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Updated: Apr 30, 2026
Stimulation of Notch Signaling in Mouse Osteoclast Precursors
Published on: February 28, 2017
Roles of notch signalling in mandibular condylar cartilage
Maria J Serrano1, Sarah So1, Robert J Hinton1
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry, 3302 Gaston Ave, Dallas, TX 75246, USA.
Importance:
Notch proteins are cell surface transmembrane spanning receptors which mediate critically important cellular functions through direct cell-cell contact. Interactions between Notch receptors and their ligands regulate cell fate decisions such differentiation, proliferation and apoptosis in numerous tissues. We have previously shown using immunohistochemistry that Notch1 is localized primarily to the prechondroblastic (chondroprogenitor) layer of the mandibular condylar cartilage (MCC).
Objective:
To test if Notch signalling changes patterns of proliferation and differentiation in the MCC and to investigate if Notch signalling acts downstream of Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 (FGF-2).
Methods:
Condylar cartilage explants were cultured over serum-free DMEM containing either 0 or 50nM DAPT, a Notch signal inhibitor. Explants were used for RNA extraction and immunohistochemistry.
Results:
Analysis of gene array data demonstrated that the perichondrial layer of the MCC is rich in Notch receptors (Notch 3 and 4) and Notch ligands (Jagged and Delta) as well as various downstream facilitators of Notch signalling. Disruption of Notch signalling in MCC explants decreased proliferation (Cyclin B1 expression) and increased chondrocyte differentiation (Sox9 expression). Moreover, we found that the actions of FGF-2 in MCC are mediated in part by Notch signalling.
Conclusion:
These data suggest that Notch signalling contributes to the regulation of proliferation and differentiation in the MCC.
Insights
Notch signalling regulates mandibular condylar cartilage (MCC) development by controlling cell proliferation and differentiation. This pathway is influenced by Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 (FGF-2), impacting chondrocyte fate.
Area of Science:
- Cell biology
- Developmental biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Notch proteins are cell surface receptors crucial for cell-cell communication, regulating cell fate decisions like differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis.
- Previous studies indicated Notch1 localization in the mandibular condylar cartilage (MCC) chondroprogenitor layer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if Notch signaling influences proliferation and differentiation patterns in the MCC.
- To investigate the relationship between Notch signaling and Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 (FGF-2) in the MCC.
Main Methods:
- Mandibular condylar cartilage explants were cultured with or without a Notch inhibitor (DAPT).
- Gene expression and immunohistochemistry were used to analyze the effects of Notch inhibition.
Main Results:
- The perichondrial layer of the MCC expresses Notch receptors, ligands, and signaling facilitators.
- Inhibiting Notch signaling reduced proliferation (decreased Cyclin B1) and increased chondrocyte differentiation (increased Sox9).
- FGF-2's effects in the MCC are partly mediated through Notch signaling.
Conclusions:
- Notch signaling plays a role in regulating proliferation and differentiation within the MCC.
- These findings highlight Notch signaling as a key regulator in chondrogenesis of the mandibular condyle.
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