Early growth response gene 1 regulates bone properties in mice

Genome-Wide Association Analysis Identifies Important Haplotypes and Candidate Gene XKR4 for Body Size Traits in Pekin Ducks

Body size is an important growth indicator in ducks and is a primary selection criterion for physical improvement. An excessively rapid growth rate in meat ducks can result in excessive body size, which may hinder subsequent processing and slaughter operations. However, only a few molecular markers related to body size have been studied in meat ducks. In this study, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify candidate genes and QTLs affecting body length (BL), keel bone length (KBL), neck length (NL), and breast width (BrW) in Pekin ducks (Anas platyrhynchos domestica). Our results indicate the significant SNP for NL is located within a pseudogene, whereas the significant SNP for BrW is located in an intergenic region. More importantly, our analysis identified a haplotype that was significantly associated with both BL and KBL. This haplotype, containing 48 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), is localized within the XKR4 gene. The identification of this haplotype suggests that XKR4 may be a key candidate gene influencing BL and KBL in Pekin ducks. These findings have important implications for the breeding and genetic improvement of Pekin ducks, and provide valuable insights into the genetic architecture of body size traits in this species.

EGR1 Plays an Important Role in BMP9-Mediated Osteoblast Differentiation by Promoting SMAD1/5 Phosphorylation

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are essential regulators of skeletal homeostasis, and BMP9 is the most potently osteogenic among them. Here, we found that BMP9 and BMP2 rapidly induced early growth response 1 (EGR1) protein expression in osteoblasts through MEK/ERK pathway-dependent transcriptional activation. Knockdown of EGR1 using siRNA significantly inhibited BMP9-induced matrix mineralization and osteogenic marker gene expression in osteoblasts. Knockdown of EGR1 significantly reduced SMAD1/5 phosphorylation and inhibited the expression of their transcriptional targets in osteoblasts stimulated by BMP9. In contrast, forced EGR1 overexpression in osteoblasts enhanced BMP9-mediated osteoblast differentiation and SMAD1/5 phosphorylation. An intracellular association between EGR1 and SMAD1/5 was identified using immunoprecipitation assays. These results indicated that EGR1 plays an important role in BMP9-stimulated osteoblast differentiation by enhancing SMAD1/5 phosphorylation.

NEAT1 functions as a key mediator of BMP2 to promote osteogenic differentiation of renal interstitial fibroblasts

Aim: To clarify the mechanism of NEAT1, an aberrantly upregulated lncRNA in Randall's plaques (RP) similar to biomineralization, in mediating osteogenic differentiation of human renal interstitial fibroblasts. Materials & methods: A comprehensive strategy of bioinformatic analysis and experimental verification was performed. Results: BMP2 silence abolished the osteogenic differentiation of human renal interstitial fibroblasts promoted by NEAT1. Mechanically, NEAT1 not only induced the nucleolar translocation of EGR1 binding to BMP2 promotor, but also functioned as a sponge of miR-129-5p in the cytoplasm to promote BMP2 expression. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between NEAT1 and BMP2 expression in RP instead of normal renal papilla. Conclusion: NEAT1 acted as a key mediator of BMP2 to promote human renal interstitial fibroblast osteogenic differentiation, through which NEAT1 might be involved in RP formation.

Gone Caving: Roles of the Transcriptional Regulators YAP and TAZ in Skeletal Development

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The development of the skeleton is controlled by cellular decisions determined by the coordinated activation of multiple transcription factors. Recent evidence suggests that the transcriptional regulator proteins, Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), could have important roles in directing the activity of these transcriptional programs. However, in vitro evidence for the roles of YAP and TAZ in skeletal cells has been hopelessly contradictory. The goals of this review are to provide a cross-sectional view on the state of the field and to synthesize the available data toward a unified perspective.

RECENT FINDINGS

YAP and TAZ are regulated by diverse upstream signals and interact downstream with multiple transcription factors involved in skeletal development, positioning YAP and TAZ as important signal integration nodes in an hourglass-shaped signaling pathway. Here, we provide a survey of putative transcriptional co-effectors for YAP and TAZ in skeletal cells. Synthesizing the in vitro data, we conclude that TAZ is consistently pro-osteogenic in function, while YAP can exhibit either pro- or anti-osteogenic activity depending on cell type and context. Synthesizing the in vivo data, we conclude that YAP and TAZ combinatorially promote developmental bone formation, bone matrix homeostasis, and endochondral fracture repair by regulating a variety of transcriptional programs depending on developmental stage. Here, we discuss the current understanding of the roles of the transcriptional regulators YAP and TAZ in skeletal development, and provide recommendations for continued study of molecular mechanisms, mechanotransduction, and therapeutic implications for skeletal disease.

E-vapor aerosols do not compromise bone integrity relative to cigarette smoke after 6-month inhalation in an ApoE-/- mouse model

Cigarette smoke (CS) exposure is one of the leading risk factors for human health. Nicotine-containing inhalable products, such as e-cigarettes, can effectively support tobacco harm reduction approaches. However, there are limited comparative data on the effects of the aerosols generated from electronic vapor products (e-vapor) and CS on bone. Here, we report the effects of e-vapor aerosols and CS on bone morphology, structure, and strength in a 6-month inhalation study. Eight-week-old ApoE^-/- mice were exposed to aerosols from three different e-vapor formulations-CARRIER (propylene glycol and vegetable glycerol), BASE (CARRIER and nicotine), TEST (BASE and flavor)-to CS from 3R4F reference cigarettes at matched nicotine concentrations (35 µg/L) or to fresh air (Sham) (N = 10 per group). Tibiae were analyzed for bone morphology by µCT imaging, biomechanics by three-point bending, and by histological analysis. CS inhalation caused a significant decrease in cortical and total bone volume fraction and bone density relative to e-vapor aerosols. Additionally, CS exposure caused a decrease in ultimate load and stiffness. In contrast, bone structural and biomechanical parameters were not significantly affected by e-vapor aerosol or Sham exposure. At the dissection time point, there was no significant difference in body weight or tibia bone weight or length among the groups. Histological findings revealed microcracks in cortical bone areas among all exposed groups compared to Sham control. In conclusion, because of the bone-preserving effect of e-vapor aerosols relative to CS exposure, e-vapor products could potentially constitute less harmful alternatives to cigarettes in situations in which bone health is of importance.

EGR1 Transcription Factor is a Multifaceted Regulator of Matrix Production in Tendons and Other Connective Tissues

Although the transcription factor EGR1 is known as NGF1-A, TIS8, Krox24, zif/268, and ZENK, it still has many fewer names than biological functions. A broad range of signals induce Egr1 gene expression via numerous regulatory elements identified in the Egr1 promoter. EGR1 is also the target of multiple post-translational modifications, which modulate EGR1 transcriptional activity. Despite the myriad regulators of Egr1 transcription and translation, and the numerous biological functions identified for EGR1, the literature reveals a recurring theme of EGR1 transcriptional activity in connective tissues, regulating genes related to the extracellular matrix. Egr1 is expressed in different connective tissues, such as tendon (a dense connective tissue), cartilage and bone (supportive connective tissues), and adipose tissue (a loose connective tissue). Egr1 is involved in the development, homeostasis, and healing processes of these tissues, mainly via the regulation of extracellular matrix. In addition, Egr1 is often involved in the abnormal production of extracellular matrix in fibrotic conditions, and Egr1 deletion is seen as a target for therapeutic strategies to fight fibrotic conditions. This generic EGR1 function in matrix regulation has little-explored implications but is potentially important for tendon repair.

Early growth response 1 regulates hematopoietic support and proliferation in human primary bone marrow stromal cells

Human bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC) are key elements of the hematopoietic environment and they play a central role in bone and bone marrow physiology. However, how key stromal cell functions are regulated is largely unknown. We analyzed the role of the immediate early response transcription factor EGR1 as key stromal cell regulator and found that EGR1 was highly expressed in prospectively-isolated primary BMSC, down-regulated upon culture, and low in non-colony-forming CD45^neg stromal cells. Furthermore, EGR1 expression was lower in proliferative regenerating adult and fetal primary cells compared to adult steady-state BMSC. Overexpression of EGR1 in stromal cells induced potent hematopoietic stroma support as indicated by an increased production of transplantable CD34⁺CD90⁺ hematopoietic stem cells in expansion co-cultures. The improvement in bone marrow stroma support function was mediated by increased expression of hematopoietic supporting genes, such as VCAM1 and CCL28. Furthermore, EGR1 overexpression markedly decreased stromal cell proliferation whereas EGR1 knockdown caused the opposite effects. These findings thus show that EGR1 is a key stromal transcription factor with a dual role in regulating proliferation and hematopoietic stroma support function that is controlling a genetic program to co-ordinate the specific functions of BMSC in their different biological contexts.

Scaffold-free high throughput generation of quiescent valvular microtissues

AIMS

The major challenge of working with valvular interstitial cells in vitro is the preservation or recovery of their native quiescent state. In this study, a biomimetic approach is used which aims to engineer small volume, high quality valve microtissues, having a potential in regenerative medicine and as a relevant 3D in vitro model to provide insights into valve (patho)biology.

METHODS AND RESULTS

To form micro-aggregates, porcine valvular interstitial cells were seeded in agarose micro-wells and cultured in medium supplemented with 250μM Ascorbic Acid 2-phosphate for 22days. Histology showed viable aggregates with normal nuclei and without any signs of calcification. Aggregates stained strongly for GAG and collagen I and reticular fibers were present. ECM formation was quantified and showed a significant increase of GAG, elastin and Col I during aggregate culture. Cultivation of VIC in aggregates also promoted mRNA expression of Col I/III/V, elastin, hyaluronan, biglycan, decorin, versican MMP-1/2/3/9 and TIMP-2 compared to monolayer cultured VIC. Phenotype analysis of aggregates showed a significant decrease in α-SMA expression, and an increase in FSP-1 expression at any time point. Furthermore, VIC aggregates did not show a significant difference in OCN, Egr-1, Sox-9 or Runx2 expression.

