BMP4 Promotes EMT and Mesodermal Commitment in Human Embryonic Stem Cells via SLUG and MSX2. (March 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Richter, Anne; Valdimarsdottir, Lena; Hrafnkelsdottir, Helga Eyja; Runarsson, Johann Frimann; Omarsdottir, Arna Run; Oostwaard, Dorien Ward‐van; Mummery, Christine; Valdimarsdottir, Gudrun
• Is Part Of: Stem cells. Volume 32:Number 3(2014:Mar.)
• Page Start: 636
• Page End: 648
• Publication Date: 2014-03
• Subjects: Cloning -- Periodicals; Clone cells -- Periodicals; Stem cells -- Periodicals; Cell Differentiation -- Periodicals; Cell Division -- Periodicals; Clone Cells -- Periodicals; Hematopoietic Stem Cells -- Periodicals; Stem Cells -- Periodicals; 571.84
• DOI: 10.1002/stem.1592
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1066-5099

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title>Abstract</title> <p>Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) initiate differentiation in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) but the exact mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. We demonstrate here that SLUG and MSX2, transcription factors involved in epithelial–mesenchymal transitions, essential features of gastrulation in development and tumor progression, are important mediators of BMP4‐induced differentiation in hESCs. Phosphorylated Smad1/5/8 colocalized with the SLUG protein at the edges of hESC colonies where differentiation takes place. The upregulation of the BMP target <italic>SLUG</italic> was direct as shown by the binding of phosphorylated Smad1/5/8 to its promoter, which interrupted the formation of adhesion proteins, resulting in migration. Knockdown of <italic>SLUG</italic> by short hairpin RNA blocked these changes, confirming an important role for SLUG in BMP‐mediated mesodermal differentiation. Furthermore, BMP4‐induced MSX2 expression leads to mesoderm formation and then preferential differentiation toward the cardiovascular lineage. S<sc>tem</sc> C<sc>ells</sc><italic>2014;32:636–648</italic></p> </abstract>