Osteocalcin: characterization and regulated expression of the rat gene

A novel hydrogel scaffold contained bioactive glass nanowhisker (BGnW) for osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) in vitro

Employing hydrogels as an alternative strategy for repairing bone defects has received great attention in bone tissue engineering. In this study, hydrogel scaffold based on collagen, gelatin, and glutaraldehyde was combined with bioactive glass nanowhiskers (BGnW) to differentiate human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) into the osteogenic lineage and inducing biomineralization. Pure Gel-Glu-Col and bioactive glass nanowhiskers were used as control throughout the paper. Chemical, physical and morphological characteristics of the nanocomposite scaffold were assessed meticulously using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), porosity measurement, water uptake ability, tensile test, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). To determine the cytotoxicity and cell viability of the hydrogel, MTT assay and Acridine orange (AO) staining were performed. hMSCs seeded on Gel-Glu-Col/BGnW were then incubated with osteogenic differentiation media for 14 days. Biomineralization assays (alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, calcium content assay, von Kossa, and Alizarin red staining) were carried out, and osteogenic genes and protein markers were examined using real time-PCR and immunocytochemistry. Results showed that the components of the hydrogel were properly integrated. The mechanical property of hydrogel was enhanced following the addition of BGnW. Cell viability assays confirmed the biocompatibility of the scaffold and increasing the proliferation after incorporating BGnW into pure Ge1-Glu-Col. Our nanocomposite maintained an enhanced ability of biomineralization as compared to its pure counterparts. Molecular investigations revealed an elevated level of osteogenic markers as compared to Ge1-Glu-Col and BGnW. All in all, Gel-Glu-Col/BGnW seems to be a potential candidate for the regeneration of bone tissue.

Superior biocompatibility and comparable osteoinductive properties: Sodium-reduced fluoride-containing bioactive glass belonging to the CaO-MgO-SiO2 system as a promising alternative to 45S5 bioactive glass

Bioactive glasses (BGs) are promising bone substitute materials. However, under certain circumstances BGs such as the well-known 45S5 Bioglass® (composition in wt%: 45.0 SiO₂, 24.5 Na₂O, 24.5 CaO, 6.0 P₂O₅) act cytotoxic due to a strong increase in pH caused by a burst release of sodium ions. A potential alternative is a sodium-reduced fluoride-containing BG belonging to the CaO–MgO–SiO₂ system, namely BG1d-BG (composition in wt%: 46.1 SiO₂, 28.7 CaO, 8.8 MgO, 6.2 P₂O₅, 5.7 CaF₂, 4.5 Na₂O), that has already been evaluated in-vitro, in-vivo and in preliminary clinical trials. Before further application, however, BG1d-BG should be compared to the benchmark amongst BGs, the 45S5 Bioglass® composition, to classify its effect on cell viability, proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Therefore, in this study, the biocompatibility and osteogenic potential of both BGs were investigated in an indirect and direct culture setting to assess the effect of the ionic dissolution products and the BGs’ physical presence on the cells. The results indicated an advantage of BG1d-BG over 45S5 Bioglass® regarding cell viability and proliferation. Both BGs induced an earlier onset of osteogenic differentiation and accelerated the expression of late osteoblast marker genes compared to the control group. In conclusion, BG1d-BG is an attractive candidate for further experimental investigation. The basic mechanisms behind the different impact on cell behavior should be assessed in further detail, e.g. by further alteration of the BG compositions.

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45S5 Bioglass® is considered to be the benchmark amongst bioactive glasses (BGs).

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Sodium-reduced fluoride-containing BG1d BG was compared to 45S5-Bioglass®.

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Both BGs induced osteogenic differentiation of human MSCs.

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BG1d had an advantageous impact on cell viability and proliferation.

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BG1d-BG is an attractive candidate for further experimental investigation.

Evaluation of Proliferation and Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Porous Scaffolds

INTRODUCTION

Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) are multiple potential stem cells that can differentiate into various kinds of functional cells, including adipocytes, osteoblasts, and chondroblasts. Thus, UCMSCs have recently been used in both stem cell therapy and tissue engineering applications to produce various functional tissues. This study aimed to evaluate the proliferation and differentiation of UCMSCs on porous scaffolds.

METHODS

UCMSCs were established in a previous study and kept in liquid nitrogen. They were thawed and expanded in vitro to yield enough cells for further experiments. The cells were characterized as having MSC phenotype. They were seeded onto culture medium-treated porous scaffolds or on non-treated porous scaffolds at different densities of UCMSCs (10⁵, 2.1 × 10⁵, and 5 × 10⁵ cells/0.005 g scaffold). The existence of UCMSCs on the scaffold was evaluated by nucleic staining using Hoechst 33342 dye, while cell proliferation on the scaffold was determined by MTT assay. Osteogenic differentiation was evaluated by changes in cellular morphology, accumulation of extracellular calcium, and expression of osteoblast-specific genes (including runx2, osteopontin (OPN), and osteocalcin (OCN)).

RESULTS

The data showed that UCMSCs could attach, proliferate, and differentiate on both treated and non-treated scaffolds but were better on the treated scaffold. At a cell density of 10⁵ cells/0.005 g scaffold, the adherent and proliferative abilities of UCMSCs were higher than that of the other densities after 14 days of culture (p < 0.05). Adherent UCMSCs on the scaffold could be induced into osteoblasts in the osteogenic medium after 21 days of induction. These cells accumulated calcium in the extracellular matrix that was positive with Alizarin Red staining. They also expressed some genes related to osteoblasts, including runx2, OPN, and OCN.

CONCLUSION

UCMSCs could adhere, proliferate, and differentiate into osteoblasts on porous scaffolds. Therefore, porous scaffolds (such as Variotis) may be suitable scaffolds for producing bone tissue in combination with UCMSCs.

Biology and Mechanisms of Action of the Vitamin D Hormone

The central role of hormonal 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃ [1,25(OH)₂D₃] is to regulate calcium and phosphorus homeostasis via actions in intestine, kidney, and bone. These and other actions in many cell types not involved in mineral metabolism are mediated by the vitamin D receptor. Recent studies using genome-wide scale techniques have extended fundamental ideas regarding vitamin D-mediated control of gene expression while simultaneously revealing a series of new concepts. This article summarizes the current view of the biological actions of the vitamin D hormone and focuses on new concepts that drive the understanding of the mechanisms through which vitamin D operates.

An overview of osteocalcin progress

An increasing amount of data indicate that osteocalcin is an endocrine hormone which regulates energy metabolism, male fertility and brain development. However, the detailed functions and mechanism of osteocalcin are not well understood and conflicting results have been obtained from researchers worldwide. In the present review, we summarize the progress of osteocalcin studies over the past 40 years, focusing on the structure of carboxylated and undercarboxylated osteocalcin, new functions and putative receptors, the role of osteocalcin in bone remodeling, specific expression and regulation in osteoblasts, and new indices for clinical studies. The complexity of osteocalcin in completely, uncompletely and non-carboxylated forms may account for the discrepancies in its tertiary structure and clinical results. Moreover, the extensive expression of osteocalcin and its putative receptor GPRC6A imply that there are new physiological functions and mechanisms of action of osteocalcin to be explored. New discoveries related to osteocalcin function will assist its potential clinical application and physiological theory, but comprehensive investigations are required.

Dynamic Expression Profiles of Marker Genes in Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Bone Marrow-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells

OBJECTIVE

To observe the expression profiles of osteoblast-related genes in human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from bone marrow during osteogenic differentiation.

METHODS

MSCs were induced to differentiate with MSC osteogenic differentiation medium for 7, 14, 21 and 28 days respectively. Alizarin Red staining was used to detect matrix mineralization. Expression of osteoblast-related genes, including osteocalcin, osteopontin, Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), alkaline phosphatase and collagen type 1, was assessed with quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

On day 14 after induction of differentiation, cells were stained positively with Alizarin Red. The expression levels of these genes exhibited an upward trend as induction time was prolonged. Exposure to osteogenic differentiation medium less than 21 days did not significantly induce osteocalcin expression; osteocalcin expression levels in the differentiated cells induced for 21 and 28 days were 1.63 and 2.46 times as high as the undifferentiated cells respectively (all P<0.05). Stimulation with MSC osteogenic differentiation medium over 14 days significantly enhanced bone marrow-derived MSCs to express osteopontin and Runx2 genes (all P<0.05). Osteogenic differentiation medium could significantly induce the expressions of alkaline phosphatase and collagen type1 genes (all P<0.05). Their expressions reached the peak levels on day 21, which were increased more than 4- and 3-fold respectively.

