Genome-wide microarray analysis of MG-63 osteoblastic cells exposed to ultrasound

It is well documented that low intensity pulsed ultrasound can be clinically used to accelerate bone fracture healing. Additionally, in vitro studies have shown that ultrasound can, for instance, increase mineralization, collagen production and alkaline phosphatase activity in osteoblasts. Despite the extensive research on the subject, the exact mechanism of ultrasound effect on bone cell gene regulation has not yet been deduced. In this study, we made an effort to reveal the features of genome-wide transcriptional response of osteoblast-type cells to ultrasound. MG-63 osteoblastic cell transcriptome was analyzed with whole genome microarray either 6 or 24 h after 30 min long exposure to 1.035 MHz pulsed ultrasound with three different acoustic pressures. Special attention was paid to the experimental design to minimize thermal effects and unwanted reflections of ultrasound. Microarray analysis suggested that ultrasound affects the genes involved with cellular membranes, and regulation of transcription as well. Several plasma membrane solute carriers were also regulated by ultrasound. It also changed the transcript level of several transcription factors belonging to the zinc finger proteins. However, ultrasound did not clearly promote genes involved with osteoblast differentiation.