Scleraxis upregulated by transforming growth factor-β1 signaling inhibits tension-induced osteoblast differentiation of priodontal ligament cells via ephrin A2.

During tooth movement in orthodontic treatment, bone formation and resorption occur on the tension and compression sides of the alveolar bone, respectively. Although the bone formation activity increases in the periodontal ligament (PDL) on the tension side, the PDL itself is not ossified and maintains its homeostasis, indicating that there are negative regulators of bone formation in the PDL. Our previous report suggested that scleraxis (Scx) has an inhibitory effect on ossification of the PDL on the tension side through the suppression of calcified extracellular matrix formation.

Ten-m/Odz3 regulates migration and differentiation of chondrogenic ATDC5 cells via RhoA-mediated actin reorganization.

Tenascin-like molecule major (Ten-m)/odd Oz (Odz), a type II transmembrane molecule, is well known to modulate neural development. We have reported that Ten-m/Odz3 is expressed in cartilaginous tissues and cells. Actin cytoskeleton and its regulator ras homolog gene family member A (RhoA) are closely associated with chondrogenesis.

Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) Is a Potential Marker for Cancer Stem Cells in Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma.

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are defined as a small population of cancer cells with the properties of high self-renewal, differentiation, and tumor-initiating functions. Recent studies have demonstrated that aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) is a marker for CSCs in adult cancers. Although CSCs have been identified in some different types of pediatric solid tumors, there have been no studies regarding the efficacy of ALDH1 as a marker for CSCs.

Scleraxis and osterix antagonistically regulate tensile force-responsive remodeling of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone.

The periodontal ligament (PDL) is a mechanosensitive noncalcified fibrous tissue connecting the cementum of the tooth and the alveolar bone. Here, we report that scleraxis (Scx) and osterix (Osx) antagonistically regulate tensile force-responsive PDL fibrogenesis and osteogenesis. In the developing PDL, Scx was induced during tooth eruption and co-expressed with Osx.

Increased expression of survivin in hepatoblastoma after chemotherapy.

Background: Survivin, an inhibitor of apoptosis, has been reported to be associated with a worse prognosis in some malignancies. However, its expression in hepatoblastoma (HB) remains to be elucidated. We assessed the survivin expression in HB specimens collected before and after chemotherapy to elucidate the impact of survivin on the outcome of HB therapy.