Regulation of mineralisation in bone and vascular tissue: a comparative review

Abstract

Biomineralisation, the deposition of mineral onto a matrix, can be both a physiological and pathological process. Bone formation involves the secretion of an extracellular matrix (ECM) by osteoblasts and subsequent mineralisation of that matrix. It is regulated by a number of local and systemic factors and is necessary for maintenance of normal bone health. Conversely, mineralisation (or calcification) of soft tissues, including the vasculature, is detrimental to that tissue, leading to diseases such as arterial medial calcification (AMC). The mechanisms underlying AMC development are not fully defined, though it is thought that vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) drive this complex, cell-mediated process. Similarly, AMC is regulated by a variety of enzymes and molecules, many of which have already been implicated in the regulation of bone mineralisation. This review will provide an overview of the similar, and sometimes opposing effects of these signalling molecules on the regulation of bone mineralisation and AMC.

BMP-2 Long-Term Stimulation of Human Pre-Osteoblasts Induces Osteogenic Differentiation and Promotes Transdifferentiation and Bone Remodeling Processes

“…In bone, type I collagen comprises approximately 80% of the total proteins [ 36 ] and collagen fibrils serve to deposit Ca 2+ and P i to form hydroxyapatite crystals within their 40 nm holes [ 37 ]. The Ca 2+ and P i are presumably released from the extracellular matrix vesicles in which Ca 2+ and P i ions, enzymes, lipids, and miRNAs are enriched [ 38 ]. Furthermore, no change in OCN expression could be detected after BMP-2 exposure compared to the control, indicating an immature state in mineralization, since osteocalcin promotes the deposition of minerals in the extracellular matrix [ 5 ].…”

Differences in pathways contributing to thyroid hormone effects on postnatal cartilage calcification versus secondary ossification center development

“…Mineralization can also occur in an uncontrolled or pathological manner in many soft tissues including cardiovascular, kidney and articular cartilage leading to morbidity and mortality. Recent studies focused on the underlying mechanisms for vascular calcification have shown that components regulating physiological mineralization are also present in areas of pathological mineralization (Bourne, Wheeler-Jones, & Orriss, 2021; Tesfamariam, 2019), suggesting that mechanisms for pathological mineralization may be a recapitulation of what happens during normal development. Therefore, studies focused on the understanding of regulatory molecules and cellular processes involved in ossification of cartilage and bone tissues during normal development may provide important clues toward the understanding of components involved in pathological mineralization.…”

In Search of a Role for Extracellular Purine Enzymes in Bone Function

“…In this context, an often overlooked aspect should be emphasized, when it comes to bone dysfunctions, namely the crucial importance of an efficient blood supply to the whole body thanks to an optimal circulation. As recently reported, the accumulation of calcium-phosphate crystals (i.e., HA) in the arterial wall as well as in cardiac valves has a significant impact on morbidity and mortality in several diseases such as CKD, osteoporosis, and diabetes patients by provoking severe cardiovascular events [ 102 ]. Interestingly, these pathological conditions are the same in which bone loss is also present.…”