Skeletal (stromal) stem cells: an update on intracellular signaling pathways controlling osteoblast differentiation

Bone. 2015 Jan:70:28-36. doi: 10.1016/j.bone.2014.07.028. Epub 2014 Aug 17.

Abstract

Skeletal (marrow stromal) stem cells (BMSCs) are a group of multipotent cells that reside in the bone marrow stroma and can differentiate into osteoblasts, chondrocytes and adipocytes. Studying signaling pathways that regulate BMSC differentiation into osteoblastic cells is a strategy for identifying druggable targets for enhancing bone formation. This review will discuss the functions and the molecular mechanisms of action on osteoblast differentiation and bone formation; of a number of recently identified regulatory molecules: the non-canonical Notch signaling molecule Delta-like 1/preadipocyte factor 1 (Dlk1/Pref-1), the Wnt co-receptor Lrp5 and intracellular kinases. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Stem Cells and Bone.

Keywords: Dlk1; Kinases; Lrp5; MSC; Osteoblast differentiation; Pref-1.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bone and Bones / cytology*
  • Cell Differentiation*
  • Humans
  • Intracellular Space / metabolism*
  • Osteoblasts / cytology*
  • Osteoblasts / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction*
  • Stem Cells / cytology*
  • Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Stromal Cells / cytology
  • Stromal Cells / metabolism