The dynamic interplay between osteoclasts and the immune system

Arch Biochem Biophys. 2008 May 15;473(2):166-71. doi: 10.1016/j.abb.2008.04.004. Epub 2008 Apr 8.

Abstract

Investigation into arthritis, as well as numerous bone phenotypes found in mice lacking immune-related genes, has highlighted the importance of the interplay between the bone and immune systems, which has led to the emergence and evolution of the field of osteoimmunology. RANKL stimulates osteoclastogenesis through nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) c1, which is also a crucial regulator of immunity. In rheumatoid arthritis, bone destruction is caused by the enhanced activity of osteoclasts, which is mainly dependent on interleukin-17-producing helper T cells (T(H)17). The scope of osteoimmunology has been extended to encompass a wide range of molecular and cellular interactions. The framework of osteoimmunology will provide a scientific basis for future therapeutic approaches to diseases related to both of these systems.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / immunology
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / pathology
  • Bone Resorption / immunology
  • Bone Resorption / pathology
  • Bone and Bones / metabolism
  • Calcium Signaling
  • Immune System / physiology*
  • Mice
  • NFATC Transcription Factors / physiology
  • Osteoclasts / immunology*
  • Osteoclasts / physiology
  • Osteogenesis / immunology
  • Osteogenesis / physiology*
  • RANK Ligand / physiology
  • Receptors, Immunologic / physiology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / immunology*

Substances

  • NFATC Transcription Factors
  • RANK Ligand
  • Receptors, Immunologic