<i>NEAT1</i> Functions as a Key Mediator of <i>BMP2</i> to promote osteogenic differentiation of renal interstitial fibroblasts

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> To clarify the mechanism of <i>NEAT1</i>, an aberrantly upregulated lncRNA in Randall's plaques (RP) similar to biomineralization, in mediating osteogenic differentiation of human renal interstitial fibroblasts. <b>Materials & methods:</b> A comprehensive strategy of bioinformatic analysis and experimental verification was performed. <b>Results:</b><i>BMP2</i> silence abolished the osteogenic differentiation of human renal interstitial fibroblasts promoted by <i>NEAT1</i>. Mechanically, <i>NEAT1</i> not only induced the nucleolar translocation of EGR1 binding to <i>BMP2</i> promotor, but also functioned as a sponge of miR-129-5p in the cytoplasm to promote BMP2 expression. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between <i>NEAT1</i> and BMP2 expression in RP instead of normal renal papilla. <b>Conclusion:</b><i>NEAT1</i> acted as a key mediator of BMP2 to promote human renal interstitial fibroblast osteogenic differentiation, through which <i>NEAT1</i> might be involved in RP formation.