Abstract:

Objective  This study aims to explore the effect of Notch signaling depression on the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclastogenesis of RAW264.7 cells. Methods  Mice RAW264.7 cells were cultured and differentiated into osteoclasts with the induction of RANKL. The expressions of Notch1, Notch2, Delta1, Jagged1, Hes1, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), and Cathepsin K genes during osteoclastogenesis were analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Osteoclast formation was analyzed using TRAP assay with suppression of Notch receptors by a selective γ-secretase inhibitor (GSI). Results   Notch1, Notch2, Delta1, Jagged1, and Hes1 expressions in RAW264.7 cells were upregulated following 50 ng•mL-1 RANKL stimulation for 3 d, concomitant with the expression of the osteoclast differentiation markers TRAP and Cathepsin K. Notch2 and Jagged1 had the most remarkable increase in the Notch family members. GSI inhibited RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis of RAW264.7 cells and Hes1 expression dosedependently. Conclusion  Notch signaling activation may promote RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis of RAW264.7 cells.

Key words:  Notch signaling, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand, osteoclastogenesis