Sox4 enhances chondrogenic differentiation and proliferation of human synovium-derived stem cell via activation of long noncoding RNA DANCR.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have several features that make them an attractive option for potentiating cartilage repair. Synovium-derived (SMSCs) have been recently recognized as an excellent source. SRY-related HMG-box (Sox) family plays an important role in the proliferation and differentiation of SMSCs. However, the role of Sox4 in human SMSCs remains elusive. In the present study, we investigated the role of Sox4 in SMSCs through gain-of-function studies and found that Sox4 promoted cell proliferation and chondrogenesis. Furthermore, Sox4 could directly bind to the promoter of long noncoding RNA DANCR and increased its expression. Finally, knockdown of DANCR could reverse the stimulative effect of Sox4 on the proliferation and chondrogenesis of SMSCs. Taken together, our data highlights the pivotal role of Sox4 in the proliferation and differentiation of SMSCs.