Identification of differentially expressed genes associated with dimethyl sulfoxide-enhanced mineralization in mouse MC3T3-E1 preosteoblast cells.

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is widely used as a solvent for water-insoluble substances and has biological properties such as inducing cellular differentiation, scavenging free radicals, and acting as a radioprotectant. DMSO has also been reported to enhance mineralization in osteoblastic cells. However, its molecular mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated. In this study, we identified the differentially expressed genes associated with dimethyl sulfoxide-enhanced mineralization in mouse MC3T3-E1 preosteoblast cells using GeneChip® oligonucleotide microarrays. Mouse MC3T3-E1 preosteoblast cells were cultured in osteogenic medium with or without 0.6% DMSO at 37°C for 3 days. For control experiments, cells were cultured in normal medium at 37°C for 3 days. Total RNA samples were prepared from the cells, and quality of the RNA was analyzed using a Bioanalyzer 2100. Gene expression was analyzed by an Affymetrix GeneChip® system with a GeneChip Mouse Genome 430 2.0 array. Sample preparation for array hybridization was carried out as described in the manufacturer’s instructions.