Differential effects of secreted frizzled-related proteins (sFRPs) on osteoblastic differentiation of mouse mesenchymal cells and apoptosis of osteoblasts

Investigating the potential effect of Holothuria scabra extract on osteogenic differentiation in preosteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells

The present medical treatments of osteoporosis come with adverse effects. It leads to the exploration of natural products as safer alternative medical prevention and treatment. The sea cucumber, Holothuria scabra, has commercial significance in Asian countries with rising awareness of its properties as a functional food. This study aims to investigate the effects of the inner wall (IW) extract isolated from H. scabra on extracellular matrix maturation, mineralization, and osteogenic signaling pathways on MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts. The IW showed the expression of several growth factors. Molecular docking revealed that H. scabra BMP2/4 binds specifically to mammal BMP2 type I receptor (BMPR-IA). After osteogenic induction, the viability of cells treated with IW extract was assessed and designated with treatment of 0.1, 0.5, 1, and 5 µg/ml of IW extract for 21 consecutive days. On days 14 and 21, treatments with IW extract at 1 and 5 µg/ml showed increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcium deposit levels in a dose-dependent manner compared to the control group. Moreover, the transcriptomic analysis of total RNA of cells treated with 5 µg/ml of IW extract exhibited upregulation of TGF-β, PI3K/Akt, MAPK, Wnt and PTH signaling pathways at days 14. This study suggests that IW extract from H. scabra exhibits the potential to enhance osteogenic differentiation and mineralization of MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts through TGF-β, PI3K/Akt, MAPK, Wnt and PTH signaling pathways. Further investigation into the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of IW extract on osteogenesis is crucial to support its application as a naturally derived supplement for prevention or treatment of osteoporosis.

Research Progress on the Mechanism of the SFRP-Mediated Wnt Signalling Pathway Involved in Bone Metabolism in Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis (OP) is a metabolic bone disease linked to an elevated fracture risk, primarily stemming from disruptions in bone metabolism. Present clinical treatments for OP merely alleviate symptoms. Hence, there exists a pressing need to identify novel targets for the clinical treatment of OP. Research indicates that the Wnt signalling pathway is modulated by serum-secreted frizzled-related protein 5 (SFRP5), potentially serving as a pivotal regulator in bone metabolism disorders. Moreover, studies confirm elevated SFRP5 expression in OP, with SFRP5 overexpression leading to the downregulation of Wnt and β-catenin proteins in the Wnt signalling pathway, as well as the expression of osteogenesis-related marker molecules such as RUNX2, ALP, and OPN. Conversely, the opposite has been reported when SFRP5 is knocked out, suggesting that SFRP5 may be a key factor involved in the regulation of bone metabolism via the Wnt signalling axis. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the action of SFRP5-induced OP have yet to be comprehensively elucidated. This review focusses on the molecular structure and function of SFRP5 and the potential molecular mechanisms of the SFRP5-mediated Wnt signalling pathway involved in bone metabolism in OP, providing reasonable evidence for the targeted therapy of SFRP5 for the prevention and treatment of OP.

Role of Iron Accumulation in Osteoporosis and the Underlying Mechanisms

Osteoporosis is prevalent in postmenopausal women. The underlying reason is mainly estrogen deficiency, but recent studies have indicated that osteoporosis is also associated with iron accumulation after menopause. It has been confirmed that some methods of decreasing iron accumulation can improve the abnormal bone metabolism associated with postmenopausal osteoporosis. However, the mechanism of iron accumulation-induced osteoporosis is still unclear. Iron accumulation may inhibit the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway via oxidative stress, leading to osteoporosis by decreasing bone formation and increasing bone resorption via the osteoprotegerin (OPG)/receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL)/receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B (RANK) system. In addition to oxidative stress, iron accumulation also has been reported to inhibit either osteoblastogenesis or osteoblastic function as well as to stimulate either osteoclastogenesis or osteoclastic function directly. Furthermore, serum ferritin has been widely used for the prediction of bone status, and nontraumatic measurement of iron content by magnetic resonance imaging may be a promising early indicator of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

SFRP1 Negatively Modulates Pyroptosis of Fibroblast-Like Synoviocytes in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Review

Secreted frizzled-related protein 1 (SFRP1) is a member of secretory glycoprotein SFRP family. As a primitive gene regulating cell growth, development and transformation, SFRP1 is widely expressed in human cells, including various cancer cells and fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Deletion or silencing of SFRP1 involves epigenetic and other mechanisms, and participates in biological behaviors such as cell proliferation, migration and cell pyroptosis, which leads to disease progression and poor prognosis. In this review, we discuss the role of SFRP1 in the pathogenesis of RA-FLS and summarize different experimental platforms and recent research results. These are helpful for understanding the biological characteristics of SFRP1 in RA, especially the mechanism by which SFRP1 regulates RA-FLS pyroptosis through Wnt/β-catenin and Notch signaling pathways. In addition, the epigenetic regulation of SFRP1 in RA-FLS is emphasized, which may be considered as a promising biomarker and therapeutic target of RA.

Wnt Pathway Extracellular Components and Their Essential Roles in Bone Homeostasis

The Wnt pathway is involved in several processes essential for bone development and homeostasis. For proper functioning, the Wnt pathway is tightly regulated by numerous extracellular elements that act by both activating and inhibiting the pathway at different moments. This review aims to describe, summarize and update the findings regarding the extracellular modulators of the Wnt pathway, including co-receptors, ligands and inhibitors, in relation to bone homeostasis, with an emphasis on the animal models generated, the diseases associated with each gene and the bone processes in which each member is involved. The precise knowledge of all these elements will help us to identify possible targets that can be used as a therapeutic target for the treatment of bone diseases such as osteoporosis.

Secreted frizzled related-protein 2 (Sfrp2) deficiency decreases adult skeletal stem cell function in mice

In a previous transcriptomic study of human bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs, also known as bone marrow-derived "mesenchymal stem cells"), SFRP2 was highly over-represented in a subset of multipotent BMSCs (skeletal stem cells, SSCs), which recreate a bone/marrow organ in an in vivo ectopic bone formation assay. SFRPs modulate WNT signaling, which is essential to maintain skeletal homeostasis, but the specific role of SFRP2 in BMSCs/SSCs is unclear. Here, we evaluated Sfrp2 deficiency on BMSC/SSC function in models of skeletal organogenesis and regeneration. The skeleton of Sfrp2-deficient (KO) mice is overtly normal; but their BMSCs/SSCs exhibit reduced colony-forming efficiency, reflecting low SSC self-renewal/abundancy. Sfrp2 KO BMSCs/SSCs formed less trabecular bone than those from WT littermates in the ectopic bone formation assay. Moreover, regeneration of a cortical drilled hole defect was dramatically impaired in Sfrp2 KO mice. Sfrp2-deficient BMSCs/SSCs exhibited poor in vitro osteogenic differentiation as measured by Runx2 and Osterix expression and calcium accumulation. Interestingly, activation of the Wnt co-receptor, Lrp6, and expression of Wnt target genes, Axin2, C-myc and Cyclin D1, were reduced in Sfrp2-deficient BMSCs/SSCs. Addition of recombinant Sfrp2 restored most of these activities, suggesting that Sfrp2 acts as a Wnt agonist. We demonstrate that Sfrp2 plays a role in self-renewal of SSCs and in the recruitment and differentiation of adult SSCs during bone healing. SFRP2 is also a useful marker of BMSC/SSC multipotency, and a factor to potentially improve the quality of ex vivo expanded BMSC/SSC products.

