Therapeutic targeting of osteoclast function and pathways

Expert Opin Ther Targets. 2011 Feb;15(2):169-81. doi: 10.1517/14728222.2011.546351. Epub 2011 Jan 5.

Abstract

Introduction: Osteoclasts are responsible for bone resorption and underlie a number of pathological states in which osteolysis is a feature. Over recent decades our molecular understanding of osteoclast differentiation and activation has expanded significantly, and this has allowed for the development of a number of osteoclast-targeted therapies.

Areas covered: This review seeks to present the underlying molecular mechanisms of osteoclast differentiation and activity as a basis for understanding our current treatment of osteoporosis and malignant tumors in bone. Osteoclast-targeted therapies are also being evaluated for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteosarcoma and giant cell tumor of bone.

Expert opinion: With concurrent advances in the fields of molecular biology, pathology and advanced imaging, osteoclast-targeted therapies show great potential for treating conditions in which excess resorption of bone is a key pathological process. Targeting of osteoclast control mechanisms offers the potential of combining 'molecular imaging' with therapeutic intervention and longitudinal monitoring of disease processes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bone Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Bone Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Bone Neoplasms / physiopathology
  • Bone Neoplasms / secondary
  • Bone Resorption
  • Bone and Bones / enzymology
  • Bone and Bones / pathology*
  • Bone and Bones / physiopathology
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Humans
  • Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor / metabolism
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy*
  • Osteoclasts / cytology*
  • Osteoclasts / enzymology
  • Osteoclasts / physiology
  • Osteoporosis / drug therapy*
  • Osteoporosis / pathology*
  • Osteoporosis / physiopathology
  • RANK Ligand / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • RANK Ligand
  • Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor