Gene expression associated with osteoblast differentiation

摘要

The present invention identifies genes whose expression pattern is altered when pre-osteoblastic cells undergo differentiation into mature osteoblasts. The genes identified may be used as markers for the differentiation process. The present invention also provides methods to screen agents that are capable of modulating the differentiation process. The present invention also provides methods of identifying therapeutic agents that stimulate bone formation by analyzing the expression of one or more of the genes identified.