SFRP2 enhances dental pulp stem cell-mediated dentin regeneration in rabbit jaw

OBJECTIVES

Dental tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-mediated tooth regeneration may be a useful therapeutic tool for repairing tooth loss. However, the low success rate of tooth regeneration restricts its clinical application. Identifying key factors for enhancing dentinogenesis in MSCs is crucial for promoting tooth regeneration.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) were transfected with retrovirus to obtain SFRP2-over-expressing DPSCs. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assay, Alizarin red staining, quantitative analysis of calcium, and dentinogenesis-related genes were detected. Additionally, transplantation in a rabbit tooth extraction model was used to explore the role of SFRP2 in dentin regeneration.

RESULTS

We found SFRP2 over-expression greatly enhanced ALP activity, and mineralization in DPSCs. Real-time RT-PCR revealed SFRP2 over-expression promoted the expressions of OSX, RUNX2, DSPP, DMP1, and BSP. Moreover, Micro CT analysis showed high-density calcification occurred to a much higher extent in SFRP2 over-expressing group compared to control group in vivo. Additionally, HE staining, immmunohistochemistry staining, and scanning electron microscopy results showed much more dentin-like tissue formed in SFRP2 over-expressing group compared to control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings revealed SFRP2 is an important regulator that enhances the dentinogenesis of DPSCs and dentin regeneration in the jaw, which may have clinical applications.

The effect of genetic polymorphisms on treatment duration following premolar extraction

To elucidate genetic factors affecting orthodontic treatment duration, we employed targeted next-generation sequencing on DNA from the saliva of 117 patients undergoing orthodontic treatment after premolar extraction. The clinical characteristics of patients are summarized, and the association of clinical variables with treatment duration was assessed. Patients whose treatment duration deviated from the average were classified into an extreme long group or an extreme short group. We identified nine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of six genes that significantly differed in the two groups via targeted sequencing. The frequency of the CC genotypes of WNT3A, SPP1 (rs4754, rs9138), and TNFSF11, TT genotype of SPP1 (rs1126616), and GG genotype of SFRP2 was significantly higher in the extreme long group than in the short group. In the extreme short group, the TC genotype of SPP1, AA genotype of P2RX7, CT genotype of TNFSF11, and AG genotype of TNFRSF11A tended to exhibit higher frequency than in the long group. Taken together, we identified genetic polymorphisms related to treatment duration in Korean orthodontic patients undergoing premolar extraction. Our findings could lead to further studies predicting the prolongation of the orthodontic treatment duration, and will be of great aid to patients as well as orthodontists.

Plant-derived soybean peroxidase stimulates osteoblast collagen biosynthesis, matrix mineralization, and accelerates bone regeneration in a sheep model

Bone defects arising from fractures or disease represent a significant problem for surgeons to manage and are a substantial economic burden on the healthcare economy. Recent advances in the development of biomaterial substitutes provides an attractive alternative to the current "gold standard" autologous bone grafting. Despite on-going research, we are yet to identify cost effective biocompatible, osteo-inductive factors that stimulate controlled, accelerated bone regeneration.We have recently reported that enzymes with peroxidase activity possess previously unrecognised roles in extracellular matrix biosynthesis, angiogenesis and osteoclastogenesis, which are essential processes in bone remodelling and repair. Here, we report for the first time, that plant-derived soybean peroxidase (SBP) possesses pro-osteogenic ability by promoting collagen I biosynthesis and matrix mineralization of human osteoblasts in vitro. Mechanistically, SBP regulates osteogenic genes responsible for inflammation, extracellular matrix remodelling and ossification, which are necessary for normal bone healing. Furthermore, SBP was shown to have osteo-inductive properties, that when combined with commercially available biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) granules can accelerate bone repair in a critical size long bone defect ovine model. Micro-CT analysis showed that SBP when combined with commercially available biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) granules significantly increased bone formation within the defects as early as 4 weeks compared to BCP alone. Histomorphometric assessment demonstrated accelerated bone formation prominent at the defect margins and surrounding individual BCP granules, with evidence of intramembranous ossification. These results highlight the capacity of SBP to be an effective regulator of osteoblastic function and may be beneficial as a new and cost effective osteo-inductive agent to accelerate repair of large bone defects.

Expression profiles of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling-related extracellular antagonists during proliferation and differentiation in human osteoblast-like cells

Bone formation is a dynamic process directed by osteoblast activity. The transition from the proliferation to differentiation stage during osteoblast maturation involves the downregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and extracellular antagonists are important for the regulation of Wnt signaling. However, the expression levels of Wnt antagonists in these stages of human osteoblast maturation have not been fully elucidated. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the expression levels of extracellular Wnt antagonists during proliferation and differentiation in osteoblast-like cell lines. The results demonstrated an overlap between the differential expression of secreted Frizzled-related protein (SFPR)2, SFRP3, SFRP4 and Dickkopf (DKK) 2 genes during the differentiation stage in the MG-63 and Saos-2 cells. Furthermore, high expression levels of DKK3 in MG-63 cells, Wnt inhibitory factor 1 (WIF1) in Saos-2 cells and DKK4 in hFOB 1.19 cells during the same stage (differentiation), were observed. The upregulated expression levels of Wnt antagonists were also correlated with the high expression of anxin 2 during the differentiation stage. These findings suggested that Wnt-related antagonists could modulate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. By contrast, DKK1 was the only gene that was found to be upregulated during the proliferation stage in hFOB 1.19 and Saos-2 cells. To the best of our knowledge, the present study provides, for the first time, the expression profile of Wnt antagonists during the proliferation stage and the initial phases of differentiation in osteoblast-like cell lines. The current results offer a basis to investigate potential targets for bone-related Wnt-signaling modulation in bone metabolism research.

Secreted Frizzled-related proteins (sFRPs) in osteo-articular diseases: much more than simple antagonists of Wnt signaling?

Osteo-articular diseases are characterized by a dysregulation of joint and/or bone homeostasis. These include diseases affecting the joints originally, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, or the bone, such as osteoporosis. Inflammation and the involvement of Wingless-related integration site (Wnt) signaling pathways are key pathophysiological features of these diseases resulting in tissue degradation by matrix-degrading enzymes, namely matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and a disintegrin and metalloproteinases with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTs), secreted by the joint resident cells and/or by infiltrating immune cells. Activation of Wnt signaling pathways is modulated by different families of proteins, including Dickkopfs and the secreted Frizzled-related proteins (sFRPs). The sFRP family is composed of five secreted glycoproteins in mammals that regulate Wnt signaling in the extracellular compartment. Indeed, sFRPs are able to bind both to the soluble Wnt ligands and to their cell membrane receptors, the Frizzled proteins. Their expression profile is altered in osteo-articular diseases, suggesting that they could account for the abnormal activation of Wnt pathways. In the present article, we review how sFRPs are more than simple antagonists of the Wnt signaling pathways and discuss their pathophysiological relevance in the context of osteo-articular diseases. We detail their Wnt-dependent and their Wnt-independent roles, with a particular emphasis on their ability to modulate the inflammatory response and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. We also discuss their potential therapeutic use with a focus on bone remodeling, osteo-articular cancers, and tissue engineering.

