Nuclear matrix-targeting of the osteogenic factor Runx2 is essential for its recognition and activation of the alkaline phosphatase gene

► Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a direct target gene of Runx2. ► Nuclear matrix-targeting of Runx2 is essential for its recognition of ALP. ► Nuclear matrix-targeting of Runx2 is essential for its activation of ALP. ► Runx2K120A accumulates largely in the nuclear matrix fraction. ► Runx2K120A hampers the activation of ALP by wild-type Runx2.