The RNA demethylase ALKBH5 promotes osteoblast differentiation by modulating Runx2 mRNA stability

AlkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5) has been reported as a key m6A demethylase that is involved in development and diseases; however, the function of ALKBH5 osteogenesis remains unknown. In this study, we report mRNA protein expression were upregulated during osteoblast differentiation knockdown suppressed differentiation, mineralization, osteogenic biomarkers. Conversely, overexpression promoted osteogenesis. Moreover, wild-type ALKBH5, but not m6A-modified active site mutant could rescue knockdown-induced inhibition. Furthermore, significantly impaired stability transcription factor Runx2, which plays role differentiation. Taken together, our results suggest promotes through modulating Runx2 stability.