Bone mass homeostasis and bisphosphonate action

The evidence supporting the concept of bone mass homeostasis controlled by mechanical loads is summarized. The well-known adaptation of bone structure to mechanical loads can only be achieved if an increase in load stimulates bone formation and a decrease stimulates bone resorption. This defines the...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Bone 1997, Vol.20 (1), p.1-4
Main Author: Rodan, G.A.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Alendronate
Biological and medical sciences
Biomechanical Phenomena
Bone Density - drug effects
Bone Development - drug effects
Bone Development - physiology
Bone loss
Bone Resorption - drug therapy
Diphosphonates - pharmacology
Diphosphonates - therapeutic use
Diseases of the osteoarticular system
Estrogens
Fractures, Bone - epidemiology
Fractures, Bone - etiology
Homeostasis - drug effects
Humans
Medical sciences
Osteoclasts - cytology
Osteoclasts - drug effects
Osteoclasts - physiology
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis - drug therapy
Osteoporosis - etiology
Osteoporosis. Osteomalacia. Paget disease
Space life sciences
Weight-Bearing
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Summary:The evidence supporting the concept of bone mass homeostasis controlled by mechanical loads is summarized. The well-known adaptation of bone structure to mechanical loads can only be achieved if an increase in load stimulates bone formation and a decrease stimulates bone resorption. This defines the feedback system that can play a role in the coupling of bone formation to bone resorption. The two processes are not determining bone mass, but serve as means to maintain it at the homeostatic level. Imbalance produced by excess resorption, which cannot be effectively matched by increased formation, a slower process, causes bone loss. Slowing of bone resorption can facilitate the restoration of bone mass to homeostatic levels and, since bone formation is mechanically driven, the newly evolving structure would best be suited for mechanical usage and should reduce the risk of fractures.
ISSN:8756-3282
1873-2763
DOI:10.1016/S8756-3282(96)00318-3