Activation of the ERK1/2 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Cascade by Dentin Matrix Protein 1 Promotes Osteoblast Differentiation

DMP1 has been shown to play many roles in osteogenesis. We recently demonstrated that calcium-mediated stress kinase activation by DMP1 leads to osteoblast differentiation. In this study we demonstrate that DMP1 can also activate the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-MAPK pathway. This activation was mediated through the RGD integrin-binding domain in DMP1. Further, we demonstrate that Runx2, an essential transcription factor, is stimulated by the ERK-MAPK pathway.