TET2 Loss Dysregulates the Behavior of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Accelerates Tet2-/--Driven Myeloid Malignancy Progression

TET2 is a methylcytosine dioxygenase that regulates cytosine hydroxymethylation. Although there are extensive data implicating a pivotal role of TET2 in hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs), the importance of TET2 in bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) remains unknown. In this study, we show that loss of TET2 in BMSCs increases cell proliferation and self-renewal and enhances osteoblast differentiation potential of BMSCs, which may in turn alter their behavior in supporting HSPC proliferation and differentiation. In addition, Tet2 loss alters BMSCs in promoting Tet2-deficiency-mediated myeloid malignancy progression. Tet2 loss in BMSCs also dysregulates hydroxylation of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) and the expression of genes that are key for BMSC proliferation and osteoblast differentiation, leading to alteration of biological characteristics in vivo. These results highlight the critical role of TET2 in the maintenance of BMSC functions and osteoblast differentiation and provide evidence that dysregulation of epigenetic modifiers in BMSCs contributes to the progression of myeloid malignancies.

SFRP2 enhances the osteogenic differentiation of apical papilla stem cells by antagonizing the canonical WNT pathway

Background

Exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying directed differentiation is helpful in the development of clinical applications of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Our previous study on dental tissue-derived MSCs demonstrated that secreted frizzled-related protein 2 (SFRP2), a Wnt inhibitor, could enhance osteogenic differentiation in stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs). However, how SFRP2 promotes osteogenic differentiation of dental tissue-derived MSCs remains unclear. In this study, we used SCAPs to investigate the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

SCAPs were isolated from the apical papilla of immature third molars. Western blot and real-time RT-PCR were applied to detect the expression of β-catenin and Wnt target genes. Alizarin Red staining, quantitative calcium analysis, transwell cultures and in vivo transplantation experiments were used to study the osteogenic differentiation potential of SCAPs.

Results

SFRP2 inhibited canonical Wnt signaling by enhancing phosphorylation and decreasing the expression of nuclear β-catenin in vitro and in vivo. In addition, the target genes of the Wnt signaling pathway, AXIN2 (axin-related protein 2) and MMP7 (matrix metalloproteinase-7), were downregulated by SFRP2. WNT1 inhibited the osteogenic differentiation potential of SCAPs. SFRP2 could rescue this WNT1-impaired osteogenic differentiation potential.

Conclusions

The results suggest that SFRP2 could bind to locally present Wnt ligands and alter the balance of intracellular Wnt signaling to antagonize the canonical Wnt pathway in SCAPs. This elucidates the molecular mechanism underlying the SFRP2-mediated directed differentiation of SCAPs and indicates potential target genes for improving dental tissue regeneration.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s11658-017-0044-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Comparative proteomic analysis of extracellular vesicles isolated from porcine adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated from mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) contribute to recovery of damaged tissue. We have previously shown that porcine MSC-derived EVs transport mRNA and miRNA capable of modulating cellular pathways in recipient cells. To identify candidate factors that contribute to the therapeutic effects of porcine MSC-derived EVs, we characterized their protein cargo using proteomics. Porcine MSCs were cultured from abdominal fat, and EVs characterized for expression of typical MSC and EV markers. LC-MS/MS proteomic analysis was performed and proteins classified. Functional pathway analysis was performed and five candidate proteins were validated by western blot. Proteomics analysis identified 5,469 distinct proteins in MSCs and 4,937 in EVs. The average protein expression was higher in MSCs vs. EVs. Differential expression analysis revealed 128 proteins that are selectively enriched in EVs versus MSCs, whereas 563 proteins were excluded from EVs. Proteins enriched in EVs are linked to a broad range of biological functions, including angiogenesis, blood coagulation, apoptosis, extracellular matrix remodeling, and regulation of inflammation. Excluded are mostly nuclear proteins, like proteins involved in nucleotide binding and RNA splicing. EVs have a selectively-enriched protein cargo with a specific biological signature that MSCs may employ for intercellular communication to facilitate tissue repair.

Demethylation of SFRP2 by histone demethylase KDM2A regulated osteo‐/dentinogenic differentiation of stem cells of the apical papilla

Objectives

Dental mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are easily obtained; however, mechanisms underlying directed differentiation of these cells remains unclear. Wnt/β‐catenin signalling is essential for mesenchymal cell commitment and differentiation, and Wnt inhibition is linked to stem cell maintenance and function. Secreted frizzled‐related protein 2 (SFRP2) competes with the Frizzled receptor for direct binding to Wnt and blocks activation of Wnt signalling. Here, we used stem cells derived from apical papillae (SCAPs) to study the functions of SFRP2.

Materials and methods

SCAPs were isolated from apical papillae of immature third molars. The cells were analysed using alkaline phosphatase activity assays, Alizarin red staining and quantitative calcium measurements. In addition, we evaluated expression profile of genes associated with osteogenesis and dentinogenesis (osteo‐/dentinogenesis), and conducted in vivo transplantation experiments to determine osteo‐/dentinogenic differentiation potential of SCAPs. ChIP assays were used to detect histone methylation at the SFRP2 promoter.

Results

We found that SFRP2 enhanced osteo‐/dentinogenic differentiation via Osterix, a key transcription factor in SCAPs. Furthermore, silencing SFRP2 induced SCAP cell death in osteogenic‐inducing medium, indicating that SFRP2 is a key factor in maintaining SCAP survival following osteo‐/dentinogenic commitment. Moreover, we found that silencing KDM2A, a histone demethylase and BCL6 co‐repressor, de‐repressed SFRP2 transcription by increasing histone H3K4 and H3K36 methylation at the SFRP2 promoter.

Conclusions

Our results have identified a new function of SFRP2 and shed new light on the molecular mechanism underlying directed differentiation of stem cells of dental origin.

Demethylation of SFRP2 by histone demethylase KDM2A regulated osteo-/dentinogenic differentiation of stem cells of the apical papilla

OBJECTIVES

Dental mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are easily obtained; however, mechanisms underlying directed differentiation of these cells remains unclear. Wnt/β-catenin signalling is essential for mesenchymal cell commitment and differentiation, and Wnt inhibition is linked to stem cell maintenance and function. Secreted frizzled-related protein 2 (SFRP2) competes with the Frizzled receptor for direct binding to Wnt and blocks activation of Wnt signalling. Here, we used stem cells derived from apical papillae (SCAPs) to study the functions of SFRP2.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SCAPs were isolated from apical papillae of immature third molars. The cells were analysed using alkaline phosphatase activity assays, Alizarin red staining and quantitative calcium measurements. In addition, we evaluated expression profile of genes associated with osteogenesis and dentinogenesis (osteo-/dentinogenesis), and conducted in vivo transplantation experiments to determine osteo-/dentinogenic differentiation potential of SCAPs. ChIP assays were used to detect histone methylation at the SFRP2 promoter.

