Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) also known as core-binding factor subunit alpha-1 (CBF-alpha-1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the RUNX2 gene. RUNX2 is a key transcription factor associated with osteoblast differentiation.

Cbfa1 was then shown to regulate the expression of all the major genes expressed by osteoblasts. Consistent with this ability, genetic experiments identified Cbfa1 as a key regulator of osteoblast differentiation in vivo.

Core-binding factor alpha(1) (Cbfa1) is an essential transcription factor for osteoblastic differentiation and osteogenesis. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) is also a powerful inducer of differentiation of pluripotent mesenchymal cells to osteoblast lineage and bone formation.

Apr 4, 1999 · Cbfa1 is the only osteoblast-specific transcription factor identified to date. Molecular and genetic evidence have demonstrated that it acts as an activator of osteoblast differentiation during embryonic development in mouse and human.

May 30, 1997 · Analysis of embryonic Cbfa1 expression using a lacZ reporter gene revealed strong expression at sites of bone formation prior to the earliest stages of ossification. Thus, the Cbfa1 gene is essential for osteoblast differentiation and bone formation, and the Cbfa1 heterozygous mouse is a paradigm for a human skeletal disorder.

Oct 19, 2000 · Cbfa1 was then shown to regulate the expression of all the major genes expressed by osteoblasts. Consistent with this ability, genetic experiments identified Cbfa1 as a key regulator of osteoblast differentiation in vivo.

Core binding factor 1 (Cbfa1)/runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) has been identified as a ‘‘master gene’’ in osteoblastic differentiation. In this two-part study, part I of the study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that bone regeneration is compromised in Cbfa1+/− mice.

Cbfa1 was identified as a key regulator of osteoblast-specific gene expression through its binding to the OSE2 element of the mouse Osteocalcin genes 1 and 2 (OG1 and OG2) (9) and other genes expressed in osteoblasts.

Osteoblasts are cells that group together to form units, called osteons, to produce bone. Runx2 (which may also be known as Cbfa1), and Osx (a zinc finger containing transcription factor) are necessary for osteochondroprogenitor cells to differentiate into the osteoblast cell lineage.

We present evidence that Cbfa1 increases OPG gene transcription in osteoblastic and nonosteoblastic cells, via sequence-specific binding and transactivation mediated by the OSE 2 elements and that Cbfa1 overexpression enhances OPG protein levels in osteoblastic cells.