CONCLUSION

In this study high quality valvular interstitial cell aggregates were generated that are able to produce their own ECM, resembling the native valve composition. The applied and completely cell driven 3D approach overcomes the problems of VIC activation in 2D, by downregulating α-SMA expression and stimulating a homeostatic quiescent VIC state.

EGR1 supports the osteogenic differentiation of dental stem cells

AIM

To evaluate whether and how the transcription factor early growth response gene 1 (EGR1) affects the osteogenic differentiation of dental stem cells.

METHODOLOGY

Dental stem cells from apical papilla (SCAPs) and from the dental follicle (DFCs) were transfected with EGR1-specific siRNA or EGR-1 expression plasmid. Gene regulation was verified at protein level by Western blotting. The expression of the transcription factors distal-less homeobox 3 (DLX3), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), which are all regulators and markers of the osteogenic differentiation in dental stem cells, was determined by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). To investigate mineralization, SCAP long-term cultures were stained with alizarin red after EGR1 over-expression.

RESULTS

EGR1 was induced in SCAPs during osteogenic differentiation. DLX3 and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) were up-regulated after EGR1 over-expression and down-regulated after EGR1 depletion. The expression of ALP was also down-regulated after EGR1 depletion. The over-expression of EGR1 in SCAPs promoted mineralization after osteogenic differentiation.

CONCLUSIONS

EGR1 supported the osteogenic differentiation of dental stem cells by potentially regulating the expression of DLX3 and BMP2.

Identification and characterization of regulatory elements in the promoter of ACVR1, the gene mutated in Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva

Background

The ACVR1 gene encodes a type I receptor for bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). Mutations in the ACVR1 gene are associated with Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP), a rare and extremely disabling disorder characterized by congenital malformation of the great toes and progressive heterotopic endochondral ossification in muscles and other non-skeletal tissues. Several aspects of FOP pathophysiology are still poorly understood, including mechanisms regulating ACVR1 expression. This work aimed to identify regulatory elements that control ACVR1 gene transcription.

Methods and results

We first characterized the structure and composition of human ACVR1 gene transcripts by identifying the transcription start site, and then characterized a 2.9 kb upstream region. This region showed strong activating activity when tested by reporter gene assays in transfected cells. We identified specific elements within the 2.9 kb region that are important for transcription factor binding using deletion constructs, co-transfection experiments with plasmids expressing selected transcription factors, site-directed mutagenesis of consensus binding-site sequences, and by protein/DNA binding assays. We also characterized a GC-rich minimal promoter region containing binding sites for the Sp1 transcription factor.

Conclusions

Our results showed that several transcription factors such as Egr-1, Egr-2, ZBTB7A/LRF, and Hey1, regulate the ACVR1 promoter by binding to the -762/-308 region, which is essential to confer maximal transcriptional activity. The Sp1 transcription factor acts at the most proximal promoter segment upstream of the transcription start site. We observed significant differences in different cell types suggesting tissue specificity of transcriptional regulation. These findings provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms that regulate expression of the ACVR1 gene and that could be targets of new strategies for future therapeutic treatments.

The immediate early gene product EGR1 and polycomb group proteins interact in epigenetic programming during chondrogenesis

Initiation of and progression through chondrogenesis is driven by changes in the cellular microenvironment. At the onset of chondrogenesis, resting mesenchymal stem cells are mobilized in vivo and a complex, step-wise chondrogenic differentiation program is initiated. Differentiation requires coordinated transcriptomic reprogramming and increased progenitor proliferation; both processes require chromatin remodeling. The nature of early molecular responses that relay differentiation signals to chromatin is poorly understood. We here show that immediate early genes are rapidly and transiently induced in response to differentiation stimuli in vitro. Functional ablation of the immediate early factor EGR1 severely deregulates expression of key chondrogenic control genes at the onset of differentiation. In addition, differentiating cells accumulate DNA damage, activate a DNA damage response and undergo a cell cycle arrest and prevent differentiation associated hyper-proliferation. Failed differentiation in the absence of EGR1 affects global acetylation and terminates in overall histone hypermethylation. We report novel molecular connections between EGR1 and Polycomb Group function: Polycomb associated histone H3 lysine27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) blocks chromatin access of EGR1. In addition, EGR1 ablation results in abnormal Ezh2 and Bmi1 expression. Consistent with this functional interaction, we identify a number of co-regulated targets genes in a chondrogenic gene network. We here describe an important role for EGR1 in early chondrogenic epigenetic programming to accommodate early gene-environment interactions in chondrogenesis.