The Role of Myostatin (GDF-8) in Chondrogenesis and Fracture Healing

Abstract

Traumatic musculoskeletal injuries frequently include damage to both muscle and bone where muscle injury itself can delay bone healing. Myostatin (GDF-8) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, and a negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth. Loss of myostatin function leads to a doubling of skeletal muscle mass, a general increase in bone density, and an increase in fracture callus bone volume. Myostatin is highly expressed during the first twenty-four hours after fracture, yet nothing is known about its role in fracture repair. We hypothesize that myostatin is a key regulator in the process of bone regeneration, and is a major therapeutic target for enhancement of fracture healing. Pharmacological inhibition of myostatin may therefore improve the regenerative capacity of both muscle and bone.