The pathophysiological role of PEDF in bone diseases

First discovered in 1991 as a factor secreted by retinal pigment epithelial cells, the potency of pigment epithelium derived factor (PEDF) as an anti-angiogenic has led to examination of its role in active bone growth, repair and remodelling. In the musculoskeletal system, PEDF expression occurs particularly at sites of active bone formation. Expression has been noted in osteoblasts and to a lesser degree osteoclasts, the major classes of bone cells. In fact, PEDF is capable of inducing differentiation of precursor cells into mature osteoblasts. Expression and localisation are closely linked with that of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Studies at the epiphyseal plate have revealed that PEDF expression plays a key role in endochondral ossification, and beyond this may account for the epiphyseal plate's innate ability to resist neoplastic cell invasion. Collagen-1, the major protein in bone, is avidly bound by PEDF, implicating an important role played by this protein on PEDF function, possibly through MMP-2 and -9 activity. Surprisingly, the role of PEDF has not been evaluated more widely in bone disorders, so the challenge ahead lies in a more diverse evaluation of PEDF in various osteologic pathologies including osteoarthritis and fracture healing.