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Research Progress of Basing on Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway in the Treatment of Bone Tissue Diseases
De-Hua Zhang1, Jin Shao2,3
1School of Gongli Hospital Medical Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.
Abstract:
Osteoporosis, affecting the entire skeletal system, can cause bone mass to diminish, thereby reducing bone strength and elevating fracture risk. Fracture nonunion and bone defects are common in patients with fractures, and pain and loss of function may cause serious distress. The search for a new therapeutic strategy is essential because of the limited therapeutic options available. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are crucial for bone metabolism and development due to their high self-renewal capabilities. Wnt signaling is a key pathway that plays a significant role in bone formation by regulating the differentiation of BMSCs. Therefore, the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs can be regulated by activating Wnt signaling as an idea for bone tissue repair. In this review, we systematically compile and analyze the roles of various drugs, biomolecules, exosomes, and biomaterials in influencing the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway during the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. It is also discussed how these factors impact on BMSCs and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Finally, we also present recent advances in combining bone regeneration materials through these factors, which will help subsequent clinical treatment and translation.
Insights
This review explores how activating Wnt signaling in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) can enhance bone repair. It analyzes factors influencing BMSCs and Wnt pathway for improved bone regeneration strategies.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Osteoporosis and bone defects present significant clinical challenges with limited treatment options.
- Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are vital for bone metabolism and repair due to their regenerative potential.
- The Wnt signaling pathway is a critical regulator of osteogenic differentiation in BMSCs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review factors influencing Wnt/β-catenin signaling in BMSCs for osteogenic differentiation.
- To analyze the impact of drugs, biomolecules, exosomes, and biomaterials on BMSCs and the Wnt pathway.
- To present advances in combining bone regeneration materials with Wnt pathway modulators for clinical translation.
Main Methods:
- Systematic compilation and analysis of existing literature.
- Review of studies investigating drugs, biomolecules, exosomes, and biomaterials.
- Examination of their effects on Wnt/β-catenin signaling and BMSC osteogenic differentiation.
- Analysis of recent advancements in composite bone regeneration materials.
Main Results:
- Various agents (drugs, biomolecules, exosomes, biomaterials) can modulate Wnt/β-catenin signaling to promote BMSC osteogenic differentiation.
- These factors influence BMSC behavior and the Wnt pathway, offering therapeutic potential.
- Combinations of bone regeneration materials with these factors show promise for enhanced bone repair.
Conclusions:
- Activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in BMSCs is a promising strategy for bone tissue engineering and osteoporosis treatment.
- Targeting the Wnt pathway with specific agents and materials can significantly improve bone regeneration outcomes.
- Further research and clinical translation of these combined approaches are essential for effective fracture nonunion and bone defect management.
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