RESULTS

We found that SFRP2 enhanced osteo-/dentinogenic differentiation via Osterix, a key transcription factor in SCAPs. Furthermore, silencing SFRP2 induced SCAP cell death in osteogenic-inducing medium, indicating that SFRP2 is a key factor in maintaining SCAP survival following osteo-/dentinogenic commitment. Moreover, we found that silencing KDM2A, a histone demethylase and BCL6 co-repressor, de-repressed SFRP2 transcription by increasing histone H3K4 and H3K36 methylation at the SFRP2 promoter.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results have identified a new function of SFRP2 and shed new light on the molecular mechanism underlying directed differentiation of stem cells of dental origin.

Bone response to fluoride exposure is influenced by genetics

Genetic factors influence the effects of fluoride (F) on amelogenesis and bone homeostasis but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain undefined. A label-free proteomics approach was employed to identify and evaluate changes in bone protein expression in two mouse strains having different susceptibilities to develop dental fluorosis and to alter bone quality. In vivo bone formation and histomorphometry after F intake were also evaluated and related to the proteome. Resistant 129P3/J and susceptible A/J mice were assigned to three groups given low-F food and water containing 0, 10 or 50 ppmF for 8 weeks. Plasma was evaluated for alkaline phosphatase activity. Femurs, tibiae and lumbar vertebrae were evaluated using micro-CT analysis and mineral apposition rate (MAR) was measured in cortical bone. For quantitative proteomic analysis, bone proteins were extracted and analyzed using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS), followed by label-free semi-quantitative differential expression analysis. Alterations in several bone proteins were found among the F treatment groups within each mouse strain and between the strains for each F treatment group (ratio ≥1.5 or ≤0.5; p<0.05). Although F treatment had no significant effects on BMD or bone histomorphometry in either strain, MAR was higher in the 50 ppmF 129P3/J mice than in the 50 ppmF A/J mice treated with 50 ppmF showing that F increased bone formation in a strain-specific manner. Also, F exposure was associated with dose-specific and strain-specific alterations in expression of proteins involved in osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis. In conclusion, our findings confirm a genetic influence in bone response to F exposure and point to several proteins that may act as targets for the differential F responses in this tissue.

The potential for resident lung mesenchymal stem cells to promote functional tissue regeneration: understanding microenvironmental cues

Tissue resident mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are important regulators of tissue repair or regeneration, fibrosis, inflammation, angiogenesis and tumor formation. Bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) and endothelial progenitor cells (EPC) are currently being considered and tested in clinical trials as a potential therapy in patients with such inflammatory lung diseases including, but not limited to, chronic lung disease, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), pulmonary fibrosis (PF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)/emphysema and asthma. However, our current understanding of tissue resident lung MSCs remains limited. This review addresses how environmental cues impact on the phenotype and function of this endogenous stem cell pool. In addition, it examines how these local factors influence the efficacy of cell-based treatments for lung diseases.

Expression of sfrp2 is increased in catagen of hair follicles and inhibits keratinocyte proliferation

Background

Hair follicles undergo cycles of repeated growth and regression. The Wnt pathway plays an important role in the regeneration and differentiation of hair follicles. Sfrp2, a Wnt inhibitor, is involved in the developmental and disease processes of various cells and tissues by modulating the Wnt pathway.

Objective

The aim of this study was to understand the role of Sfrp2 in hair follicles through investigation of the Sfrp2 expression pattern in the skin and its effect on keratinocytes.

Methods

We investigated Sfrp2 mRNA expression and the expression of the wnt target genes, Ccnd1 and C-myc, at various mouse hair follicle developmental stages using Real-time polymerase chain reaction. We also investigated the effect of SFRP2 on the proliferation and differentiation of mouse keratinocyte cells by adding SFRP2 protein or overexpressing Sfrp2 using an in vitro culture system.

Results

Sfrp2 expression peaked in the catagen phase and remained high until telogen, and then declined at the beginning of the next anagen. An inverse relationship to Sfrp2 expression was found for the expression of the Wnt target genes, C-myc and Ccnd1. In addition, we also observed inhibited proliferation of mouse keratinocytes in the presence of SFRP2.

Conclusion

These results suggest that Sfrp2 may play a role in the catagen phase by inhibiting the proliferation of keratinocyte and functioning as a Wnt inhibitor in keratinocytes.

Targeting CSC-related miRNAs for cancer therapy by natural agents

The theory of cancer stem cells (CSCs) has provided evidence on fundamental clinical implications because of the involvement of CSCs in cell migration, invasion, metastasis, and treatment resistance, which leads to the poor clinical outcome of cancer patients. Therefore, targeting CSCs will provide a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment and/or prevention of tumors. However, the regulation of CSCs and its signaling pathways during tumorigenesis are not well understood. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been proved to act as key regulators of the post-transcriptional regulation of genes, which involve in a wide array of biological processes including tumorigenesis. The altered expressions of miRNAs are associated with poor clinical outcome of patients diagnosed with a variety of tumors. Therefore, emerging evidence strongly suggest that miRMAs play critical roles in tumor development and progression. Emerging evidence also suggest that miRNAs participate in the regulation of tumor cell growth, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, drug resistance, and metastasis. Moreover, miRNAs such as let-7, miR-21, miR-22, miR-34, miR-101, miR-146a, and miR-200 have been found to be associated with CSC phenotype and function mediated through targeting oncogenic signaling pathways. In this article, we will discuss the role of miRNAs in the regulation of CSC phenotype and function during tumor development and progression. We will also discuss the potential role of naturally occurring agents (nutraceuticals) as potent anti-tumor agents that are believed to function by targeting CSC-related miRNAs.

DNA methylation and apoptosis resistance in cancer cells

Apoptosis is a cell death programme primordial to cellular homeostasis efficiency. This normal cell suicide program is the result of the activation of a cascade of events in response to death stimuli. Apoptosis occurs in normal cells to maintain a balance between cell proliferation and cell death. A deregulation of this balance due to modifications in the apoptosic pathway leads to different human diseases including cancers. Apoptosis resistance is one of the most important hallmarks of cancer and some new therapeutical strategies focus on inducing cell death in cancer cells. Nevertheless, cancer cells are resistant to treatment inducing cell death because of different mechanisms, such as DNA mutations in gene coding for pro-apoptotic proteins, increased expression of anti-apoptotic proteins and/or pro-survival signals, or pro-apoptic gene silencing mediated by DNA hypermethylation. In this context, aberrant DNA methylation patterns, hypermethylation and hypomethylation of gene coding for proteins implicated in apoptotic pathways are possible causes of cancer cell resistance. This review highlights the role of DNA methylation of apoptosis-related genes in cancer cell resistance.

