Apelin Attenuates the Osteoblastic Differentiation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
2011

Apelin Reduces Osteoblastic Differentiation in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Shan Peng-Fei, Lu Ying, Cui Rong-Rong, Jiang Yi, Yuan Ling-Qing, Liao Er-Yuan

Primary Institution: The Second Xiang-Ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China

Hypothesis

The apelin-APJ signaling system is involved in the regulation of the osteoblastic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).

Conclusion

Apelin inhibits the osteoblastic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells through the APJ/ERK and APJ/PI3-K/Akt signaling pathways.

Supporting Evidence

  • Apelin treatment significantly inhibited alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in a dose-dependent manner.
  • Apelin decreased osteocalcin secretion in cultured CVSMCs.
  • Apelin reduced the formation of mineralized nodules in CVSMCs.

Takeaway

Apelin is a substance that helps keep blood vessels healthy by stopping certain cells from turning into bone-like cells, which can cause problems in the heart.

Methodology

The study used calcifying vascular smooth muscle cells (CVMSCs) to investigate the effects of apelin on osteoblastic differentiation and the involved signaling pathways.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0017938

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