CONCLUSION

Human bone marrow-derived MSCs could exhibit the sequential expression pattern of osteoblast marker genes during osteogenic differentiation in vitro.

Potential of human fetal chorionic stem cells for the treatment of osteogenesis imperfecta

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic bone pathology with prenatal onset, characterized by brittle bones in response to abnormal collagen composition. There is presently no cure for OI. We previously showed that human first trimester fetal blood mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplanted into a murine OI model (oim mice) improved the phenotype. However, the clinical use of fetal MSC is constrained by their limited number and low availability. In contrast, human fetal early chorionic stem cells (e-CSC) can be used without ethical restrictions and isolated in high numbers from the placenta during ongoing pregnancy. Here, we show that intraperitoneal injection of e-CSC in oim neonates reduced fractures, increased bone ductility and bone volume (BV), increased the numbers of hypertrophic chondrocytes, and upregulated endogenous genes involved in endochondral and intramembranous ossification. Exogenous cells preferentially homed to long bone epiphyses, expressed osteoblast genes, and produced collagen COL1A2. Together, our data suggest that exogenous cells decrease bone brittleness and BV by directly differentiating to osteoblasts and indirectly stimulating host chondrogenesis and osteogenesis. In conclusion, the placenta is a practical source of stem cells for the treatment of OI.

Transcriptomic comparison of osteopontin, osteocalcin and core binding factor 1 genes between human adipose derived differentiated osteoblasts and native osteoblasts

BACKGROUND

There are significant limitations in repair of irrecoverable bone defects. Stem-cell therapy is a promising approach for the construction of bone tissue. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been introduced as basic tools for bone tissue generation. Through MSCs, adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are more interesting. Since the similarity of native osteoblasts and differentiated osteoblasts from ADSCs in terms of gene expression pattern is unknown, this study was designed to compare gene expression patterns of some genes involved in osteogenesis between human native osteoblasts and adipose-derived differentiated osteoblasts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Realtime qRT-PCR was used for studying the gene expression of osteocalcin, osteopontin, and core binding factor alpha 1 (Cbfa1) in human native osteoblasts and adipose derived osteogenic osteoblasts at days 7, 14, 21, and 28 of differentiation.

RESULTS

This study demonstrated that native osteoblasts and differentiated osteoblasts, cultured in common osteogenic medium, have significant differences in gene expression levels for osteocalcin and osteopontin. Compared to native osteoblasts, these genes are expressed lower in all four groups of differentiated osteoblastic cells. We also found, there is a progressive increase in cbfa1 expression over the differentiation period of ADSCs from day 7 to day 28.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings help for better assessment of adipose-derived differentiated cells as a source for cell-based therapy.

Synergistic effect of scaffold composition and dynamic culturing environment in multilayered systems for bone tissue engineering

Bone extracellular matrix (ECM) is composed of mineralized collagen fibrils which support biological apatite nucleation that participates in bone outstanding properties. Understanding and mimicking bone morphological and physiological parameters at a biological scale is a major challenge in tissue engineering scaffolding. Using emergent (nano)technologies scaffold designing may be critically improved, enabling highly functional tissue substitutes for bone applications. This study aims to develop novel biodegradable composite scaffolds of tricalcium phosphate (TCPs) and electrospun nanofibers of poly(ϵ-caprolactone) (PCL), combining TCPs osteoconductivity with PCL biocompatibility and elasticity, mimicking bone structure and composition. We hypothesized that scaffolds with such structure/composition would stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) towards the osteogenic phenotype. Composite scaffolds, developed by electrospining using consecutive stacked layers of PCL and TCPs, were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, X-Ray diffraction and scanning electronic microscopy. Cellular behavior was assessed in goat BMSCs seeded onto composite scaffolds and cultured in static or dynamic conditions, using basal or osteogenic media during 7, 14 or 21 days. Cellular proliferation was quantified and osteogenic differentiation confirmed by alkaline phosphatase activity, alizarin red staining and immunocytochemistry for osteocalcin and collagen I. Results suggest that PCL-TCP scaffolds provide a 3D support for gBMSCs proliferation and osteogenic differentiation with production of ECM. TCPs positively stimulate the osteogenic process, especially under dynamic conditions, where PCL-TCP scaffolds are sufficient to promote osteogenic differentiation even in basal medium conditions. The enhancement of the osteogenic potential in dynamic conditions evidences the synergistic effect of scaffold composition and dynamic stimulation in gBMSCs osteogenic differentiation.

