Abstract
Extracellular matrix proteins are produced by osteoblasts and chondrocytes in order to establish and sustain the skeletal system. As secretory cells, these cells must be endowed with a large capacity for protein synthesis, as well as the equipment for quality control and transport of freshly produced secreted proteins. To achieve this aim, we deem that the unfolded protein response (UPR) is important. Recent studies have revealed that the UPR plays a larger role in skeletal development than previously thought. The UPR is involved in many aspects of bone formation and homeostasis, as well as the development of skeletal diseases. A new analysis of UPR signaling molecules’ function in bone metabolism and disease biomarkers is presented in this article. Furthermore, we also analyzed the differential expression profile after overexpressing IRE1a and ATF6 in chondrocyte and discovered that ATF6 and IRE1a can directly interact with certain genes to participate in bone development and bone-related disease processes by transcription factor Chip-chip assay. These discoveries, based on the comprehensive analysis of Chip assay and literature reports, may predict the relationship between each UPR signaling molecule and bone metabolism. It is of far-reaching significance for the further study of the diagnosis and therapies strategies for skeletal diseases.
Keywords
UPR signaling molecules, ATF6, IRE1, XBP1, PERK, Bone formation and homeostasis, Osteoarthritis, Osteoporosis, Rheumatoid arthritis