Functions of the SNAI family in chondrocyte‐to‐osteocyte development

Abstract Different cellular mechanisms contribute to osteocyte development. And while critical roles for members of the zinc finger protein SNAI family (SNAIs) have been discussed in cancer‐related models, there are few reviews summarizing their importance for chondrocyte‐to‐osteocyte development. To help fill this gap, we review the roles of SNAIs in the development of mature osteocytes from chondrocytes, including the regulation of chondro‐ and osteogenesis through different signaling pathways and in programmed cell death. We also discuss how epigenetic factors—including DNA methylation, histone methylation and acetylation, and noncoding RNAs—contribute differently to both chondrocyte and osteocyte development. To better grasp the important roles of SNAIs in bone development, we also review genotype–phenotype correlations in different animal models. We end with comments about the possible importance of the SNAI family in cartilage/bone development and the potential applications for therapeutic goals.