Osteoclast and its roles in calcium metabolism and bone development and remodeling

Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2006 May 5;343(2):345-50. doi: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2006.02.147. Epub 2006 Mar 6.

Abstract

Osteoclasts are multinucleated cells responsible for bone resorption and play important roles in normal skeletal development, in the maintenance of its integrity throughout life, and in calcium metabolism. During bone resorption, the cytoskeleton of osteoclasts undergoes extensive reorganization, with polarization and formation of ruffled borders to secrete acid and formation of sealing zone to prevent leakage. The differentiation and function of osteoclasts are in turn regulated by osteoblasts, stromal cells, and bone. They are also subjected to negative feedback regulation by extracellular and intracellular calcium concentrations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bone Development / physiology*
  • Bone Remodeling / physiology*
  • Calcium / metabolism*
  • Cell Differentiation / physiology
  • Humans
  • Osteoclasts / cytology*
  • Osteoclasts / physiology*

Substances

  • Calcium