Functional interaction between Wnt and Bmp signaling in periosteal bone growth

Sci Rep. 2021 May 24;11(1):10782. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-90324-1.

Abstract

Wnt and Bmp proteins are well known to regulate bone development and homeostasis. Although both signals are extensively studied, their potential interaction in vivo is less well understood. Previous studies have shown that deletion of Bmpr1a, a type I receptor for Bmp signaling, results in excessive trabecular bone formation while diminishing periosteal bone growth. Moreover, forced-expression of the Wnt antagonist Sost suppresses the overgrowth of trabecular bone caused by Bmpr1a deletion, thus implicating hyperactive Wnt signaling in the excessive trabecular bone formation. However, it remains uncertain whether Wnt and Bmp signaling interacts in regulating the periosteal bone growth. Here we show that multiple Wnt genes are markedly suppressed in the cortical bone without Bmpr1a. Importantly, overexpression of Wnt7b fully rescues periosteal bone growth in the Bmpr1a-deficient mice. Thus, pharmacological activation of Wnt signaling can restore normal bone size without intact Bmp signaling.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptors, Type I / genetics*
  • Bone Morphogenetic Proteins / metabolism
  • Cancellous Bone / diagnostic imaging
  • Cancellous Bone / growth & development*
  • Cancellous Bone / metabolism
  • Cancellous Bone / pathology
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Gene Knockout Techniques
  • Mice
  • Radiography
  • Wnt Signaling Pathway*

Substances

  • Bone Morphogenetic Proteins
  • Bmpr1a protein, mouse
  • Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptors, Type I