Regulation of ENaC-mediated sodium transport by glucocorticoids in Reissner's membrane epithelium

Reissner's membrane epithelium forms much of the barrier that produces and sustains the large ionic differences between cochlear endolymph and perilymph. We have reported that Reissner's membrane contributes to normal cochlear function by absorbing Na(+) from endolymph via amiloride-sensitive channels in gerbil inner ear. We used mouse Reissner's membrane to 1) identify candidate genes involved in the Na(+) transport pathway, 2) determine whether their level of expression was regulated by the synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone, and 3) obtain functional evidence for the physiological importance of these genes. Transcripts were present for alpha-, beta-, and gamma-subunits of epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC); corticosteroid receptors GR (glucocorticoid receptor) and MR (mineralocorticoid receptor); GR agonist regulator 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD) type 1 (11beta-HSD1); Na(+) transport control components SGK1, Nedd4-2, and WNKs; and K(+) channels and Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase. Expression of the MR agonist regulator 11beta-HSD2 was not detected. Dexamethasone upregulated transcripts for alpha- and beta-subunits of ENaC ( approximately 6- and approximately 3-fold), KCNK1 ( approximately 3-fold), 11beta-HSD1 ( approximately 2-fold), SGK1 ( approximately 2-fold), and WNK4 ( approximately 3-fold). Transepithelial currents from the apical to the basolateral side of Reissner's membrane were sensitive to amiloride (IC(50) approximately 0.7 muM) and benzamil (IC(50) approximately 0.1 muM), but not EIPA (IC(50) approximately 34 muM); amiloride-blocked transepithelial current was not immediately changed by forskolin/IBMX. Currents were reduced by ouabain, lowered bath Na(+) concentration (from 150 to 120 mM), and K(+) channel blockers (XE-991, Ba(2+), and acidification from pH 7.4 to 6.5). Dexamethasone-stimulated current and gene expression were reduced by mifepristone, but not spironolactone. These molecular, pharmacological, and functional observations are consistent with Na(+) absorption by mouse Reissner's membrane, which is mediated by apical ENaC and/or other amiloride-sensitive channels, basolateral Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase, and K(+)-permeable channels and is under the control of glucocorticoids. These results provide an understanding and a molecular definition of an important transport function of Reissner's membrane epithelium in the homeostasis of cochlear endolymph.

Stage-specific secretion of HMGB1 in cartilage regulates endochondral ossification

High mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) is a chromatin protein that has a dual function as a nuclear factor and as an extracellular factor. Extracellular HMGB1 released by damaged cells acts as a chemoattractant, as well as a proinflammatory cytokine, suggesting that HMGB1 is tightly connected to the process of tissue organization. However, the role of HMGB1 in bone and cartilage that undergo remodeling during embryogenesis, tissue repair, and disease is largely unknown. We show here that the stage-specific secretion of HMGB1 in cartilage regulates endochondral ossification. We analyzed the skeletal development of Hmgb1(-/-) mice during embryogenesis and found that endochondral ossification is significantly impaired due to the delay of cartilage invasion by osteoclasts, osteoblasts, and blood vessels. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that HMGB1 protein accumulated in the cytosol of hypertrophic chondrocytes at growth plates, and its extracellular release from the chondrocytes was verified by organ culture. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the chondrocyte-secreted HMGB1 functions as a chemoattractant for osteoclasts and osteoblasts, as well as for endothelial cells, further supporting the conclusion that Hmgb1(-/-) mice are defective in cell invasion. Collectively, these findings suggest that HMGB1 released from differentiating chondrocytes acts, at least in part, as a regulator of endochondral ossification during osteogenesis.

Epidermal growth factor receptor-deficient mice have delayed primary endochondral ossification because of defective osteoclast recruitment

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its ligands function in diverse cellular functions including cell proliferation, differentiation, motility, and survival. EGFR signaling is important for the development of many tissues, including skin, lungs, intestines, and the craniofacial skeleton. We have now determined the role of EGFR signaling in endochondral ossification. We analyzed long bone development in EGFR-deficient mice. EGFR deficiency caused delayed primary ossification of the cartilage anlage and delayed osteoclast and osteoblast recruitment. Ossification of the growth plates was also abnormal resulting in an expanded area of growth plate hypertrophic cartilage and few bony trabeculae. The delayed osteoclast recruitment was not because of inadequate expression of matrix metalloproteinases, including matrix metalloproteinase-9, which have previously been shown to be important for osteoclast recruitment. EGFR was expressed by osteoclasts, suggesting that EGFR ligands may act directly to affect the formation and/or function of these cells. EGFR signaling regulated osteoclast formation. Inhibition of EGFR tyrosine kinase activity decreased the generation of osteoclasts from cultured bone marrow cells.

Vitamin K and bone health

Vitamin K, originally recognised as a factor required for normal blood coagulation, is now receiving more attention in relation to its role in bone metabolism. Vitamin K is a coenzyme for glutamate carboxylase, which mediates the conversion of glutamate to gamma-carboxyglutamate (Gla). Gla residues attract Ca2+ and incorporate these ions into the hydroxyapatite crystals. There are at least three Gla proteins associated with bone tissue, of which osteocalcin is the most abundant and best known. Osteocalcin is the major non-collagenous protein incorporated in bone matrix during bone formation. However, approximately 30% of the newly-produced osteocalcin stays in the circulation where it may be used as an indicator of bone formation. Vitamin K deficiency results in an increase in undercarboxylated osteocalcin, a protein with low biological activity. Several studies have demonstrated that low dietary vitamin K intake is associated with low bone mineral density or increased fractures. Additionally, vitamin K supplementation has been shown to reduce undercarboxylated osteocalcin and improve the bone turnover profile. Some studies have indicated that high levels of undercarboxylated osteocalcin (as a result of low vitamin K intake?) are associated with low bone mineral density and increased hip fracture. The current dietary recommendation for vitamin K is 1 microg/kg body weight per d, based on saturation of the coagulation system. The daily dietary vitamin K intake is estimated to be in the range 124-375 microg/d in a European population. Thus, a deficiency based on the hepatic coagulation system would be unusual, but recent data suggest that the requirement in relation to bone health might be higher.

Gene therapy applications for spine fusion

OBJECTIVE

This article reviews the potential utilization of various growth factors to enhance spinal fusion and outlines the principles of gene therapy and its application to spinal fusion surgery.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Gene therapy offers an exciting new way to potentially deliver growth factors locally in a targeted fashion with physiologic doses. In its current definition, gene therapy is defined as the use of nucleic acid transfer, either RNA or DNA, to treat or prevent a disease. The scope of gene therapy has expanded beyond its initial application as a method of replacing genetic defects, and its potential to facilitate spinal fusions is currently being evaluated.

CONCLUSIONS

Gene therapy strategies for spine fusion are appealing because the setting is uniquely suited for genetic manipulation. The intervention is locally applied. Only a short duration of transgene response by the cells is necessary to establish a spine fusion, and a variety of osteoinductive growth factors have been identified and are available for use. Attempts at spine fusion using gene therapy in the lower animals have been successful using both in vivo and ex vivo approaches. Before human clinical trials can be established, further testing is required in more challenging animal models of bone induction such as nonhuman primates. Should a successful clinical program of gene therapy for spine fusion be established, the use of autograft and its associated morbidities could be eliminated. In fact, gene therapy offers the potential for minimally invasive applications that could bypass the need for an open procedure altogether. It is likely that gene therapy will be a powerful therapeutic tool for the spine surgeon in the new millennium.

