Kartogenin (CAS 4727-31-5)

Kartogenin is a bioactive compound known for its unique role in promoting chondrocyte differentiation, making it an important tool in the study of cartilage formation and repair. It exerts its biological effects primarily by facilitating the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into chondrocytes, the cells responsible for producing and maintaining the cartilaginous matrix in the skeletal system. The mechanism of action of Kartogenin involves the modulation of the CBFβ-RUNX1 signaling pathway, a critical axis in the regulation of bone and cartilage development. Kartogenin binds to filamin A, a cytoskeletal protein, thereby disrupting its interaction with the transcription factor CBFβ. This disruption enhances the stability and activity of CBFβ, allowing it to form a complex with RUNX1. The CBFβ-RUNX1 complex then activates transcription of genes essential for chondrogenesis, promoting the differentiation of MSCs into chondrocytes. In research settings, Kartogenin has been used extensively to explore the molecular pathways involved in cartilage formation and regeneration.