Effect of PPADS on achondroplasic chondrocytes: inhibition of FGF receptor type 3 over-activity

Achondroplasia, results from a mutation in the FGF receptor type 3, leading to receptor hyperactivation and subsequent amplification of FGF receptor type 3 signals. We have tested the ability of pyridoxal-5'-phosphate-6-azophenyl-2', 4'-disulfonate (PPADS) to decrease the overactivation and signalling of FGF receptor type 3 in achondroplasic chondrocytes. PPADS reduced the tyrosine phosphorylation of FGF receptor type 3 triggered by fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) (50% reduction), as well as the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) pathway. As a consequence of this inhibitory effect on ERK1/2 activity the loss of extracellular matrix was also reversed by PPADS. The action of PPADS seems to be due to a mechanism independent of P2 receptor antagonism.