Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 6, 2026
Skeletal Phenotype Analysis of a Conditional Stat3 Deletion Mouse Model
Published on: July 3, 2020
Targeting casein kinase 2 and ubiquitin-specific protease 7 to modulate RUNX2-mediated osteogenesis in chronic kidney
Haifeng Lan1, Xiao-Jun Yu2,3, Guangsheng Ling1
1Department of Orthopedics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology; The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, No. 63, Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510150, P. R. China.
Objective:
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) frequently leads to Mineral Bone Disorder (MBD), which significantly affects patient quality of life due to bone fragility and metabolic disturbances. This study investigates the role of Casein Kinase 2 (CK2) and Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 7 (USP7) in modulating Runt-related Transcription Factor 2 (RUNX2)-driven osteogenesis in a CKD-MBD mouse model.
Methods:
A CKD-MBD mouse model was established using 5/6 nephrectomy. Bioinformatic analysis of CKD-related datasets identified RUNX2 and USP7 as key genes implicated in bone metabolism. In vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to assess the effects of CK2-mediated phosphorylation and USP7-induced deubiquitination on RUNX2 stability and function. Histomorphometry, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), and micro-CT analyses were performed to evaluate bone density, strength, and metabolic markers.
Results:
RUNX2 and USP7 were significantly downregulated in CKD-MBD mice. Silencing RUNX2 impaired osteoblast differentiation, reduced bone density, and increased bone turnover, while CK2 overexpression restored RUNX2 activity by phosphorylation, recruiting USP7 to stabilize RUNX2. Enhanced osteoblast differentiation and improved bone metabolism were observed in CKD-MBD mice upon CK2 activation.
Conclusion:
CK2 activation promotes RUNX2 phosphorylation and stabilization by USP7, leading to improved osteogenesis and bone metabolism in CKD-MBD. Targeting the CK2/USP7/RUNX2 axis presents a potential therapeutic strategy for managing CKD-related bone disorders.
