The Osteocyte Network as a Source and Reservoir of Signaling Factors.
10.3803/EnM.2010.25.3.161
- Author:
Lynda F BONEWALD
1
Author Information
1. Department of Oral Biology, University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Dentistry, MO, USA. bonewaldl@umkc.edu
- Publication Type:Review
- MeSH:
Adult;
Aging;
Bone Remodeling;
Homeostasis;
Humans;
Osteoblasts;
Osteocytes;
Skeleton
- From:Endocrinology and Metabolism
2010;25(3):161-165
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Within the past few years, information regarding osteocyte function as been emerging and expanding significantly. No longer is the osteocyte considered a passive cell acting simply as a 'placeholder' within mineralized bone. Osteocytes are derived from osteoblast progenitors and in the adult skeleton compose 90-95% of all bone cells. Therefore, the function of these cells in the adult and aging skeleton has become the focus of recent investigation. These cells are proving to be multifunctional, ranging from mechanotransduction, to regulation of mineral homeostasis, to control of bone remodeling. The osteocyte as a source and reservoir of signaling factors important in health and maintenance of the adult skeleton is addressed in this review.
