A novel in vitro culture system for analysis of functional role of phosphate transport in endochondral ossification.

In vivo expression of the type III sodium-dependent phosphate transporter (NaPiT) Glvr-1 during endochondral ossification, suggests a functional role for inorganic phosphate (Pi) transport in cartilage calcification. For further analysis of this relationship, an in vitro model of endochondral ossification is required. In this context, we investigated the characteristics of Pi transport in the new chondrogenic cell line ATDC5 in relation to extracellular matrix (ECM) formation and mineralization. Pi uptake in ATDC-5 cells and in isolated matrix vesicles (MVs) is mediated by an Na-dependent Pi transporter with a pH dependency characteristic of a type III Pi carrier (lower activity at alkaline pH). Northern blot analysis indicated that ATDC-5 cells express Glvr-1 transcripts during the various stages of their maturation with a maximal level during the proliferating stage. In isolated MVs, Pi transport activity was maximal at day 21, concomitant with the beginning of type X collagen messenger RNA expression. These events preceded the initiation of matrix mineralization, which was apparent at day 25, and then gradually increased until day 47. This temporal relationship between maximal Pi transport activity in MVs and the expression of a marker of mineralizing chondrocytes is compatible with the possible involvement of Pi transport in the ECM calcification observed in ATDC-5 cell cultures. In conclusion, these observations suggest that ATCD-5 cells in culture represent a promising model for the analysis of a functional role of Pi transport in the initial events of endochondral ossification.