piRNA DQ690018 increased bone mass by promoting the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs.

BACKGROUND

The proliferation, migration, and osteogenic differentiation of bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) play vital roles in maintaining bone mass and metabolism. BMSC base cell therapy has become a competitive treatment option for osteoporosis. PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are critical regulators of cellular processes.

METHODS

Small RNA sequencing and qPCR were used to detect piRNA expression during BMSC proliferation. CCK-8, clone formation, and EdU assays were used to detect the effect of piRNA DQ690018 on BMSC proliferation. Wound healing and Transwell assays were used to assess the effect of piRNA DQ690018 on the migration of BMSCs. RNA sequencing was performed to identify DQ690018. Alkaline phosphatase and alizarin red staining were used to evaluate the effect of DQ690018 on osteogenic differentiation.The glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis animal model was used to assess the impact of DQ690018 on bone mass. Micro-CT and hematoxylin and eosin staining of tibia were used to measure bone mass.

RESULTS

Fifteen piRNAs were upregulated, and 81 piRNAs were downregulated during BMSC proliferation. DQ690018 promotes BMSC proliferation by downregulating p21 expression and BMSC migration by upregulating vinculin (Vcl) expression. Furthermore, it improved the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs and promoted the effect of BMSC base cell therapy in maintaining bone mass.

CONCLUSION

DQ690018 is a novel target for increasing the proliferation, migration, and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs.