Erythropoietin enhances osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Objectives: The aim of this study is to examine the roles of erythropoietin (EPO) in regulating proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) and analyze the underlying signaling of these processes.

Materials and methods: PDLSCs were isolated and characterized. The PDLSCs were transfected with β-catenin shRNA. qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis were used to examine the osteogenic effects of EPO on the expression of osteogenic-related genes and protein (Runx2, OCN and Osterix) in PDLSCs. Alizarin Red-S staining was used to detect mineralized nodule formation. In addition, the relationship between the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and the effect of EPO on the osteogenesis of PDLSCs was investigated.

Results: The results suggested that EPO exerts positive osteogenic effects on PDLSCs. The results showed that EPO decreased the growth of PDLSCs slightly and increased alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium deposition in a dose-dependent manner. The expression of Runx2, Osterix and OCN was increased after EPO administration. EPO increases β-catenin and Cyclin D1 in PDLSCs. After transfected with β-catenin shRNA, the osteogenic effect of EPO on PDLSCs was attenuated.

Conclusion: EPO promotes osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs. The underlying mechanism may be activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.