The Role of Twist1 in Stem Cell Differentiation through Mechanical Cues: A Review and Hypothesis
Yinqiu Yan
Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
Zeyun Tian
Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
Qiuyue Guan
Department of Geriatrics, People’s Hospital of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, P.R. China
Ding Bai
Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
Jing Zhang *
Department of Orthodontics, Sixth People's Hospital, Anyang, P.R. China
Xianglong Han
Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Due to the pivotal role of stem cell differentiation in regeneration and disease cure, the study of it has always been a research highlight during the recent years. Stress microenvironment has a great impact on cell growth, proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Twist1, as a core epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) regulatory factor, plays an important role in these processes. Moreover, Twist1 gene can express in alveolar bone – periodontal ligament interface and the expression can be regulated by changes in the occlusal force. In this article, we will present a review of Twist1 gene, especially in the aspect of the biological functions in stem cell differentiation under mechanical signals and explore whether Twist1 involved in tissue remodeling in alveolar bone - periodontal membrane interface under stress.
Keywords: Twist1, stem cell differentiation, stress microenvironment, alveolar bone – periodontal ligament interface