| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1931422 | Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications | 2010 | 7 Pages |
Pluripotent mesenchymal stem cells possess the ability to differentiate into many cell types, but the precise mechanisms of differentiation are still unclear. Here, we provide evidence that Rbpj (recombination signal-binding protein for immunoglobulin kappa j region) protein, the primary nuclear mediator of Notch, is involved in osteogenesis. Overexpression of Rbpj promoted osteogenic differentiation of mouse Kusa-A1 cells in vitro and in vivo. Transient transfection of an Rbpj expression vector into Kusa-A1 cells upregulated promoter activities of Runx2 and Ose2. Enhanced osteogenic potentials including high alkaline phosphatase activity, rapid calcium deposition, and increased calcified nodule formation, were observed in established stable Rbpj-overexpressing Kusa-A1 (Kusa-A1/Rbpj) cell line. In vivo mineralization by Kusa-A1/Rbpj was promoted compared to that by Kusa-A1 host cells. Histological findings revealed that expression of Rbpj was primarily observed in osteoblasts. These results suggest that Rbpj may play essential roles in osteoblast differentiation.
Research highlights► High Rbpj mRNA expression was observed in mesenchymal cells surrounding the bone of mouse embryos. ► Overexpression of Rbpj depressed Notch-Hes1/Hey1 signaling. ► Rbpj upregulated promoter activities of Runx2 and Ose2. ► Rbpj promoted osteoblastic differentiation/maturation in Kusa-A1 cells.
