The Osteoblast: A Sophisticated Fibroblast under Central Surveillance

The study of the biology of osteoblasts, or bone-forming cells, illustrates how mammalian genetics has profoundly modified our understanding of cell differentiation and physiologic processes. Indeed, genetic-based studies over the past 5 years have revealed how osteoblast differentiation is controll...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Science (American Association for the Advancement of Science) 2000-09, Vol.289 (5484), p.1501-1504
Main Authors: Ducy, Patricia, Schinke, Thorsten, Karsenty, Gerard
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Analysis
Animals
Bone formation
Bone Remodeling
Bone resorption
Bones
Cell Differentiation
Cells
Etiology
Evidence
Fibroblasts - cytology
Fibroblasts - physiology
Gene expression regulation
Genetics
Growth Substances - physiology
Homeodomain Proteins - physiology
Hormones
Hormones - physiology
Humans
Individualized Instruction
Leptin - physiology
Mice
Obesity
Osteoblasts
Osteoblasts - cytology
Osteoblasts - physiology
Osteoclasts
Osteoclasts - cytology
Osteoclasts - physiology
Osteogenesis
Reviews
Skeletal maturity
Skeleton
Transcription factors
Transcription Factors - physiology
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Summary:The study of the biology of osteoblasts, or bone-forming cells, illustrates how mammalian genetics has profoundly modified our understanding of cell differentiation and physiologic processes. Indeed, genetic-based studies over the past 5 years have revealed how osteoblast differentiation is controlled through growth and transcription factors. Likewise, the recent identification, using mutant mouse models, of a central component in the regulation of bone formation expands our understanding of the control of bone remodeling. This regulatory loop, which involves the hormone leptin, may help to explain the protective effect of obesity on bone mass in humans. In addition, it provides a novel physiologic concept that may shed light on the etiology of osteoporosis and help to identify new therapeutic targets.
ISSN:0036-8075
1095-9203
DOI:10.1126/science.289.5484.1501