The BVES Gene Regulates the Homeostasis of Deer Antler Mesenchymal Stem Cells Through Wnt Signaling

(1) Background: The proliferation and differentiation of antler mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are vital for antler growth. Our group found that BVES is downregulated during peak antler growth but is highly expressed in mesenchymal tissues, suggesting its role in regulating antler homeostasis. (2) Methods: We manipulated BVES expression in antler MSCs using lentiviral plasmids and siRNA, and then assessed its effects on MSC proliferation via CCK-8 and EdU assays, while also analyzing changes in Wnt pathway gene expression. (3) Results: Overexpression of BVES significantly decreased the CCK-8 OD value of antler MSCs (p < 0.05), and EdU assays revealed a significantly lower cell positivity rate compared to the control group (p < 0.01). In contrast, suppression of BVES resulted in a significant increase in the OD value (p < 0.05) and a significantly higher cell positivity rate than the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, overexpression of BVES significantly downregulated the expression of key Wnt signaling pathway genes (LRP6, DVL3, β-catenin, c-Myc), while suppression of BVES led to their upregulation. (4) Conclusions: In summary, the BVES gene inhibits the proliferation of antler MSCs by suppressing the Wnt signaling pathway. It may serve as a key gene in maintaining antler MSC homeostasis and regulating antler growth, providing a new perspective for understanding the mechanisms of antler growth.