Expression of the fibroblast growth factor receptor genes in fracture repair

The spatial and temporal expression domains of the fibroblast growth factor receptor genes were examined in the healing rat femur fracture by in situ hybridization. Fibroblast growth factor receptor gene expression was detected in diverse fracture tissues throughout healing. Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 and 2 expression was present throughout fracture repair, in the early proliferating periosteal mesenchyme, in the osteoblasts during intramembranous bone formation, and in the chondrocytes and osteoblasts during endochondral bone formation. Fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 expression colocalized with fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 and 2 expression in the chondrocytes and osteoblasts beginning at 10 days of healing, and persisted throughout endochondral bone formation. Fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 recapitulated its expression in fetal skeletal development, suggesting that it has a similar function in the control of endochondral bone growth during fracture repair. Fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 expression was not observed at any time. The extensive colocalized expression of the fibroblast growth factor receptors in healing indicates that fibroblast growth factor regulation of fracture callus maturation is extensive, and accurate identification of the receptor isoforms is necessary to establish the functions of fibroblast growth factor family members in fracture repair.

Differential effects of osteogenic protein-1 (BMP-7) on gene expression of BMP and GDF family members during differentiation of the mouse MC615 chondrocyte cells

The mRNA expression patterns of several bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and growth differentiation factors (GDFs) in long-term cultures of the clonal mouse chondrocyte cell line MC615 were examined. Distinct spatial and temporal patterns of expression of BMPs and GDFs were observed. The temporal orders of expression were correlated with those of several biochemical markers characteristic of chondrocytic cell differentiation. BMP-1, -2, -5, and -6 mRNA expression increased throughout the chondrogenic process and BMP-4 mRNA expression was not changed. GDF-1 and -3 mRNA expression increased throughout the chondrogenic process, and GDF-5, -6, -8, and -9 mRNA expressions were not changed. Effects of osteogenic protein-1 (OP-1, BMP-7) on the expression patterns of several other members of the BMP family and of the GDF family were also examined. OP-1 downregulated the BMP-1, -4, -5, and -6 mRNA expression by a maximal 3-, 5-, 2.5-, and 3-fold, respectively. The BMP-2 mRNA expression was not changed significantly by a low concentration of OP-1, but was increased at 200 ng/ml at day 7 of treatment. In contrast to the BMPs, OP-1 upregulated significantly the six GDF members examined (GDF-1, -3, -5, -6, -8, and -9) by three- to four-fold. Our findings demonstrate that OP-1 differentially regulates the mRNA expression of several related members of the BMP family and upregulates the mRNA expression of several members of the GDF family. The observations suggest that OP-1 action on cartilage differentiation involves a complex regulation of gene expression of several members of the BMP and the GDF family.

Osteogenic protein-1 differentially regulates the mRNA expression of bone morphogenetic proteins and their receptors in primary cultures of osteoblasts

The mRNA expression patterns of several bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and their receptors (BMPRs) in long-term primary cultures of fetal rat calvaria (FRC) cells were examined by Northern analysis. Their temporal orders of expression were correlated with those of several biochemical markers characteristic of osteoblastic cell differentiation. Distinct temporal patterns of expression of BMPs and BMPRs during osteoblastic cell differentiation were observed. BMP-2 and BMP-7 mRNA levels did not change significantly. BMP-4 mRNA expression increased and reached a peak prior to matrix formation. BMP-5 mRNA expression increased during the mineralization phase and BMP-6 mRNA expression increased throughout all phases of cell differentiation. Effects of BMP-7 (Osteogenic Protein-1; OP-1) on the expression patterns of several other members of the BMP family and the receptors were also studied. OP-1 downregulated the BMP-4, -5, and -6 mRNA levels by a maximal of 2-fold, 1.5-fold, and 6-fold, respectively. OP-1 did not change significantly the OP-1 and BMP-2 mRNA expression. Of the three type I BMPR examined, OP-1 upregulated ActR-I and BMPR-IA mRNA expression slightly but with statistical significance. OP-1 downregulated BMPR-IB mRNA expression slightly. OP-1 upregulated BMPR-II mRNA expression by a maximum of 2-fold. Our findings demonstrate that OP-1 differentially regulates the mRNA expression of several related members of the BMP family and their receptors in osteoblasts. The observations suggest that OP-1 action on osteoblastic cells involves a complex regulation of gene expression of related members of the BMP family and their receptors in a cell differentiation stage dependent manner.

