinensis extract (CCE) against glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in vivo. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups as follows: control group, osteoporosis group, and 2 CCE-treated osteoporosis groups (100 mg·kg-1·day-1). Blood samples and femur bones were collected for immunohistochemistry, biochemical, mRNA expression, and western blot analysis. HPLC analysis revealed that chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and hyperin were the major constituents of CCE. The results indicated that CCE increased bone length, bone weight, and bone mineral density and suppressed dexamethasone (DEX)-induced reduction in body weight. In addition, TRAP staining indicated that CCE reduced osteoclasts in DEX-induced osteoporosis rats. Mechanistically, CCE treatment alleviated the increase of bone resorption markers and the decline of osteogenic markers, which might be partially mediated by regulation of RANKL/OPG and RunX2 pathways. These results suggest that CCE showed promising effects in the protection against glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis through protecting osteoblasts and suppressing osteoclastogenesis.

Zinc upregulates bone-specific transcription factor Runx2 expression via BMP-2 signaling and Smad-1 phosphorylation in osteoblasts / 한국영양학회지

PURPOSE: Runx2 (runt-related transcription factor 2), a bone-specific transcription factor, is a key regulator of osteoblast differentiation and its expression is induced by the activation of BMP-2 signaling. This study examined whether zinc modulates BMP-2 signaling and therefore stimulates Runx2 and osteoblast differentiation gene expression. METHODS: Two osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cell lines (subclones 4 as a high osteoblast differentiation and subclone 24 as a low osteoblastic differentiation) were cultured in an osteogenic medium (OSM) as the normal control, Zn− (1 µM Zn) or Zn+ (15 µM Zn) for 24 h. The genes and proteins for BMP-2 signaling (BMP-2, Smad-1/p-Smad-1), transcription factors (Runx2, osterix), and osteoblast differentiation marker proteins were assessed. RESULTS: In both cell lines, BMP-2 mRAN and protein expression and extracellular BMP-2 secretion all decreased in Zn−. The expression of Smad-1 (downstream regulator of BMP-2 signaling) and p-Smad-1 (phosphorylated Smad-1) also downregulated in Zn−. Furthermore, the expression of the bone-specific transcription factors, Runx2 and osterix, decreased in Zn−, which might be due to the decreased BMP-2 expression and Smad-1 activation (p-Smad-1) by Zn−, because Runx2 and osterix both are downstream in BMP-2 signaling. Bone marker gene expression, such as alkaline phosphatase (ALP), collagen type I (COLI), osteocalcin, and osteopontin were also downregulated in Zn−. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that a zinc deficiency in osteoblasts suppresses the BMP-2 signaling pathway via the suppression of Smad-1 activation, and this suppressed BMP-2 signaling can cause poor osteoblast differentiation.

Glycyrrhiza uralensis (licorice) extracts increase cell proliferation and bone marker enzyme alkaline phosphatase activity in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells / 한국영양학회지

PURPOSE: The Glycyrrhiza uralensis species (Leguminosae) as a medicinal biocompound, and one of its root components, isoliquritigenin (ISL), which is a flavonoid, has been reported to have anti-tumor activity in vitro and in vivo. However, its function in bone formation has not been studied yet. In this study, we tested the effect of Glycyrrhiza uralensis (ErLR) and baked Glycyrrhiza uralensis (EdLR) extracts on osteoblast proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and bone-related gene expression in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells. METHODS: MC3T3-E1 cells were cultured in various levels of ErLR (0, 5, 10, 15, 20 µg/mL), EdLR (0, 5, 10, 15, 20 µg/mL), or ISL (0, 5, 10, 15, 20 µM) in time sequences (1, 5, and 20 days). Also, isoliquritigenin (ISL) was tested for comparison to those two biocompound extracts. RESULTS: MTT assay results showed that all three compounds (ErLR, EdLR, and ISL) increased osteoblastic-cell proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner for one day. In addition, both ErLR and EdLR compounds elevated the osteoblast proliferation for 5 or 20 days. Extracellular ALP activity was also increased as ErLR, EdLR, and ISL concentration increased at 20 days, which implies the positive effect of Glycyrrhiza species on osteoblast mineralization. The bone-related marker mRNAs were upregulated in the ErLR-treated osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells for 20 days. Bone-specific transcription factor Runx2 gene expression was also elevated in the ErLR- and EdLR-treated osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells for 20 days. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrated that Glycyrrhiza uralensis extracts may be useful for preventing osteoporosis by increasing cell proliferation, ALP activity, and bone-marker gene expression in osteoblastic cells.

Effect of miR-194-3p on migration of keloid fibroblasts / 中华整形外科杂志

Objective@#To study the effect of miR-194-3p on the migration of keloid fibroblasts.@*Methods@#Differentially expressed miRNA were screened by gene chip in 8 human keloid and normal tissues. The down regulated miR-194-3p was selected for study and its binding to RUNX2 was predicted by MiRDB, and verified by fluorescent reporter gene in human keloid fibroblasts (HKFs) and passage 3 keloid cells, respectively. The effect of miR-194-3p on the migration of fibroblasts was detected by transwell assay. Western blot and real-time PCR were used to analyze the effect of miR-194-3p on RUNX2 and MMP2 expression in HKFs. The results were analyzed by SPSS 19.0 software and compared by non-paired t test. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.@*Results@#There were abnormal expressions of miR-721, miR-21-3p, miR-382-3p, miR-194-3p, miR-3107-5p and miR-144-5p in keloid. miRDB software analysis showed that miR-194-3p and RUNX2 had targeted binding sites. Reporter gene experiments showed that miR-194-3p inhibited the activity of RUNX2 by about 50% compared with the control group (t=2.7764, P=0.0005). MiR-194-3p could significantly inhibit the expression of RUNX2 and MMP2, and inhibited the migration of keloid fibroblasts (t=2.7764, P<0.05).@*Conclusion@#MiR-194-3p may inhibit the migration of fibroblasts by inhibiting the activity of RUNX2 in keloid.