A Comprehensive Overview of Skeletal Phenotypes Associated with Alterations in Wnt/β-catenin Signaling in Humans and Mice

The Wnt signaling pathway plays key roles in differentiation and development and alterations in this signaling pathway are causally associated with numerous human diseases. While several laboratories were examining roles for Wnt signaling in skeletal development during the 1990s, interest in the pathway rose exponentially when three key papers were published in 2001-2002. One report found that loss of the Wnt co-receptor, Low-density lipoprotein related protein-5 (LRP5), was the underlying genetic cause of the syndrome Osteoporosis pseudoglioma (OPPG). OPPG is characterized by early-onset osteoporosis causing increased susceptibility to debilitating fractures. Shortly thereafter, two groups reported that individuals carrying a specific point mutation in LRP5 (G171V) develop high-bone mass. Subsequent to this, the causative mechanisms for these observations heightened the need to understand the mechanisms by which Wnt signaling controlled bone development and homeostasis and encouraged significant investment from biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies to develop methods to activate Wnt signaling to increase bone mass to treat osteoporosis and other bone disease. In this review, we will briefly summarize the cellular mechanisms underlying Wnt signaling and discuss the observations related to OPPG and the high-bone mass disorders that heightened the appreciation of the role of Wnt signaling in normal bone development and homeostasis. We will then present a comprehensive overview of the core components of the pathway with an emphasis on the phenotypes associated with mice carrying genetically engineered mutations in these genes and clinical observations that further link alterations in the pathway to changes in human bone.

The biological kinship of hypoxia with CSC and EMT and their relationship with deregulated expression of miRNAs and tumor aggressiveness

Hypoxia is one of the fundamental biological phenomena that are intricately associated with the development and aggressiveness of a variety of solid tumors. Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF) function as a master transcription factor, which regulates hypoxia responsive genes and has been recognized to play critical roles in tumor invasion, metastasis, and chemo-radiation resistance, and contributes to increased cell proliferation, survival, angiogenesis and metastasis. Therefore, tumor hypoxia with deregulated expression of HIF and its biological consequence lead to poor prognosis of patients diagnosed with solid tumors, resulting in higher mortality, suggesting that understanding of the molecular relationship of hypoxia with other cellular features of tumor aggressiveness would be invaluable for developing newer targeted therapy for solid tumors. It has been well recognized that cancer stem cells (CSCs) and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotypic cells are associated with therapeutic resistance and contribute to aggressive tumor growth, invasion, metastasis and believed to be the cause of tumor recurrence. Interestingly, hypoxia and HIF signaling pathway are known to play an important role in the regulation and sustenance of CSCs and EMT phenotype. However, the molecular relationship between HIF signaling pathway with the biology of CSCs and EMT remains unclear although NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Notch, Wnt/β-catenin, and Hedgehog signaling pathways have been recognized as important regulators of CSCs and EMT. In this article, we will discuss the state of our knowledge on the role of HIF-hypoxia signaling pathway and its kinship with CSCs and EMT within the tumor microenvironment. We will also discuss the potential role of hypoxia-induced microRNAs (miRNAs) in tumor development and aggressiveness, and finally discuss the potential effects of nutraceuticals on the biology of CSCs and EMT in the context of tumor hypoxia.

Microarray profiling of diaphyseal bone of rats suffering from hypervitaminosis A

Vitamin A is the only known compound that produces spontaneous fractures in rats. In an effort to resolve the molecular mechanism behind this effect, we fed young male rats high doses of vitamin A and performed microarray analysis of diaphyseal bone with and without marrow after 1 week, i.e., just before the first fractures appeared. Of the differentially expressed genes in cortical bone, including marrow, 98% were upregulated. In contrast, hypervitaminotic cortical bone without marrow showed reduced expression of 37% of differentially expressed genes. Gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed that only samples containing bone marrow were associated with a GO term, which principally represented extracellular matrix. This is consistent with the histological findings of increased endosteal/marrow osteoblast number. Fourteen genes, including Cyp26b1, which is known to be upregulated by vitamin A, were selected and verified by real-time PCR. In addition, immunohistochemical staining of bone sections confirmed that the bone-specific molecule osteoadherin was upregulated. Further analysis of the major gene-expression changes revealed apparent augmented Wnt signaling in the sample containing bone marrow but reduced Wnt signaling in cortical bone. Moreover, induced expression of hypoxia-associated genes was found only in samples containing bone marrow. Together, these results highlight the importance of compartment-specific analysis of bone and corroborate previous observations of compartment-specific effects of vitamin A, with reduced activity in cortical bone but increased activity in the endosteal/marrow compartment. We specifically identify potential key osteoblast-, Wnt signaling-, and hypoxia-associated genes in the processes leading to spontaneous fractures.

HOXB4 can enhance the differentiation of embryonic stem cells by modulating the hematopoietic niche

Hematopoietic differentiation of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) in vitro has been used as a model to study early hematopoietic development, and it is well documented that hematopoietic differentiation can be enhanced by overexpression of HOXB4. HOXB4 is expressed in hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) where it promotes self-renewal, but it is also expressed in the primitive streak of the gastrulating embryo. This led us to hypothesize that HOXB4 might modulate gene expression in prehematopoietic mesoderm and that this property might contribute to its prohematopoietic effect in differentiating ESCs. To test our hypothesis, we developed a conditionally activated HOXB4 expression system using the mutant estrogen receptor (ER(T2)) and showed that a pulse of HOXB4 prior to HPC emergence in differentiating ESCs led to an increase in hematopoietic differentiation. Expression profiling revealed an increase in the expression of genes associated with paraxial mesoderm that gives rise to the hematopoietic niche. Therefore, we considered that HOXB4 might modulate the formation of the hematopoietic niche as well as the production of hematopoietic cells per se. Cell mixing experiments supported this hypothesis demonstrating that HOXB4 activation can generate a paracrine as well as a cell autonomous effect on hematopoietic differentiation. We provide evidence to demonstrate that this activity is partly mediated by the secreted protein FRZB.

Insights into the genetics of osteoporosis from recent genome-wide association studies

Osteoporosis, which is characterised by reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and an increased risk of fragility fractures, is the result of a complex interaction between environmental factors and genetic variants that confer susceptibility. Heritability studies have shown that BMD and other osteoporosis-related traits such as ultrasound properties of bone, skeletal geometry and bone turnover have significant inheritable components. Although previous linkage and candidate gene studies have provided few replicated loci for osteoporosis, genome-wide association approaches have produced clear and reproducible findings. To date, 20 genome-wide association studies (GWASs) for osteoporosis and related traits have been conducted, identifying dozens of genes. Further meta-analyses of GWAS data and deep resequencing of rare variants will uncover more novel susceptibility loci and ultimately provide possible therapeutic targets for fracture prevention.

Down-regulation of the canonical Wnt β-catenin pathway in the airway epithelium of healthy smokers and smokers with COPD

BACKGROUND

The Wnt pathway mediates differentiation of epithelial tissues; depending on the tissue types, Wnt can either drive or inhibit the differentiation process. We hypothesized that key genes in the Wnt pathway are suppressed in the human airway epithelium under the stress of cigarette smoking, a stress associated with dysregulation of the epithelial differentiated state.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Microarrays were used to assess the expression of Wnt-related genes in the small airway epithelium (SAE) obtained via bronchoscopy and brushing of healthy nonsmokers, healthy smokers, and smokers with COPD. Thirty-three of 56 known Wnt-related genes were expressed in the SAE. Wnt pathway downstream mediators β-catenin and the transcription factor 7-like 1 were down-regulated in healthy smokers and smokers with COPD, as were many Wnt target genes. Among the extracellular regulators that suppress the Wnt pathway, secreted frizzled-related protein 2 (SFRP2), was up-regulated 4.3-fold in healthy smokers and 4.9-fold in COPD smokers, an observation confirmed by TaqMan Real-time PCR, Western analysis and immunohistochemistry. Finally, cigarette smoke extract mediated up-regulation of SFRP2 and down-regulation of Wnt target genes in airway epithelial cells in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

Smoking down-regulates the Wnt pathway in the human airway epithelium. In the context that Wnt pathway plays an important role in differentiation of epithelial tissues, the down-regulation of Wnt pathway may contribute to the dysregulation of airway epithelium differentiation observed in smoking-related airway disorders.

Evolution of the parathyroid hormone family and skeletal formation pathways

Bone is considered to be a feature of higher vertebrates and one of the features that was required for the movement from water onto land. But there are a number of evolutionarily important species that have cartilaginous skeletons, including sharks. Both bony and cartilaginous fish are believed to have a common ancestor who had a bony skeleton. A number of factors and pathways have been shown to be involved in the development and maintenance of bony skeleton including the Wnt pathway and the parathyroid hormone gene family. The study of these pathways and factors in cartilaginous animals may shed light on the evolution of the vertebrate skeleton.

Secreted Frizzled-related protein-2 (sFRP2) augments canonical Wnt3a-induced signaling

Secreted Frizzled-related proteins (sFRP) are involved in embryonic development as well as pathological conditions including bone and myocardial disorders and cancer. Because of their sequence homology with the Wnt-binding domain of Frizzled, they have generally been considered antagonists of canonical Wnt signaling. However, additional activities of various sFRPs including both synergism and mimicry of Wnt signaling as well as functions other than modulation of Wnt signaling have been reported. Using human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293A), we found that sFRP2 enhanced Wnt3a-dependent phosphorylation of LRP6 as well as both cytosolic β-catenin levels and its nuclear translocation. While addition of recombinant sFRP2 had no activity by itself, Top/Fop luciferase reporter assays showed a dose-dependent increase of Wnt3a-mediated transcriptional activity. sFRP2 enhancement of Wnt3a signaling was abolished by treatment with the Wnt antagonist, Dickkopf-1 (DKK1). Wnt-signaling pathway qPCR arrays showed that sFRP2 enhanced the Wnt3a-mediated transcriptional up-regulation of several genes regulated by Wnt3a including its antagonists, DKK1, and Naked cuticle-1 homolog (NKD1). These results support sFRP2's role as an enhancer of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, a result with biological impact for both normal development and diverse pathologies such as tumorigenesis.

The role of nutraceuticals in the regulation of Wnt and Hedgehog signaling in cancer

Multiple cellular signaling pathways have been involved in the processes of cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Among many signaling pathways, Wnt and Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathways are critically involved in embryonic development, in the biology of cancer stem cells (CSCs) and in the acquisition of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), and thus this article will remain focused on Wnt and Hh signaling. Since CSCs and EMT are also known to be responsible for cancer cell invasion and metastasis, the Wnt and Hedgehog signaling pathways are also intimately associated with cancer invasion and metastasis. Emerging evidence suggests the beneficial role of chemopreventive agents commonly known as nutraceutical in cancer. Among many such agents, soy isoflavones, curcumin, green tea polyphenols, 3,3'-diindolylmethane, resveratrol, lycopene, vitamin D, etc. have been found to prevent, reverse, or delay the carcinogenic process. Interestingly, these agents have also shown to prevent or delay the progression of cancer, which could in part be due to their ability to attack CSCs or EMT-type cells by attenuating the Wnt and Hedgehog signaling pathways. In this review, we summarize the current state of our knowledge on the role of Wnt and Hedgehog signaling pathways, and their targeted inactivation by chemopreventive agents (nutraceuticals) for the prevention of tumor progression and/or treatment of human malignancies.

Transgenic mice overexpressing secreted frizzled-related proteins (sFRP)4 under the control of serum amyloid P promoter exhibit low bone mass but did not result in disturbed phosphate homeostasis

Secreted frizzled-related protein-4 (sFRP4) is a member of secreted modulators of Wnt signaling pathways and has been recognized to play important role in the pathogenesis of oncogenic osteomalacia as a potential phosphatonin. To investigate the role of sFRP4 in bone biology and phosphorus homeostasis in postnatal life, we generated transgenic mice that overexpress sFRP4 under the control of the serum amyloid P promoter (SAP-sFRP4), which drives transgene expression postnatally. Serum phosphorus level and urinary phosphorus excretion were slightly lower and higher, respectively, in SAP-sFRP4 compared to wild-type (WT) littermate, but the difference did not reach statistical significance. However, renal Na(+/-)/Pi co-transporter (Npt) 2a and 1alpha-hydroxylase gene expression were up-regulated in SAP-sFRP4 mice. In addition, the level of serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) was higher in SAP-sFRP4 mice. At 5 weeks of age, bone mineral density (BMD) in SAP-sFRP4 was similar to that in WT. However, with advancing age, SAP-sFRP4 mice gained less BMD so that areal BMD of SAP-sFRP4 mice was significantly lower compared to WT at 15 weeks of age. Histomorphometric analysis of proximal tibia showed that trabecular bone volume (BV/TV) and thickness (Tb.Th) were significantly lower in SAP-sFRP4 mice. There was no evidence of osteomalacia in histological analysis. Our data do not support the role of sFRP4 per se as a phosphatonin but suggest that sFRP4 negatively regulates bone formation without disrupting phosphorus homeostasis.

Molecular genetic studies of gene identification for osteoporosis: the 2009 update

Osteoporosis is a complex human disease that results in increased susceptibility to fragility fractures. It can be phenotypically characterized using several traits, including bone mineral density, bone size, bone strength, and bone turnover markers. The identification of gene variants that contribute to osteoporosis phenotypes, or responses to therapy, can eventually help individualize the prognosis, treatment, and prevention of fractures and their adverse outcomes. Our previously published reviews have comprehensively summarized the progress of molecular genetic studies of gene identification for osteoporosis and have covered the data available to the end of September 2007. This review represents our continuing efforts to summarize the important and representative findings published between October 2007 and November 2009. The topics covered include genetic association and linkage studies in humans, transgenic and knockout mouse models, as well as gene-expression microarray and proteomics studies. Major results are tabulated for comparison and ease of reference. Comments are made on the notable findings and representative studies for their potential influence and implications on our present understanding of the genetics of osteoporosis.

Enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis contributes to Wnt induced osteoblastic differentiation of C3H10T1/2 cells

Mitochondria play a key role in cell physiology including cell differentiation and proliferation. We investigated the changes of mitochondrial biogenesis during Wnt-induced osteoblastic differentiation of murine mesenchymal C3H10T1/2 cells. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that activation of Wnt signaling by Wnt-3A conditioned medicum (CM) resulted in significant increase in the number of mitochondria in C3H10T1/2 cells. In addition, the induction of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities by Wnt-3A CM was accompanied by significant increase in mitochondrial mass (p<0.05), mitochondrial membrane potential (p<0.05), intracellular reactive oxygen species production (p<0.05), resting oxygen consumption rate (p<0.05), cellular ATP content (p< or =0.05) and mtDNA copy number (p<0.05) compared to the cells with control CM (L292-CM) treatment. Moreover, co-treatment with Dkk-1 or WIF-1, both of which are Wnt inhibitors, abrogated the Wnt-3A-induced ALP activities as well as mitochondrial biogenesis markers. Upregulation of mitochondrial biogenesis by overexpression of mitochondrial transcription factor A (Tfam) significantly enhanced Wnt-induced osteogenesis as measured by ALP activities. In contrast, inhibition of mitochondrial biogenesis by treatment with Zidovudine (AZT) resulted in significant inhibition of ALP activities. Finally, ALP activities in human osteosarcoma cell line devoid of mitochondrial DNA (rho(0) cells) was significantly suppressed both in basal and Wnt-3A stimulated state compared to those from mitochondria-intact cells (rho+ cells). As a mechanism for Wnt-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis, we found that Wnt increased the expression of PGC-1alpha, a critical molecules in mitochondrial biogenesis, through Erk and p38 MAPK pathway independent of beta-catenin signaling. We also found that increased mitochondrial biogenesis is in turn positively regulating TOPflash reporter activity as well as beta-catenin levels. To summarize, mitochodrial biogenesis is upregulated by Wnt signaling and this upregulation contributes to the osteoblastic differentiation of mouse mesenchymal C3H10T1/2 cells.

Porcine aortic endothelial cell genes responsive to selected inflammatory stimulators

Use of porcine tissues has been suggested as a promising solution for severe shortage of transplantable human organs. The immediate hurdle for xenotransplantation is acute immune/inflammatory vascular rejection of the transplant. Because endothelial cells play a key role in the initiation and the amplification of inflammation, alteration of gene expression in human endothelial cells, by various inflammatory stimulators has been studied extensively. However, transcriptional changes induced by human and other inflammatory stimulators in porcine endothelial cells have thus far not been studied. In this study, we treated porcine endothelial cells with human tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, porcine interferon (IFN)-gamma, H(2)O(2) and lypopolysaccharide (LPS) and profiled transcriptional change at 1 hr, 6 hr and 24 hr, using pig oligonucleotide 13K microarray. We found that mRNA species such as chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 6 (CXCL6) and Cathepsin S were significantly induced in porcine endothelial cells, as was previously reported with human endothelial cell. We also found that mRNA species including secreted frizzled-related protein 2 (SFRP2), radical S-adenosyl methionine domain containing 2 (RSAD2), structure specific recognition protein 1 (SSRP1) also were highly overexpressed in porcine endothelial cells. This result shows clues to understand underlying mechanisms of xenotransplantation rejection and the highly responsive porcine genes may serve as novel targets to be regulated for improving the function of grafted porcine donor organs.

Wnt pathway genes in osteoporosis and osteoarthritis: differential expression and genetic association study

In comparison with hip fractures, increased expression of genes in the Wnt pathway and increased Wnt activity were found in bone samples and osteoblast cultures from patients with osteoarthritis, suggesting the involvement of this pathway in subchondral bone changes. No consistent differences were found in the genetic association study.

INTRODUCTION

This study aims to explore the allelic variations and expression of Wnt pathway genes in patients with osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.

METHODS

The expression of 86 genes was studied in bone samples and osteoblast primary cultures from patients with hip fractures and hip or knee osteoarthritis. The Wnt-related activity was assessed by measuring AXIN2 and in transfection experiments. Fifty-five SNPs of the LRP5, LRP6, FRZB, and SOST genes were analyzed in 1,128 patients.

RESULTS

Several genes were differentially expressed in bone tissue, with the lowest values usually found in hip fracture and the highest in knee osteoarthritis. Overall, seven genes were consistently upregulated both in tissue samples and in cell cultures from patients with knee osteoarthritis (BCL9, FZD5, DVL2, EP300, FRZB, LRP5, and TCF7L1). The increased expression of AXIN2 and experiments of transient transfection of osteoblasts with the TOP-Flash construct confirmed the activation of Wnt signaling. Three SNPs of the LRP5 gene and one in the LRP6 gene showed marginally significant differences in allelic frequencies across the patient groups, but they did not resist multiple-test adjustment.

CONCLUSIONS

Genes in the Wnt pathway are upregulated in the osteoarthritic bone, suggesting their involvement not only in cartilage distortion but also in subchondral bone changes.

Genetics of osteoporosis: accelerating pace in gene identification and validation

Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mineral density and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to an increased risk of fractures. It is the most common metabolic bone disorder worldwide, affecting one in three women and one in eight men over the age of 50. In the past 15 years, a large number of genes have been reported as being associated with osteoporosis. However, only in the past 4 years we have witnessed an accelerated pace in identifying and validating osteoporosis susceptibility loci. This increase in pace is mostly due to large-scale association studies, meta-analyses, and genome-wide association studies of both single nucleotide polymorphisms and copy number variations. A comprehensive review of these developments revealed that, to date, at least 15 genes (VDR, ESR1, ESR2, LRP5, LRP4, SOST, GRP177, OPG, RANK, RANKL, COLIA1, SPP1, ITGA1, SP7, and SOX6) can be reasonably assigned as confirmed osteoporosis susceptibility genes, whereas, another >30 genes are promising candidate genes. Notably, confirmed and promising genes are clustered in three biological pathways, the estrogen endocrine pathway, the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway, and the RANKL/RANK/OPG pathway. New biological pathways will certainly emerge when more osteoporosis genes are identified and validated. These genetic findings may provide new routes toward improved therapeutic and preventive interventions of this complex disease.

Wnt inhibitory factor (WIF)-1 inhibits osteoblastic differentiation in mouse embryonic mesenchymal cells

Wnt inhibitory factor (WIF)-1 belongs to the members of secreted modulators of Wnt proteins. Secreted frizzled-related proteins (sFRPs), another member of Wnt modulators, have been shown to play differential roles in Wnt signaling depending on the subtypes and cell models. This study was undertaken to investigate the functional role of WIF-1 in osteoblastic differentiation of mouse mesenchymal C3H10T1/2 cells. C3H10T1/2 cells express endogenous WIF-1 and its expression level decreases during osteoblastogenesis. Treatment of C3H10T1/2 cells with WIF-1 significantly reduced alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities induced by either osteogenic medium (OM, ascorbic acid and beta-glycerophosphate) or Wnt-3a conditioned medium (CM) in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, the expression level of endogenous WIF-1 increased during adipogenesis and WIF-1 treatment resulted in increased adipogenesis. C3H10T1/2 cells transduced with WIF-1 retrovirus also exhibited reduced ALP activity and decreased mRNA expression of Runx2, collagen type 1, ALP and osteocalcin during osteoblastic differentiation compared to empty virus-transduced cells. Moreover, treatment with WIF-1 dose-dependently attenuates beta-catenin/T-cell factor (TCF) transcriptional activity in this cell line. Finally, knockdown of WIF-1 in C3H10T1/2 cells by RNA interference leads to increase in ALP activities. Collectively, these results indicate that WIF-1 plays as a negative regulator of osteoblastic differentiation in mouse mesenchymal C3H10T1/2 cells in vitro.

A large-scale genome-wide association study of Asian populations uncovers genetic factors influencing eight quantitative traits

To identify genetic factors influencing quantitative traits of biomedical importance, we conducted a genome-wide association study in 8,842 samples from population-based cohorts recruited in Korea. For height and body mass index, most variants detected overlapped those reported in European samples. For the other traits examined, replication of promising GWAS signals in 7,861 independent Korean samples identified six previously unknown loci. For pulse rate, signals reaching genome-wide significance mapped to chromosomes 1q32 (rs12731740, P = 2.9 x 10(-9)) and 6q22 (rs12110693, P = 1.6 x 10(-9)), with the latter approximately 400 kb from the coding sequence of GJA1. For systolic blood pressure, the most compelling association involved chromosome 12q21 and variants near the ATP2B1 gene (rs17249754, P = 1.3 x 10(-7)). For waist-hip ratio, variants on chromosome 12q24 (rs2074356, P = 7.8 x 10(-12)) showed convincing associations, although no regional transcript has strong biological candidacy. Finally, we identified two loci influencing bone mineral density at multiple sites. On chromosome 7q31, rs7776725 (within the FAM3C gene) was associated with bone density at the radius (P = 1.0 x 10(-11)), tibia (P = 1.6 x 10(-6)) and heel (P = 1.9 x 10(-10)). On chromosome 7p14, rs1721400 (mapping close to SFRP4, a frizzled protein gene) showed consistent associations at the same three sites (P = 2.2 x 10(-3), P = 1.4 x 10(-7) and P = 6.0 x 10(-4), respectively). This large-scale GWA analysis of well-characterized Korean population-based samples highlights previously unknown biological pathways.

Overexpression of alpha-catenin increases osteoblastic differentiation in mouse mesenchymal C3H10T1/2 cells

alpha- and beta-Catenin link cadherins to the actin-based cytoskeleton at adherens junctions and regulate cell-cell adhesion. Although roles of cadherins and canonical Wnt-/beta-catenin-signaling in osteoblastic differentiation have been extensively studied, the role of alpha-catenin is not known. Murine embryonic mesenchymal stem cells, C3H10T1/2 cells, were transduced with retrovirus encoding alpha-catenin (MSCV-alpha-catenin-HA-GFP). In the presence of Wnt-3A conditioned medium or osteogenic medium (beta-glycerol phosphate and ascorbic acid), cells overexpressing alpha-catenin showed enhanced osteoblastic differentiation as measured by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and ALP activity assay compared to cells transduced with empty virus (MSCV-GFP). In addition, mRNA expression of osteocalcin and Runx2 was significantly increased compared to control. Cell aggregation assay revealed that alpha-catenin overexpression has significantly increased cell-cell aggregation. However, cellular beta-catenin levels (total, cytoplasmic-nuclear ratio) and beta-catenin-TCF/LEF transcriptional activity did not change by overexpression of alpha-catenin. Knock-down of alpha-catenin using siRNA decreased osteoblastic differentiation as measured by ALP assay. These results suggest that alpha-catenin overexpression increases osteoblastic differentiation by increasing cell-cell adhesion rather than Wnt-/beta-catenin-signaling.

Age-dependent Wnt gene expression in bone and during the course of osteoblast differentiation

Wnt signaling is vital for osteoblast differentiation and recently has been associated with aging. Because impaired osteoblastogenesis is a cellular characteristic of age-induced bone loss, we investigated whether this process is associated with an altered expression of Wnt signaling-related proteins in bone and osteoblasts. Bone marrow cells were isolated from male C57BL/6 mice, aged 6 weeks, 6 months, and 18 months, respectively. Osteogenic differentiation was induced for 3 weeks and assessed using alizarin red staining. Gene expression of Wnt1, 3a, 4, 5a, 5b, 7b, 9b, 10b, lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP)-5/6, as well as dickkopf-1 (Dkk-1), sclerostin, and secreted frizzled related protein-1 (sFRP-1) was determined in bone tissue and osteoblasts on days 7, 14, and 21 by real-time RT-PCR. Osteoblast differentiation was significantly reduced in aged mice compared with young and adult mice. In bone tissue, expression levels of all genes assessed were decreased in adult and old mice, respectively, compared with young mice. Mature osteoblasts of aged compared with those of young mice showed enhanced expression of Wnt9b, LRP-6, and Dkk-1, and decreased expression of Wnt5a and 7b. In early osteoblasts, mRNA levels of Wnt1, 5a, 5b, and 7b were increased significantly in aged mice. The expression of Wnt3a, 4, LRP-5, and sclerostin was not altered in aged osteoblasts. In conclusion, osteoblastic expression of each Wnt-related protein is regulated individually by aging. The overall decreased expression of Wnt-related proteins in bone tissue of aged mice underlines the newly discovered association of Wnt signaling with aging.

The frizzled-related sFRP2 gene is a target of thyroid hormone receptor alpha1 and activates beta-catenin signaling in mouse intestine

The thyroid hormone receptor TRalpha1 regulates intestinal development and homeostasis by controlling epithelial proliferation in the crypts. This involves positive control of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway. To further investigate the effect of thyroid hormone-TRalpha1 signaling on the intestinal epithelium proliferating compartment, we performed a comparative transcription profile analysis on laser microdissected crypt cells recovered from wild type animals with normal or perturbed hormonal status, as well as from TR knock-out mice. Statistical analysis and an in silico approach allowed us to identify 179 differentially regulated genes and to group them into organized functional networks. We focused on the "cell cycle/cell proliferation" network and, in particular, on the Frizzled-related protein sFRP2, whose expression was greatly increased in response to thyroid hormones. In vitro and in vivo analyses showed that the expression of sFRP2 is directly regulated by TRalpha1 and that it activates beta-catenin signaling via Frizzled receptors. Indeed, sFRP2 stabilizes beta-catenin, activates its target genes, and enhances cell proliferation. In conclusion, these new data, in conjunction with our previous results, indicate a complex interplay between TRalpha1 and components of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway. Moreover, we describe in this study a novel mechanism of action of sFRP2, responsible for the activation of beta-catenin signaling.