The regulation of pedicle initiation by androgens in sika deer (Cervus nippon)

Background: Deer antlers have the potential to contribute to a range of novel biomedical models. Although androgen is undoubtedly an undisputed prerequisite for pedicle initiation (initial stage of antler formation), the molecular mechanisms underlying androgen stimulation remain unclear. Methods: osteoblast induction, and transcriptomic analyses. Results: tissue explant cultures; however, it showed no effect on osteogenic differentiation of these cells. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that testosterone serves as the key factor triggering pedicle initiation. However, this effect likely occurs through the promotion of AP cell proliferation rather than their osteogenic differentiation. Furthermore, the results suggest that CALR may play a pivotal role in regulating the transcription of AR downstream genes during pedicle initiation. These results provide new insights into androgen-regulated mechanisms in deer pedicle initiation.