Epigenetics: Novel crucial approach for osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells

Bone has a robust regenerative potential, but its capacity to repair critical-sized bone defects is limited. In recent years, stem cells have attracted significant interest for their potential in tissue engineering. Applying mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for enhancing bone regeneration is a promising therapeutic strategy. However, maintaining optimal cell efficacy or viability of MSCs is limited by several factors. Epigenetic modification can cause changes in gene expression levels without changing its sequence, mainly including nucleic acids methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs. This modification is believed to be one of the determinants of MSCs fate and differentiation. Understanding the epigenetic modification of MSCs can improve the activity and function of stem cells. This review summarizes recent advances in the epigenetic mechanisms of MSCs differentiation into osteoblast lineages. We expound that epigenetic modification of MSCs can be harnessed to treat bone defects and promote bone regeneration, providing potential therapeutic targets for bone-related diseases.

Automated summary

Bone has limited capacity to repair critical-sized bone defects, but stem cells, particularly mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), show promise in enhancing bone regeneration. Epigenetic modification, including nucleic acids methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs, plays a crucial role in determining MSCs fate and differentiation. Understanding the epigenetic mechanisms of MSCs can improve stem cell activity and function. This review highlights the potential of harnessing epigenetic modification of MSCs for treating bone defects and promoting bone regeneration, providing therapeutic targets for bone-related diseases.