Glycyrrhizic acid promotes osteogenic differentiation of human bone
mesenchymal stem cells by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signalling
pathway
Abstract
Background and Purpose Glycyrrhizic acid (GA) is a major triterpene
glycoside isolated from liquorice root that has been shown to inhibit
osteoclastogenesis. However, there have been no reports regarding the
effect of GA on osteogenic differentiation. Therefore, this study was
performed to explore the effects and mechanism of action of GA on
osteogenesis. Experimental Approach A CCK-8 array was used to assess
cell viability. The osteogenic capability was investigated by real-time
quantitative PCR, western blotting and immunofluorescence analyses. ALP
staining and ARS were used to evaluate ALP activity and mineralisation,
respectively. GA-GelMA hydrogels were designed to verify the therapeutic
effects of GA in vivo by radiographic analysis and histological
evaluation. Key Results Our results show that GA had no significant
influence on the viability or proliferation of human bone mesenchymal
stem cells (hBMSCs). GA promoted osteogenic differentiation and enhanced
calcium deposition. Furthermore, levels of active β-catenin protein
increased after treatment w ith GA. Wnt/catenin signalling inhibitor
partially reversed the effects of GA on osteogenic differentiation. In a
mouse femoral fracture model, GA-GelMA hydrogels accelerated bone
healing. Conclusion and Implications Our results show that GA promotes
the osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin
signalling pathway. GA-GelMA hydrogels promoted bone fracture healing.
GA has potential as a cost-effective treatment of bone defects.