Species-divergent regulation of human and mouse osteocalcin genes by calciotropic hormones

Although osteocalcin is the most abundant noncollagenous protein in bone, its role remains undefined. Recent studies have reported diametrically opposing responses in the vitamin D regulation of the mouse vs the human and rat osteocalcin genes. The aim of this study was to increase the understanding of these differences and further elucidate the physiological function and regulation of osteocalcin. Direct comparison of the regulation of both the endogenous mouse osteocalcin gene (mOC) and a human osteocalcin promoter-chloramphenicol acetyl transferase (hOC-CAT) reporter as integrated templates was undertaken in primary osteoblastic cultures from OSCAT transgenic mice. Expression of both genes was up-regulated with the onset of mineralization. Long-term chronic 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (1,25-(OH)(2)D(3)) treatment and acute (2 day) PTH treatment inhibited both mOC and hOC-CAT expression. At all stages of osteoblastic development studied, hOC-CAT was up-regulated by acute 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3), whereas mOC was unaffected or inhibited. Mouse osteopontin was strongly up-regulated by acute 1, 25-(OH)(2)D(3) treatment. Thus, the divergence of the osteocalcin responses to 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) is specific for the osteocalcin gene and for an acute 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) treatment regime. Elucidation of this unique aspect of bone physiology will provide valuable insights into the still incompletely understood roles of osteocalcin and 1, 25-(OH)(2)D(3) in bone.

Use of bone morphogenetic protein-9 gene therapy to induce spinal arthrodesis in the rodent

OBJECT

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) have been shown to have significant osteoinductive activity in numerous in vitro and in vivo assay systems, and BMP-2 and BMP-7 are currently being evaluated in human clinical studies. In the spinal region, BMPs have been shown to promote spinal arthrodesis at a higher rate than autologous bone alone. The delivery of BMPs via direct or ex vivo gene therapy techniques is also currently being evaluated and has shown promise in several mammalian models. The present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of the use of direct, percutaneous BMP-9 adenoviral gene therapy to promote spinal fusion in the rodent.

METHODS

Each animal was injected with 7.5x10(8) pfu of a BMP-9 adenoviral vector in the lumbar paraspinal musculature and allowed to survive 16 weeks. Computerized tomography studies and histological analysis demonstrated massive bone induction at the injection sites, clearly leading to solid spinal arthrodesis, without evidence of pseudarthroses, nerve root compression, or systemic side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study strongly support the advancement of BMP gene therapy techniques toward clinical use.

Identification of peptide fragments generated by digestion of bovine and human osteocalcin with the lysosomal proteinases cathepsin B, D, L, H, and S

We have determined the primary cleavage sites in the bone Gla protein (BGP; osteocalcin) for several of the proteases that could act on the protein during bone resorption and turnover, cathepsins B, D, L, H, and S. The time course of BGP digestion by each cathepsin was first determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. We then incubated human and bovine BGP with each cathepsin for a sufficient time to reduce the level of intact protein by at least 20-fold, isolated the major cleavage peptides, and identified each by N-terminal sequence analysis and by amino acid analysis. Our results show that BGP has relatively few cathepsin-sensitive sites and that these sites are located at the N and C terminus of the 49-residue protein. Cathepsins B, L, H, and S readily cleave BGP at the G7-A8 bond; cathepsin L also cleaves at R43-R44; cathepsin B also cleaves at R44-F45; and cathepsin D cleaves only at A41-Y42. The immunoreactivity of the major peptides generated by cathepsin cleavage was evaluated using the original radioimmunoassay developed for the detection of BGP in human serum. The BGP 8-49 fragment cross-reacts identically with native BGP, while the 8-43 and the 1-44 fragments require 20- to 40-fold higher concentrations to achieve the same level of displacement as the native protein. The 1-41 and 8-41 fragments are unable to significantly displace the labeled native BGP tracer at any concentration tested. These results demonstrate the utility of peptides generated by cathepsin digestion in the mapping of the antigenic epitopes recognized by a given BGP immunoassay.

