IRF6 in osteonecrosis of the jaw induce by bisphosphonates


A unique approach to uncover medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is through genetic studies. Our lab has been investigating the transcription factor, IRF6, that functions as a tumor suppressor in bone development. Our published data has shown that Irf6 is expressed in cranial osteocytes, osteoclasts, and oral epithelium (Thompson, et al., 2019). The Irf6 gene is highly expressed in oral epithelium, mucosa, and macrophages, while moderately expressed in osteocytes. Loss of Irf6 leads to craniofacial bone abnormalities, including disorganized bone structure, reduction in the number of osteoclasts, and less mineralized bone. The bone matrix in Irf6 null mice is void of osteocytes in multiple regions of the mandible. Because the phenotype of Irf6 null mice shares bone matrix and cell profile characteristics with the histopathological presentation of MRONJ, it suggests that Irf6 might play a crucial role in the genetics of MRONJ.
Funding
AADR-Houston Chapter, UTHealth SOD