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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

The extracellular matrix protein Agrin is expressed by osteoblasts and contributes to their differentiation

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Author(s):
Souza, Alann Thaffarell Portilho [1] ; Lopes, Helena Bacha [1] ; Oliveira, Fabiola Singaretti [1] ; Weffort, Denise [1] ; Freitas, Gileade Pereira [1] ; Adolpho, Leticia Faustino [1] ; Fernandes, Roger Rodrigo [1] ; Rosa, Adalberto Luiz [1] ; Beloti, Marcio Mateus [1]
Total Authors: 9
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Sch Dent Ribeirao Preto, Bone Res Lab, Ribeirao Preto, SP - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 1
Document type: Journal article
Source: Cell and Tissue Research; v. 386, n. 2 JUL 2021.
Web of Science Citations: 0
Abstract

The extracellular matrix protein Agrin has been detected in chondrocytes and endosteal osteoblasts but its function in osteoblast differentiation has not been investigated yet. Thus, it is possible that Agrin contributes to osteoblast differentiation and, due to Agrin and wingless-related integration site (Wnt) sharing the same receptor, transmembrane low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 4 (Lrp4), and the crosstalk between Wnt and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling, both pathways could be involved in this Agrin-mediated osteoblast differentiation. Confirming this, Agrin and its receptors Lrp4 and alpha-dystroglycan (Dag1) were expressed during differentiation of osteoblasts from three different sources. Moreover, the disruption of Agrin impaired the expression of its receptors and osteoblast differentiation, and the treatment with recombinant Agrin slightly increase this process. In addition, whilst Agrin knockdown downregulated the expression of genes related to Wnt and BMP signalling pathways, the addition of Agrin had no effect on these genes. Altogether, these data uncover the contribution of Agrin to osteoblast differentiation and suggest that, at least in part, an Agrin-Wnt-BMP circuit is involved in this process. This makes Agrin a candidate as target for developing new therapeutic strategies to treat bone-related diseases and injuries. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 16/14171-0 - Role of Wnt Signaling Pathways in the Osteogenic Potential of Titanium Surface with Nanotopography
Grantee:Márcio Mateus Beloti
Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
FAPESP's process: 17/20349-9 - Expression of the extracellular matrix protein agrin during osteoblastic differentiation
Grantee:Denise Weffort
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation