Long Non-Coding RNA X-Inactive Specific Transcript (LncRNA Xist) Improves the Repair of Nerve Function in Spinal Cord Injury Models via Targeting CXC Motif Chemokine Receptor 4 (CXCR4) in Bone Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs)

Abstract

This study assessed the effect of lncRNA Xist on the repair of neural function in spinal cord injury (SCI) model. Rat SCI model was established and assigned into blank group, Mock siRNA group and Xist siRNA group followed by analysis of the differentiation of BMSCs and rats’ neural functional recovery. The volume of mineralized nodule and quantity of LD in Xist siRNA group was significantly higher than control group and Mock siRNA group (P < 0.05). The expression of RUNX2, ALP, OCN, lncRNA Xist, and CXCR4 in Xist siRNA group was also significantly increased compared to other two groups (P < 0.05) along with elevated cell proliferation rate in Xist siRNA group. However, no differences of above parameters were found between control group and Mock siRNA group (P > 0.05). In conclusion, lncRNA Xist promotes the repair of rats’ neurological function and the adilpogenesis and osteogenesis differentiation of BMSCs via targeting CXCR4 in SCI model, indicating that it might be a novel target for treating SCI.