Identification of osteocalcin mRNA in nonosteoid tissue of rats and humans by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction

Diseased or necrotic tissue can become calcified in a way that resembles bone. We examined soft tissues for the presence and regulation of the mRNA for the bone-associated protein, osteocalcin (OC). RNA was isolated from liver, kidney, lung, brain, muscle, and bone of young (2 months) male SD rats and analyzed for beta-actin, IGF-I, metallothionein IIa, alpha 1 collagen, calbindin-D9k (CaBP), and OC mRNA by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). All PCR products but CaBP were found in bone; CaBP was present only in duodenum, kidney, and lung. OC product was detected in all tissues; the identity of the PCR product was confirmed by sequencing. Bone OC mRNA levels were calculated to be 1000-fold higher than duodenal levels. Rats fed a 0.8% strontium diet for 7 days to drive down serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 levels [1,25(OH)2D3] and then injected with 300 ng 1,25(OH)2D3/100 body weight had increased duodenal CaBP (2.5-fold) and femur OC mRNA (2.2-fold) 24 h after treatment. Duodenal OC mRNA was unchanged. OC mRNA was found in nondiseased human aortae, and the amount of message was elevated in calcified aorta and calcified aortic plaques. These results demonstrate that (1) tissues other than bone have low basal expression of OC mRNA, (2) OC mRNA is not regulated by vitamin D in nonosteoid tissue, and (3) expression of OC mRNA in atherosclerotic aorta reflects a role for bone-forming cells in ectopic bone formation observed in certain disease conditions.

Localisation of bone-forming cells during fracture healing by osteocalcin immunocytochemistry: an experimental study of the rabbit tibia

An immunocytochemical method was used to localise osteocalcin-producing cells during fracture healing in a rabbit model. In preliminary studies, tibial growth plates from young rabbits were used as a source of new bone formation, in order to determine the optimal tissue preparatory techniques. In the present study, a tibial shaft fracture was created in adult rabbits to study closed fracture healing. An indirect peroxidase method was used to stain paraffin-embedded tissue sections for osteocalcin. Osteocalcin-producing cells were positively identified at the periosteal and endosteal surfaces near the fracture site. Osteocalcin staining was not demonstrated in the surrounding soft tissues. At the interface between newly formed bone trabeculae and the cartilage layer within the callus, chondrocytic cells consistently showed localisation of osteocalcin. Within cartilaginous areas of the callus, some chondrocytes showed positive staining for osteocalcin. These cells were often seen in the proximity of blood vessels. The findings suggest that during fracture healing, under certain conditions, chondrocytes are capable of producing osteocalcin and thus could be considered capable of possible transformation into osteoblasts.

Immunolocalization of noncollagenous bone matrix proteins in lumbar vertebrae from intact and surgically menopausal cynomolgus monkeys

The noncollagenous matrix proteins, composing about 10% of the organic matrix of bone, are considered important for cell matrix organization and regulation of mineralization in bone. In the present study, seven of the major noncollagenous bone matrix proteins were localized immunohistochemically in serial sections of lumbar vertebrae from 24 (12 intact and 12 ovariectomized) adult female cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis). Osteocalcin was the only protein restricted to bone cells and mineralized bone matrix. Bone sialoprotein was present in both bone and calcified cartilage, and all the other proteins were distributed in soft tissues as well as bone. Staining for both osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein was present diffusely throughout the bone matrix, but osteonectin, osteopontin, matrix gla protein, decorin, and biglycan staining was concentrated along bone surfaces. Osteoid was negative for osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein, but all other proteins had areas of positive immunostaining within osteoid. All proteins except biglycan exhibited strong immunostaining of a subset of active osteoblasts, suggesting that they may be markers of osteoblast maturity or state of activation. The pattern of immunostaining in intact and surgically menopausal monkeys was similar, except that staining for matrix proteins concentrated along bone surfaces appeared to be more widely distributed in the surgically menopausal monkeys, probably due to the higher rate of bone formation in these animals.

Osteocalcin: diagnostic methods and clinical applications

Osteocalcin is a small (Mr 5800), very interesting bone specific protein, synthesized by osteoblasts and measured in plasma as a biochemical indicator of bone formation. Many immunoassays for osteocalcin have been developed, including radio- and enzymoimmunoassays, with the use of monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. These are used in many different clinical settings, including bone, kidney, and liver diseases. However, there is a wide range of published values for plasma osteocalcin concentrations in control and patient samples and this has hindered a more widespread adoption of osteocalcin measurement by clinicians. This review discusses how various immunoassays for osteocalcin may contribute to the wide variation of published values and suggests approaches for the development of standardized assays. For example, epitope specificity and immunoreactivity with multiple forms of osteocalcin and osteocalcin peptides in plasma are discussed. It also includes a recent update on interesting clinical applications of osteocalcin.