Regulatory landscape of Runx2 and Sp7 in osteoblast and chondrocyte lineages: Recent findings from next‐generation sequencer‐based studies

Abstract

AbstractMouse genetic studies have revealed that Runx2 and Sp7 act as master regulators in skeletal development. Numerous mechanistic studies have also uncovered how these two transcription factors execute key gene regulatory programs for the specification and differentiation of the two skeletal cell lineages, osteoblasts, and chondrocytes. The emergence of next‐generation sequencer (NGS)‐based techniques has shifted the research focus from the local actions of Runx2 and Sp7 to their comprehensive actions on the entire genome in cells of interest. NGS‐based studies have elucidated the gene‐regulatory landscapes of Runx2 and Sp7 in osteoblast and chondrocyte lineages, demonstrating that Runx2 and Sp7 exert their cell‐type‐specific functions through cell‐type‐specific modes of action. NGS‐based techniques are expected to continue evolving and providing high‐resolution, genome‐scale datasets. Ongoing accumulation of such data will enhance our understanding of gene‐regulatory networks in skeletal development and maintenance, and assist in the modeling of skeletal disorders and the development of novel therapeutic strategies.