Abstract

Direct cell-to-cell interactions via cell adhesion molecules, in particular cadherins, are critical for morphogenesis, tissue architecture, and cell sorting and differentiation. Partially overlapping, yet distinct roles of N-cadherin (cadherin-2) and cadherin-11 in the skeletal system have emerged from mouse genetics and in vitro studies. Both cadherins are important for precursor commitment to the osteogenic lineage, and genetic ablation of Cdh2 and Cdh11 results in skeletal growth defects and impaired bone formation. While Cdh11 defines the osteogenic lineage, persistence of Cdh2 in osteoblasts in vivo actually inhibits their terminal differentiation and impairs bone formation. The action of cadherins involves both cell-cell adhesion and interference with intracellular signaling, and in particular the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Both cadherin-2 and cadherin-11 bind to β-catenin, thus modulating its cytoplasmic pools and transcriptional activity. Recent data demonstrate that cadherin-2 also interferes with Lrp5/6 signaling by sequestering these receptors in inactive pools via axin binding. These data extend the biologic action of cadherins in bone forming cells, and provide novel mechanisms for development of therapeutic strategies aimed at enhancing bone formation.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)46-54
Number of pages9
JournalCalcified Tissue International
Volume94
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2014

Keywords

  • Bone formation
  • Cadherins
  • Cell-cell adhesion
  • Osteoblast differentiation
  • Wnt/β-catenin signaling

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Cadherin-mediated cell-cell adhesion and signaling in the skeleton'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this