Loss of Runx2 in committed osteoblasts impairs postnatal skeletogenesis.

ABSTRACT: The Runx2 transcription factor is critical for commitment to the osteoblast lineage. However, its role in committed osteoblasts and its functions during postnatal skeletogenesis remain unclear. We established a Runx2-floxed line with insertion of loxP sites around exon 8 of the Runx2 gene. The Runx2 protein lacking the region encoded by exon 8 is imported into the nucleus and binds target DNA but exhibits diminished transcriptional activity. We specifically deleted the Runx2 gene in committed osteoblasts using 2.3-kb col1a-Cre transgenic mice. Surprisingly, the homozygous Runx2 mutant mice were born alive. The Runx2 heterozygous and homozygous null were grossly indistinguishable from wild-type littermates at birth. Runx2 deficiency did not alter proliferative capacity of osteoblasts during

SUBMITTER: Adhami MD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4280286 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature