Studies on the role of fibronectin isoforms on osteoblast differentiation

• Applicant: Professorin Dr. Inaam Nakchbandi
• Subject Area: Orthopaedics, Traumatology, Reconstructive Surgery ; Endocrinology, Diabetology, Metabolism
• Term: from 2015 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 269936326

Fibronectin is a major component of the extracelllular matrix. It is ubiquitously expressed and its absence is incom-patible with life. Fibronectin exerts different actions that are due to the presence of different isoforms. In osteo-blasts, earlier work by our lab suggests the stimulation of osteoblast differentiation by the presence of a fibronectin isoform. Unpublished studies in vitro and in vivo support the conclusion that at least one isoform stimulates differ-entiation and increases bone mineral density. In the proposed project we aim to understand how these effects are mediated, the receptors involved, and the signaling pathways activated. We will take advantage of these findings to develop new approaches to enhancing osteoblast function in vivo and increasing bone mineral density.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants