HOXA11-AS/miR-208-3p/ETS1 axis modulates osteogenic differentiation in bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Background Osteoporosis (OP) is one of the most common bone diseases, resulting in increased mortality, persistent disability, and reduced quality of life. It is characterized by bone loss and low bone quality. Objective The objective of this study was to detect possible effects of HOXA11-AS on the progression of Osteoporosis (OP) and investigate the potential downstream targets. Results We found HOXA11-AS was low expression in BMSCs of OVX-induced rats. HOXA11-AS promoted osteoblastic differentiation and the expression of osteoblastic genes in BMSCs. Mechanically, we found HOXA11-AS negatively regulated the expression of miR-208a-3p, and miR-208a-3p could further target ETS proto-oncogene 1 (ETS1) in BMSCs. We further demonstrated HOXA11-AS promoted osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs through ETS1. Conclusion We therefore thought HOXA11-AS could serve as a promising target for the treatment of OP.