Pham, Lan Dang2012-11-152012-11-152012-08https://hdl.handle.net/11299/139093University of Minnesota Ph.D. dissertation. August 2012. Major: Oral Biology. Advisor: Kim Mansky PhD. 1 computer file (PDF); xii, 170 pages.Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are well-studied regulators of osteoblasts, and are used in a number of craniofacial and orthopedic procedures to promote localized bone formation. Studies of skeletal tissue has shed light on BMPʼs role as an inducer of chondrocytic and osteoblastic differentiation and function. BMPs have been used successfully in studies to: treat critical sized defects in both long and craniofacial bones; enhance fracture healing; treat nonunions and lumbar spinal fusion; and regenerate alveolar bone and portions of teeth such as dentin and pulp. However, it has been difficult to determine the optimal concentrations, appropriate temporal release, and regulation of BMPs, as both a deficiency and an excess of BMPs may lead to pathologic states. Furthermore, the cellular and molecular origin of this BMP-associated stimulation of bone resorption remains poorly understood. The data presented in this thesis will help us better understand the modulation of osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption by the regulatory proteins BMP-2, Twisted gastrulation, and Histone deacetylase 3 and 7. The knowledge gained by studying these regulators in osteoclasts should provide important new insight into the use of BMPs in bone generation procedures, its role in pathogenesis of bone resorptive disorders, and provide a conceptual framework for the development of successful therapies and bone regenerative strategies for diseases associated with increased bone loss and defective bone formation.en-USBMPBone RemodelingHDACOsteoclastogenesisTwisted GastrulationThesis or Dissertation