LncPVT1 regulates osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament cells via miR-10a-5p/brain-derived neurotrophic factor

Background: Identifying the factors affecting osteoblast differentiation of periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) can help enhance the regeneration of periodontal tissue. LncRNA plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (lncPVT1) is an important regulatory factor involved in many biological processes, but its role in osteogenesis remains unclear.

Methods: Expressions of osteogenic markers were detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. Alkaline phosphatase staining was conducted for early osteoblast differentiation and alizarin red S staining was used for mineral deposition. RNA sequencing was used to identify the miRNAs regulated by lncPVT1 during osteogenesis. Cell transfection was used to overexpress or knockdown lncPVT1 and miR-10a-5p. Dual luciferase reporter assays were conducted to analyze the binding of miR-10a-5p to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).

Results: LncPVT1 was significantly increased during osteogenic induction of PDLCs. Overexpression of lncPVT1 promoted osteogenesis, whereas lncPVT1 knockdown inhibited this process. RNA sequencing showed that miR-10a-5p expression was significantly increased after lncPVT1 knockdown. RNA immunoprecipitation assay further demonstrated the binding potential of lncPVT1 and miR-10a-5p. MiR-10a-5p inhibited the osteogenesis of PDLCs, and partially reversed the stimulatory effects of lncPVT1. Subsequently, we identified a predicted binding site for miR-10a-5p on BDNF and confirmed it using dual luciferase reporter assays. Moreover, lncPVT1 upregulated the expression of BDNF, whereas miR-10a-5p downregulated BDNF expression. BDNF promoted osteogenesis and partially rescued the si-lncPVT1-mediated inhibition of PDLCs osteogenic differentiation.

Conclusions: LncPVT1 positively regulated the osteogenic differentiation of PDLCs via miR-10a-5p and BDNF. Our results provide a promising target for enhancing the osteogenic potential of PDLCs.