Diagnosis and Treatment of Heterotopic Ossification
Abstract
We recently developed a model of heterotopic ossification (HO) that suggests blocking the initial response of the nerve could ultimately block this devastating problem before it occurs. From these studies we have identified and isolated osterix+ cells as a unique osteoprogenitor within the endoneurium of peripheral nerves. These cells express not only the osteogenic factors osterix and dlx5, but also the neural stem cell markers p75, musashi, and PDGFRalpha. Osterix+ cells within the endoneurium are observed 24 hours after induction and then disappear. Simultaneous with there disappearance in the endoneurium, they reappear in the blood stream, and are now expressing claudin 5, a unique tight junction molecule that regulates the "blood-nerve barrier". These cells also now express the markers of extravasation, CD44 and CXCR4. These cells then disappear from the blood at approximately 3-4 days after induction, and simultaneously they are deposited at the site of bone formation. These cells appear to be associated with new vessels that have been rapidly synthesized at the site. This occurs prior to cartilage formation, suggesting that this pathway can be effectively targeted. Further we are currently working to develop this as a tentative blood diagnostic.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2014
- Accession Number
- ADA619615
Entities
People
- Alan R Davis
- Elizabeth A. Olmsted-Davis
Organizations
- Baylor College of Medicine