The cell biology of bone metabolism

• Published in: Journal of clinical pathology Vol. 61; no. 5; pp. 577 - 587
• Main Authors: Datta, H K, Ng, W F, Walker, J A, Tuck, S P, Varanasi, S S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Association of Clinical Pathologists 01.05.2008; BMJ; BMJ Publishing Group LTD
• Subjects: Apoptosis; Biological and medical sciences; Bone and Bones - cytology; Bone and Bones - immunology; Bone and Bones - metabolism; Bone Remodeling - physiology; Bones; Cell Differentiation - physiology; Collagen; Cytokines; Energy Metabolism; Glucose; Growth factors; Growth hormones; Humans; Immune system; Investigative techniques, diagnostic techniques (general aspects); Medical sciences; Metabolic disorders; Osteoblasts - physiology; Osteoclasts - physiology; Osteocytes - physiology; Pathology. Cytology. Biochemistry. Spectrometry. Miscellaneous investigative techniques; Proteins; Regulation; Signal Transduction - physiology; Stem cells; Vertebrae; Osteoarticular system; Cell biology; Anatomic pathology; Bone; Metabolism
• ISSN: 0021-9746; 1472-4146; 1472-4146
• DOI: 10.1136/jcp.2007.048868

Contrary to the commonly held misconception, bone is a relatively dynamic organ that undergoes significant turnover as compared to other organs in the body. This review details how complex intercellular signalling, between the osteoprogenitor cells and mature osteoblasts, osteocytes and osteoclasts, regulates and balances activities of bone cells during remodelling and growth. Both systemic, as well as local autocrine and paracrine factors are discussed. A number of recent important advances in cell biology of bone have led to a new paradigm in understanding of the subject. In this regard, the interaction between the immune system and bone cells is of particular interest, leading to the emergence of a new discipline termed osteoimmunology. The role of lymphocytes and a number of key cytokines in the regulation of osteoclastogenesis and osteoblast function is critically examined. The intracellular signalling regulating key cellular pathways involved in cell differentiation and activity are outlined. The emerging evidence of osteocytes as mechanosensors as well as regulators of mineralisation is discussed.