circRNA_0016624 could sponge miR-98 to regulate BMP2 expression in postmenopausal osteoporosis

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Osteoporosis Research

Background:

• Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are increasingly recognized as crucial regulators in human diseases.
• The specific roles and mechanisms of circRNAs in postmenopausal osteoporosis are not well understood.
• Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) is vital for osteogenic differentiation, and miR-98 targets BMP2.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate circRNA expression profiles in postmenopausal osteoporosis.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanism of circRNA_0016624 and its interaction with miR-98 and BMP2 in osteogenic differentiation.

Main Methods:

• RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis identified differentially expressed circRNAs in osteoporosis patients.
• Dual luciferase assays confirmed the interaction between circRNA_0016624 and miR-98.
• Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting assessed expression levels of circRNA_0016624, miR-98, and BMP2.

Main Results:

• 387 circRNAs were found to be differentially expressed in osteoporosis.
• circRNA_0016624 and BMP2 were downregulated in osteoporosis patients.
• Overexpression of circRNA_0016624 promoted BMP2 expression and inhibited osteoporosis progression.

Conclusions:

• circRNA_0016624 acts as a miR-98 sponge, enhancing BMP2 expression.
• circRNA_0016624 demonstrates a protective effect against osteoporosis.
• This finding suggests circRNA_0016624 as a potential novel therapeutic target for osteoporosis.