Unraveling the causal role of TGF-βRII in osteoporosis and the potential of its associated differential genes as novel targets.

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis (OP) is a common disorder associated with reduced density of the bones, increasing the likelihood of fractures and deformities. The global incidence of OP is rising rapidly due to aging populations and lifestyle changes, affecting not only older adults but, increasingly, younger and middle-aged individuals. The long-term care and rehabilitation required for OP-induced fractures and complications impose significant economic burdens on both individuals and society, as well as reducing their quality of life.

METHODS

Recent studies have demonstrated an association between transforming growth factor-beta type II receptor (TGF-βRII) and OP through analysis of gene expression data sets and Mendelian randomization, suggesting potential causal relationships. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from OP patients and healthy controls in the GEO database, and their functions were analyzed. The relationships between the identified genes and their effects on immune cells were examined in terms of ceRNAs and immune infiltration. Single-cell RNA-seq data of OP patients in GSE147287 was used to investigate effects on MSC differentiation from DEGs, and gene expression data were verified using RT-qPCR.

RESULTS

The molecular pathways underlying OP were explored by focusing on the role of MSCs and TGF-β signaling, identifying a significant causal link between TGFBRII and OP. DEGs associated with the TGF-β pathway included ID2, ID4, LRRC32, and EMP3, which are closely related to bone homeostasis and the differentiation of bone marrow MSCs. In addition, analysis of immune infiltration showed the involvement of these genes in various immune cells, and potential non-coding RNA targeting ID2, ID4, and LRRC32 were investigated using ceRNA networks. Single-cell sequencing demonstrated the expression of ID2, ID4, LRRC32, and EMP3 in bone marrow MSCs and their effects on MSC differentiation.

CONCLUSIONS

TGFBRII was found to be causally associated with OP. ID2, ID4, LRRC32, and EMP3 affect the differentiation and osteogenic function of bone marrow MSCs through the TGF-β pathway, suggesting the potential of ID2, ID4, LRRC32, and EMP3 as therapeutic targets for treating osteoporosis. In summary, targeting of ID2, ID4, LRRC32, and EMP3 holds significant promise for the treatment of OP, providing new targets and strategies, and precise treatment.