The interaction of heparin and basic fibroblast growth factor on collagen synthesis in 21-day fetal rat calvariae

FGF-2 suppresses expression of nephronectin via JNK and PI3K pathways

Nephronectin (Npnt), an extracellular matrix protein, is a ligand for integrin α8β1 and is involved in the development of various organs, such as the kidneys, bones, liver, and muscles. Previously, we found that Npnt expression was inhibited by various cytokines including transforming growth factor‐β (Tgf‐β) and oncostatin M (Osm). Fibroblast growth factor (Fgf)‐2, otherwise known as basic Fgf, also plays important roles in skeletal development and postnatal osteogenesis. In this study, Npnt expression was found to be suppressed by Fgf‐2 in MC3T3‐E1 cells, an osteoblast‐like cell line, in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manners. Furthermore, Fgf‐2‐mediated NpntmRNA suppression was shown to involve the Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) and phosphoinositide‐3 kinase (PI3K) pathways. Together, our results suggest that FGF‐2 suppresses Npnt gene expression via JNK and PI3K pathways.

Fibroblast growth factor-2 and bone morphogenetic protein-2 have a synergistic stimulatory effect on bone formation in cell cultures from elderly mouse and human bone

Combined regimens of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) were investigated to stimulate osteogenic differentiation. In young mouse calvaria-derived cells, FGF-2 (0.16ng/mL) in combination with BMP-2 (50ng/mL) did not enhance mineralization, but in old mouse cells it resulted in more mineralization than BMP-2 alone. In young long bone mouse cultures, FGF-2 enhanced mineralization relative to BMP-2 alone, but in old cultures, lower dose of FGF-2 (0.016ng/mL) was necessary. In neonatal mouse calvarial cells, sequential delivery of low-dose FGF-2 and low-dose BMP-2 (5ng/mL) was more stimulatory than co-delivery. In young human cultures, 0.016ng/mL of FGF-2 did not enhance mineralization, in combination with 5ng/mL of BMP-2, but in older cultures, codelivery of FGF-2 and BMP-2 was superior to BMP-2 alone. In conclusion, BMP-2 treatment alone was sufficient for maximal mineralization in young osteoblast cultures. However, coadministration of FGF-2 and BMP-2 increases mineralization more than BMP-2 alone in cultures from old and young mouse long bones and old humans but not in young mouse calvarial cultures.

Fibroblast growth factor-2 stimulates the proliferation of mesenchyme-derived progenitor cells from aging mouse and human bone

The potential of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) to stimulate osteoprogenitors in aging bone was investigated. Previous work showed a decrease in bone formation in cell cultures derived from bone of elderly female patients, but not in cells from age-matched male or younger female patients, with transforming growth factor β increasing bone formation but not increasing osteoprogenitors. In the present study, FGF-2 was shown to significantly stimulate, in a dose-dependent manner, proliferation of mesenchyme-derived progenitor cells from bones of young and old mouse and humans. In proliferation assays, human cells were more responsive to lower concentrations (0.0016 ng/mL) of FGF-2 than mouse cells, but proliferation was less in cells from older bone. Immunofluorescence microscopy revealed that FGF-2 increased and prevented the decline in cells expressing activated leukocyte cell adhesion molecule, a novel marker for early lineage osteoblasts, but not α-smooth muscle actin. FGF-2 may have therapeutic potential for stimulating osteoblast progenitors in aging.

Effect of chondroitin sulfate-E on the osteoclastic differentiation of RAW264 cells

The present study was designed to investigate whether chondroitin sulfate (CS)-E, a CS structural isomer variant, alter the differentiation of macrophage cell line RAW264 cells to osteoclast-like cells. CS-B, CS-E, low molecular weight CS-E, synthetic chondroitin polysulfate (CPS) and heparin significantly inhibited the formation of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-positive multinuclear cells and pit formation on calcium phosphate (CaP)-coated plates. CS-E pre-coated on the CaP plate also inhibited pit formation. Digestion of CS on the cell surface by chondroitinase showed no effect on the osteoclastic differentiation of RAW264 cells whereas inhibitory effect on the differentiation of osteoblastic cell line MC3T3-E1. On the other hand, exogenously added fluorescein-labeled CS-E directory bound to fibronectin and RAW264 cells. These results suggest that CS-E structure on the surface of osteoblasts or bone matrix binds to cell adhesion molecule such as integrin on the pre-osteoclastic cells and inhibits the differentiation into osteoclasts. CS-E may have a potential in treating bone defect if combined with CaP materials.

Benzyl butyl phthalate influences actin distribution and cell proliferation in rat Py1a osteoblasts

We previously reported that transient administration of phthalates induced actin cytoskeleton disruption in Py1a osteoblasts. However, the mechanism of this transient effect was not elucidated. In this study we provided evidence that the actin cytoskeletal re-established conditions are dependent on new actin expression and synthesis. To assess the role of phthalates in modulating the distribution of actin, confocal and electron microscopy studies were carried out. Results indicated a modification of actin distribution after phthalate administration. In addition, a relation with the nucleoskeletal component lamin A supports the hypothesis that phthalates may participate in regulatory cell processes involving actin in Py1a osteoblasts. The present study also supports the mitogenic effects of phthalates, which involve microfilament disruption, nuclear actin and lamin A. In particular, the increased levels of cyclin D3, which in mammalian cells plays a critical role in G1 to S transition and is a putative proto-oncogene in benzyl butyl phthalate treated cells, suggested a possible effect of the endocrine disruptor in cancer processes.

Fidgetin-like 1 gene inhibited by basic fibroblast growth factor regulates the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts

The FIGNL1 gene was proven to be a new subfamily member of ATPases associated with diverse cellular activities (AAA proteins). In this in vitro study, the AAA proteins inhibited osteoblast proliferation and stimulated osteoblast differentiation. We showed that FIGNL1 may play some regulatory role in osteoblastogenesis.

INTRODUCTION

The fidgetin-like 1 (FIGNL1) gene encodes a new subfamily member of ATPases associated with diverse cellular activities (AAA proteins). Although the FIGNL1 protein localizes to both the nucleus and cytoplasm, the function of FIGNL1 remains unknown. In a previous study, we identified several genes that mediate the anabolic effects of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on bone by using microarray data. FIGNL1 was one of the genes that downregulated >2-fold in MC3T3-E1 cells after treatment with bFGF. Therefore, this study was aimed to identify and confirm the function of FIGNL1 on osteoblastogenesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We examined the effect of the FIGNL1 gene on proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis in mouse osteoblast cells (MC3T3-E1 and mouse primary calvarial cells) using flow cytometry, RT-PCR, cell proliferation assay, and cell death assay. MC3T3-E1 cells and mouse calvarial cells were transfected with small interfering RNA (siRNA) directed against the FIGNL1 or nontargeting control siRNA and examined by cell proliferation and cell death assays. Also, FIGNL1 was fused to enhance green fluorescent protein (EGFP), and the EGFP-fused protein was transiently expressed in MC3T3-E1 cells.

RESULTS

Reduced expression of FIGNL1 by bFGF and TGF-beta1 treatment was verified by RT-PCR analysis. Overexpression of FIGNL1 reduced the proliferation of MC3T3-E1 and calvarial cells, more than the mock transfected control cells did. In contrast, siFIGNL1 transfection significantly increased the proliferation of osteoblasts, whereas overexpression of FIGNL1 did not seem to alter apoptosis in osteoblasts. Meanwhile, overexpression of FIGNL1 enhanced the mRNA expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin (OCN) in osteoblasts. In contrast, siFIGNL1 decreased the expression of ALP and OCN. A pEGFP-FIGNL1 transfected into MCT3-E1 cells had an initially ubiquitous distribution and rapidly translocated to the nucleus 1 h after bFGF treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

From these results, we proposed that FIGNL1, a subfamily member of the AAA family of proteins, might play some regulatory role in osteoblast proliferation and differentiation. Further analyses of FIGNL1 will be needed to better delineate the mechanisms contributing to the inhibition of proliferation and stimulation of osteoblast differentiation.

Local application of recombinant human fibroblast growth factor-2 on bone repair: a dose-escalation prospective trial on patients with osteotomy

Based on preclinical evidence in animal models, the present study examined the clinical efficacy and safety of recombinant human fibroblast growth factor-2 (rhFGF-2) to accelerate bone repair in a dose-escalation prospective trial. One of three dosages (200, 400 or 800 microg) of rhFGF-2 in a biodegradable gelatin hydrogel was injected during surgery into the osteotomy site of 59 knee osteoarthritis patients undergoing high tibial osteotomy, and 57 of them were monitored for 16 weeks. The rhFGF-2 dose dependently increased the percentage of patients with radiographic bone union, and decreased the average time needed for such union. The percentages of patients with an absence of pain and full-weight bearing were also greater in the higher dosage groups than in the low dosage group, especially in the clinically critical periods 6, 8, and 10 weeks. Neither blood chemistries nor clinical adverse events were associated with the rhFGF-2 dosages. We therefore conclude that the rhFGF-2 in gelatin hydrogel dose dependently accelerated radiographic bone union of a surgical osteotomy with a safety profile at least at the dosages used, suggesting the clinical efficacy of this agent for bone repair.

Heparin synergistically enhances interleukin-11 signaling through up-regulation of the MAPK pathway

Using an animal model of heparin-induced osteoporosis we previously demonstrated that heparin causes bone loss, in part, by increasing osteoclast number and activity. Furthermore, we found that, although heparin alone has no effect, it is able to synergistically enhance Interleukin-11 (IL-11)-induced signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activation and thus increase osteoclast formation in vitro. In the present study, we examine the effect of various serine kinase inhibitors on the ability of heparin to act synergistically with IL-11. Inhibition of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), or the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathways had no effect on the ability of heparin to promote either IL-11-induced STAT3.DNA complex formation or osteoclast formation in vitro. In contrast, PD098059, a MAPK kinase inhibitor, completely abolished the synergy between heparin and IL-11. In an attempt to resolve the mechanism by which this was occurring, we examined the effect of heparin on STAT3 Ser-727 phosphorylation and extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (Erk1/2) activation, either in the presence or absence of IL-11. Heparin alone was found to have no effect on Ser-727 phosphorylation, nor did heparin alter the phosphorylation status of Ser-727 in the presence of IL-11. Heparin was, however, found to increase Erk1/2 activation in both a time- and dose-dependent manner. When taken together, these findings suggest that heparin enhances IL-11-induced STAT3 activation and thus osteoclast formation, by a mechanism that is independent of STAT3 Ser-727 phosphorylation but that involves up-regulation of the MAPK pathway.

Bone morphogenetic protein-2 counterregulates interleukin-18 mRNA and protein in MC3T3-E1 mouse osteoblastic cells

Fibroblast growth factors-2 (FGF-2) and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) are two of the main factors that regulate differentiation of osteoblasts. Interleukin-18 (IL-18), originally cloned as an interferon gamma-inducing factor, has been reported to inhibit maturation of osteoclasts by upregulation of osteoprotegerin secreted from osteoblasts. Little is known about the functional relationship between IL-18 and the two growth factors in osteoblast differentiation. To better understand this relationship, we analyzed the effect of BMP-2 and FGF-2 on the mRNA expression levels of IL-18, as well as IL-1alpha and IL-6, in MC3T3-E1 mouse osteoblastic cells. Following this, the effects of BMP-2 on the expression of IL-18 protein and caspase-1 protein were analyzed by immunofluorescence staining. Real-time PCR and immunofluorescence staining analysis showed that FGF-2 had no effect on the expression of IL-18 mRNA and protein, but while BMP-2 reduced IL-18 mRNA levels, increased immunostaining of both IL-18 protein and caspase-1 protein was detected in BMP-2-treated MC3T3-E1 cells. Although the significance and mechanisms of this counterregulation of IL-18 mRNA and protein were not determined in this study, the increase of IL-18 protein suggested that BMP-2 may induce an active form of IL-18.

FGF-2 Acts through an ERK1/2 Intracellular Pathway to Affect Osteoblast Differentiation

An abundance of genetic and experimental data have suggested that fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling plays a central role in physiological and pathological cranial suture fusion. Although alterations in the differentiation and proliferation of sutural osteoblasts may be a key mediator of this process, the mechanisms by which FGF signaling regulates osteoblast differentiation remain incompletely understood. In the current study, the authors show that recombinant human FGF-2 alters osteoblastic expression of bone morphogenetic protein-2 and Msx-2 in vitro to favor cellular differentiation and osteoinduction. The ERK1/2 intracellular signaling cascade was shown to be necessary for recombinant human FGF-2-mediated bone morphogenetic protein-2 transcriptional changes. Furthermore, the cellular production of an intermediate transcriptional modifier was found to be necessary for the recombinant human FGF-2-mediated gene expression changes in bone morphogenetic protein-2 and Msx-2. Together, these findings offer new insight into the mechanisms by which FGF-2 modulates osteoblast biology.

Low doses and high doses of heparin have different effects on osteoblast-like Saos-2 cells in vitro

Long-term treatment with heparin has been associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis. Given the importance of heparan sulfate proteoglycans for bone metabolism, it can be anticipated that heparin due to its structural similarity with heparan sulfate chains somehow interferes with the biological activities of these cell surface- and extracellular matrix-associated molecules. Initially in order to study the effect(s) of heparin on osteoblasts that possibly contribute to the development of heparin-induced osteoporosis, we treated osteoblast-like Saos-2 cells in monolayer culture for different periods of time with different concentrations of heparin. None of the heparin concentrations tested led to an inhibition of osteoblast proliferation during the early proliferative phase. After longer incubation times, however, cultures treated with higher concentrations of heparin (>/=5 microg/ml) exhibited a reduction in cell number as well as an inhibition of matrix deposition and mineralization. These effects could not be observed with lower heparin concentrations. On the contrary, low concentrations of heparin (5-500 ng/ml) even promoted matrix deposition and its subsequent mineralization. Apparently, heparin has a biphasic effect on osteoblast-like Saos-2 cells, being inhibitory at high concentrations but stimulatory at low concentrations. These results imply that heparin at concentrations well below those used for antithrombotic therapy might eventually turn out to be beneficial for bone formation.

Heparin acts synergistically with interleukin-11 to induce STAT3 activation and in vitro osteoclast formation

We have previously demonstrated that long-term heparin treatment causes cancellous bone loss in rats due in part to an increase in the number of osteoclasts lining the trabecular bone surface. In the present study, we investigated this phenomenon by examining the ability of heparin to synergistically enhance interleukin-11 (IL-11)-induced osteoclast formation. Treatment of murine calvaria and bone marrow cells with IL-11 was found to induce the formation of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-positive (TRAP(+)) multinucleated cells (MNCs) in a dose-dependent fashion. No effect was seen when cocultures were treated with heparin alone. However, when cocultures were treated with both IL-11 and heparin, IL-11's ability to induce TRAP(+) MNC formation was enhanced 6-fold. In an attempt to resolve the mechanism responsible for this effect, we examined the ability of heparin to influence IL-11 signaling using murine calvaria cells. Heparin was found to enhance both IL-11-induced STAT3-DNA complex formation and transactivation without altering either STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription-3) tyrosine or serine phosphorylation. Heparin was also found to enhance IL-11's ability to induce the expression of both receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL) and glycoprotein (gp) 130. When taken together, these findings suggest a plausible mechanism by which heparin may cause increased osteoclastogenesis and therefore bone loss when administered long-term.

Inhibitory effect of bFGF on endochondral heterotopic ossification

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is reported to stimulate repair of fracture and bony defects in in vivo animal studies. However, most studies performed in vitro demonstrate inhibitory effect of bFGF on cartilage and bone differentiation. To understand the discrepancy observed in in vivo and in vitro studies, we evaluated the effect of bFGF on chondro-osteogenesis initiated by bone matrix powder (MP). MP was implanted in the murine hamstring muscles with or without administration of bFGF. Injection of 1 microg of bFGF markedly reduced the size of heterotopic bone induced by MP, as detected by X-ray. Injection of 10 microg of bFGF completely inhibited ossification and only fibrous tissues were observed at the site of MP implantation. The expressions of alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin mRNAs, markers for bone differentiation, were completely suppressed by 10 microg of bFGF. These results demonstrate the inhibitory effect of bFGF on endochondral ossification in vivo, implicating a precaution for its use in musculo-skeletal disorders.

FGF-2 increases colony formation, PTH receptor, and IGF-1 mRNA in mouse marrow stromal cells

FGF-2 stimulates bone formation in vitro and in vivo in rats. However, there are limited studies in mice and no data on the mechanism(s) by which FGF-2 induces bone formation. We assessed whether short-term FGF-2 treatment of marrow stromal cells from young mice would increase alkaline phosphatase-positive (ALP), mineralized colony formation and expression of genes important in osteoblast maturation. Short-term treatment with FGF-2 (0.01-1.0 nM) for the first 3 days of a 14- or 21-day culture period increased the number of ALP mineralized colonies in bone marrow stromal cells. FGF-2 (0.1 nM) increased the mRNAs for type 1 collagen: osteocalcin, runt domain/core binding factor, PTH/PTHR receptor, and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) at 14 and 21 days. We conclude that short-term FGF-2 treatment enhances osteoblast maturation in vitro. Furthermore, the anabolic effect of FGF-2 may be attributed in part to regulation of IGF-1 in osteoblasts.

Disruption of the fibroblast growth factor-2 gene results in decreased bone mass and bone formation

Basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2), an important modulator of cartilage and bone growth and differentiation, is expressed and regulated in osteoblastic cells. To investigate the role of FGF-2 in bone, we examined mice with a disruption of the Fgf2 gene. Measurement of trabecular bone architecture of the femoral metaphysis of Fgf2(+/+) and Fgf2(-/-) adult mice by micro-CT revealed that the platelike trabecular structures were markedly reduced and many of the connecting rods of trabecular bone were lost in the Fgf2(-/-) mice. Dynamic histomorphometry confirmed a significant decrease in trabecular bone volume, mineral apposition, and bone formation rates. In addition, there was a profound decreased mineralization of bone marrow stromal cultures from Fgf2(-/-) mice. This study provides strong evidence that FGF-2 helps determine bone mass as well as bone formation.

Direct and indirect actions of fibroblast growth factor 2 on osteoclastic bone resorption in cultures

Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2 or basic FGF) is known to show variable actions on bone formation and bone resorption. This study was undertaken to elucidate the mechanisms whereby FGF-2 affects bone metabolism, especially bone resorption, using three different culture systems. FGF-2 at 10(-9) M and higher concentrations induced osteoclastic cell formation in the coculture system of mouse osteoblastic cells and bone marrow cells, and this induction was abrogated by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). 45Ca release from prelabeled cultured mouse calvariae stimulated by FGF-2 (10(-8) M) was also inhibited by NSAIDs, and the inhibition was stronger by NSAIDs, which are more selective for inhibition of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) than COX-1, suggesting the mediation of COX-2 induction. COX-2 was highly expressed and its messenger RNA (mRNA) level was stimulated by FGF-2 in osteoblastic cells whereas it was undetectable or not stimulated by FGF-2 in cells of osteoclast lineage. To further investigate the direct actions of FGF-2 on osteoclasts, resorbed pit formation was compared between cultures of purified osteoclasts and unfractionated bone cells from rabbit long bones. FGF-2 (> or = 10(-12) M) stimulated resorbed pit formation by purified osteoclasts with a maximum effect of 2.0-fold at 10(-11) M, and no further stimulation was observed at higher concentrations. However, FGF-2 at 10(-9) M - 10(-8) M stimulated resorbed pit formation by unfractionated bone cells up to 9.7-fold. NS-398, a specific COX-2 inhibitor, did not affect the FGF-2 stimulation on purified osteoclasts but inhibited that on unfractionated bone cells. We conclude that FGF-2 at low concentrations (> or =10(-12) M) acts directly on mature osteoclasts to resorb bone moderately, whereas at high concentrations (> or = 10(-9) M) it acts on osteoblastic cells to induce COX-2 and stimulates bone resorption potently.

Basic fibroblast growth factor induces osteoclast formation by reciprocally regulating the production of osteoclast differentiation factor and osteoclastogenesis inhibitory factor in mouse osteoblastic cells

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) induced osteoclast formation in co-cultures of mouse spleen cells and osteoblasts. Osteoclastogenesis inhibitory factor (OCIF) and a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor, NS-398, abolished bFGF-induced osteoclast formation. bFGF did not affect spleen cells, but it did affect osteoblasts, to stimulate osteoclast formation. Northern blot analysis revealed that bFGF up-regulated the expression of osteoclast differentiation factor (ODF) and COX-2 and down-regulated the expression of OCIF in primary osteoblastic cells. NS-398 abolished the increase of ODF mRNA, but it had no effect on the decrease of OCIF mRNA. NS-398 suppressed the binding of (125)I-labeled OCIF to osteoblastic cells treated with bFGF. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed that bFGF inhibited OCIF production by osteoblastic cells, and the inhibition was not affected by NS-398. We conclude that bFGF induces osteoclast formation by stimulating ODF production through COX-2-mediated prostaglandin synthesis and by suppressing OCIF production through a mechanism independent of prostaglandin synthesis.

Basic fibroblast growth factor inhibits osteoclast formation induced by 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) through suppressing the production of osteoclast differentiation factor

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) inhibited osteoclast-like cell (OCL) formation in cocultures of mouse spleen cells with either osteoblasts or a stromal cell line, ST2, in the presence of 1alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) [1,25(OH)(2)D(3)]. bFGF directly acted on osteoblasts/stromal cells, but not osteoclast progenitors, to inhibit 1,25(OH)(2)D(3)-induced OCL formation. bFGF suppressed the mRNA expression of osteoclast differentiation factor (ODF) but did not affect that of osteoclastogenesis inhibitory factor (OCIF) in ST2 cells treated with 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) and dexamethasone. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed that bFGF hardly affected OCIF production in the treated ST2 cells. A genetically engineered soluble form of ODF, but not anti-OCIF neutralizing antibody, abolished bFGF-mediated inhibition of OCL formation. bFGF suppressed the binding of (125)I-labeled OCIF to both ST2 cells and osteoblasts treated with 1,25(OH)(2)D(3). These findings indicate that bFGF inhibits 1,25(OH)(2)D(3)-induced OCL formation via suppression of ODF production by osteoblasts/stromal cells.

Decreased proliferation and altered differentiation in osteoblasts from genetically and clinically distinct craniosynostotic disorders

Craniosynostoses are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by premature fusion of cranial sutures. Mutations in fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) have been associated with a number of such conditions. Nevertheless, the cellular mechanism(s) involved remain unknown. We analyzed cell proliferation and differentiation in osteoblasts obtained from patients with three genetically and clinically distinct craniosynostoses: Pfeiffer syndrome carrying the FGFR2 C342R substitution, Apert syndrome with FGFR2 P253R change, and a nonsyndromic craniosynostosis without FGFR canonic mutations, as compared with control osteoblasts. Osteoblasts from craniosynostotic patients exhibited a lower proliferation rate than control osteoblasts. P253R and nonsyndromic craniosynostosis osteoblasts showed a marked differentiated phenotype, characterized by high alkaline phosphatase activity, increased mineralization and expression of noncollagenous matrix proteins, associated with high expression and activation of protein kinase Calpha and protein kinase Cepsilon isoenzymes. By contrast, the low proliferation rate of C342R osteoblasts was not associated with a differentiated phenotype. Although they showed higher alkaline phosphatase activity than control, C342R osteoblasts failed to mineralize and expressed low levels of osteopontin and osteonectin and high protein kinase Czeta levels. Stimulation of proliferation and inhibition of differentiation were observed in all cultures on FGF2 treatment. Our results suggest that an anticipated proliferative/differentiative switch, associated with alterations of the FGFR transduction pathways, could be the causative common feature in craniosynostosis and that mutations in distinct FGFR2 domains are associated with an in vitro heterogeneous differentiative phenotype.

Single local injection of recombinant fibroblast growth factor-2 stimulates healing of segmental bone defects in rabbits

The effects of a single local injection of recombinant human fibroblast growth factor-2 on the healing of segmental bone defects were evaluated in rabbits. One month after the external fixator originally designed for this experiment was installed in the tibia of the rabbit, a 3-mm bone defect was created by an osteotomy in the middle of the tibia and 0, 50, 100, 200, or 400 microg of fibroblast growth factor-2 in 100 microl of saline solution was injected into the defect. Injection of the growth factor increased the volume and mineral content of newly made bone at the defect in a dose-dependent manner with significant effects at concentrations of 100 microg or greater. These significant effects were observed at 5 weeks and later. One hundred micrograms of the growth factor increased the volume and mineral content of newly made bone by 95 and 36%, respectively, at 5 weeks. These results indicate that a single local injection of fibroblast growth factor-2 stimulates the healing of segmental defects. We speculate that such an injection could be clinically useful for the healing of fractures even when the fracture gap is rather large.

Basic fibroblast growth factor decreases type V/XI collagen expression in cultured bovine aortic smooth muscle cells

Vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs), the major cellular constituent of an artery, synthesize the bulk of fibrillar collagens, including type V/XI, which regulates heterotypic collagen fibril assembly. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is a heparin-binding polypeptide growth factor that has been implicated in important events during the development of atherosclerosis, such as early intimal SMC proliferation. Here we have investigated the effects of bFGF on aortic SMC expression of type V/XI collagen. Treatment of exponentially growing or serum-deprived subconfluent cultures of bovine aortic SMCs with bFGF decreased the steady-state levels of the mRNAs for collagen type V/XI, including alpha 1(V), alpha 2(V), and alpha 1(XI). The effect of bFGF was time dependent with a two- and a fourfold decrease in alpha 2(V) mRNA observed after treatment for 24 and 48 h, respectively. This decrease resulted from a drop in the rate of alpha 2(V) gene transcription; no change was observed in the stability of the alpha 2(V) mRNA. Furthermore, accumulation of collagen protein decreased upon bFGF treatment. As expected, treatment with bFGF increased the rate of proliferation of serum-deprived SMCs, as judged by DNA content in the cultures, thymidine incorporation, and steady-state mRNA levels of the S-phase-expressed histone H3.2. These results suggest that bFGF plays an important role in the regulation of collagen fibril structure, with potential implications for the development and organization of an atherosclerotic lesion.

Stimulation of bone formation by intraosseous application of recombinant basic fibroblast growth factor in normal and ovariectomized rabbits

The effect on intraosseous bone formation of a single local injection of recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor into the distal femur was examined in normal and ovariectomized rabbits. In normal rabbits, basic fibroblast growth factor increased bone mineral density around the injected site in a dose-dependent manner at 4 weeks, with significant effects at concentrations of 400 micrograms and greater. Doses of 400 and 1,600 micrograms of basic fibroblast growth factor increased bone mineral density by 8 and 9%, respectively, compared with the opposite control femur. Histological examination showed that basic fibroblast growth factor (400 micrograms) induced the proliferation or recruitment of undifferentiated mesenchymal cells around the existing trabeculae at 3 days after the injection. For the first 2 weeks, osteoid formation was strongly stimulated, and this was followed by mineral apposition for another 2 weeks, at which time the femurs were harvested. Consequently, basic fibroblast growth factor stimulated intraosseous bone formation at 4 weeks. We speculate that the direct action of basic fibroblast growth factor on bone formation may be to stimulate proliferation or recruitment of minimally differentiated mesenchymal cells and to initiate the cascade of events in later stages of bone formation. In ovariectomized rabbits, basic fibroblast growth factor (400 micrograms) also increased bone mineral density, histomorphometrical bone formation markers, and trabecular connectivity to levels similar to those in rabbits who had received sham operations.

Regulation of NFIL-6 and IL-6 expression by basic fibroblast growth factor in osteoblasts

We determined whether basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) regulated the expression of IL-6 and NFIL-6 in osteoblasts. In mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells, bFGF (10(-8) M) increased NFIL-6 mRNA 2-fold at 30 minutes and 3-fold at 2 h. IL-6 mRNA was increased by bFGF 10(-8) M after 1 h. IL-6 protein was detectable in control cultures but was significantly increased by bFGF (10(-8) M) at 4 h. Immunofluorescence analysis of MC3T3-E1 cells showed primarily cytoplasmic and perinuclear NFIL-6 staining in control cultures while bFGF-treated cells showed increased NFIL-6 staining at 2 and 4 h. Western blotting revealed that bFGF increased NFIL-6 protein at 2 h. In calvarial mouse osteoblasts, bFGF 10(-8) M induced IL-6 mRNA as early as 1 h and significantly increased IL-6 protein levels as early as 2 h. In conclusion, bFGF stimulates IL-6 and NFIL-6 mRNA in osteoblasts. The increase in NFIL-6 mRNA was associated with increased NFIL-6 protein. The increase in IL-6 mRNA was also associated with increased IL-6 protein. We propose that activations of NFIL-6 and IL-6 may be important mediators of the effects of bFGF on bone cells.

Regulation of lysyl oxidase by basic fibroblast growth factor in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells

Lysyl oxidase catalyzes the final known enzymatic step required for collagen and elastin cross-linking. A cross-linked collagenous extracellular matrix is required for bone formation. This study investigated whether lysyl oxidase, like its type I collagen substrate, is down-regulated by basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells and determined the degree of post-transcriptional control. Steady-state lysyl oxidase mRNA levels decreased to 30% of control after 24 h of treatment with 1 and 10 nm bFGF. This regulation was time-dependent. COL1A1 mRNA levels declined to less than 10% of control after 24 h of bFGF treatment. Media lysyl oxidase activity decreased consistent with steady-state mRNA changes in cultures that were refed after 24 h of growth factor treatment. Interestingly, treatment of MC3T3-E1 cells with 0.01-0.1 nm bFGF for 24 h and treatment with 1 nm bFGF for up to 12 h resulted in a modest stimulation of lysyl oxidase gene expression and enzyme activity. At least 50% of the down-regulation of lysyl oxidase was shown to be posttranscriptional. New protein synthesis was not required for the down-regulation by bFGF, but cycloheximide did increase constitutive lysyl oxidase mRNA levels 2.5-fold. We conclude that lysyl oxidase and COL1A1 are regulated similarly by bFGF in these osteoblastic cells, consistent with the in vivo effects of this growth factor on bone collagen metabolism.

Exogenous fibroblast growth factors-1 and -2 do not accelerate fracture healing in the rabbit

Both fibroblast growth factors-1 (acidic FGF) and -2 (basic FGF) increase the proliferation of osteoblasts and chondrocytes in vitro and FGF-2 stimulates angiogenesis and bone formation in vivo. To test their effects on rabbit tibial fracture-healing under stable and unstable mechanical conditions, 3 micrograms of either FGF-1 or FGF-2 was injected around rabbit tibial fractures on day 4 after fracture. Neither growth factor had a significant effect on either the size of, or the amounts of bone and cartilage in, the 10-day callus irrespective of the mechanical conditions under which the fracture was healing. The 10-day FGF-2-treated calluses were, however, more mature than FGF-1-treated calluses because the cartilage was separated from the periosteum by bone and endochondral ossification had progressed further. In conclusion, the application of FGF-1 or FGF-2 to normally healing fractures of the rabbit tibia does not have a significant effect on the rate of healing.

Transcriptional induction of prostaglandin G/H synthase-2 by basic fibroblast growth factor

In serum-free mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells, basic fibroblastic growth factor (bFGF) induced mRNA and protein for prostaglandin G/H synthase-2 (PGHS-2), the major enzyme in arachidonic acid (AA) conversion to prostaglandins. mRNA accumulation peaked at 1 h with bFGF 1 nM. In cells stably transfected with a 371-bp PGHS-2 promoter-luciferase reporter, bFGF stimulated luciferase activity, which peaked at 2-3 h with bFGF 1-10 nM. In the presence of exogenous AA, bFGF stimulated PGE2 production, which paralleled luciferase activity. In serum-free neonatal mouse calvarial cultures, bFGF stimulated PGE2 production in the absence of exogenous AA. bFGF stimulated PGHS-2 mRNA accumulation, which peaked at 2-4 h and then decreased; there were later mRNA elevations at 48 and 96 h that were inhibited by indomethacin. In both MC3T3-E1 cells and neonatal calvariae, bFGF produced smaller and slower increases in PGHS-1 mRNA levels than for PGHS-2. bFGF stimulated bone resorption in mouse calvariae with a maximal increase of 80% at 1 nM. Stimulation was partially inhibited by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. We conclude that bFGF rapidly stimulates PGE2 production in osteoblasts, largely through transcriptional regulation of PGHS-2, and that prostaglandins mediate some of bFGF's effects on bone resorption.

Basic fibroblast growth factor regulates IGF-I binding proteins in the clonal osteoblastic cell line MC3T3-E1

In previous studies, we reported that basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) regulates insulin-like growth factor messenger RNAs and protein levels in the osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells. In the present study, we examined the expression of insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) in MC3T3-E1 cells and determined whether bFGF altered IGFBP mRNAs and protein levels. Since previous studies suggested that IGFBPs can inhibit DNA synthesis stimulated by IGF-I, we wondered whether the mitogenic effect of bFGF was altered by exogenous IGFBP-3. Confluent MC3T3-E1 cells were serum-deprived for 24 h and then treated with bFGF for 6-24 h. In control cultures, MC3T3-E1 cells expressed the mRNAs for IGF-I, IGF-II, and IGFBP-2, 4, 5, and 6 but not IGFBP-1 or 3. A 24 h treatment with bFGF at 10(-8) M decreased IGF-I mRNA by 97%, IGF-II mRNA by 73%, IGFBP-2 by 64%, IGFBP-4 by 73%, IGFBP-5 by 95%, and IGFBP-6 by 65%. The inhibitory effect of bFGF on IGF-I and IGFBP mRNA levels was not altered by aphidicolin, an inhibitor of cell replication. bFGF 10 nM decreased IGF-I levels determined by radioimmunoassay after acidification by 45% and 72% at 24 and 48 h, respectively. Western ligand blot for IGF binding proteins revealed that MC3T3-E1 cells expressed IGFBPs of 24, 30, and 34 kD. Treatment with bFGF 10(-8) M decreased the levels of the 24 and 30 kD band at 24 h but increased the 34 kD band.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Immunohistochemical localization of heparan sulfate proteoglycan in rat tibiae

Ultrastructural and immunohistochemical studies were performed to clarify the localization of heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) and their role in cell-cell and/or cell-matrix interaction of bone cells. Ultrastructural observations using the freeze-substitution method revealed electron-dense undercoat structures on the cytoplasmic side of plasma membranes and extracellular matrices in the intercellular spaces where stromal cells came in contact with hematopoietic cells and/or osteoclasts. Immunohistochemical localization of HSPG in rat tibiae was examined using monoclonal antibody directed to glycosaminoglycan of HSPG by confocal laser scanning microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Intense immunoreactivity was detected on the basement membranes of blood vessels, as well as the plasma membranes of fibroblast-like cells surrounding them. Immunoreactivity was also seen on extracellular matrices between fibroblast-like cells and osteoclast lineage cells. In addition, osteoblasts showed moderate immunoreactivity on those plasma membranes attached to bone matrix. A postembedding method revealed gold particles in Golgi vacuoles of osteoblasts, indicating the localization of HSPG. In osteoclasts, HSPG was localized in Golgi apparatus and lysosomal structures. These findings suggest that (1) osteoblasts and osteoclast lineage cells synthesize HSPG; (2) both membrane and matrix HSPG are localized in bone tissue; and (3) HSPG may play an important role in cell-cell interaction between fibroblast-like cells and osteoclast lineage cells by reserving heparin binding growth factors and/or heparin binding adhesion molecules, such as fibronectin.

Bone cell biology: new approaches and unanswered questions

In an effort to define the major unanswered questions in bone cell biology and suggest new approaches to answering these questions, I have outlined the bone remodeling cycle and briefly described the major local and systemic factors that regulate bone cell function. These factors include calcium-regulating and systemic hormones as well as locally produced prostaglandins, cytokines, and growth factors. To understand the individual roles of this large number of regulators, it will be necessary to develop new approaches to measure their production and activity in bone under physiologic and pathologic conditions. Quantitative methods in molecular and cellular biology have been developed that should make this identification possible.