Down to the bone: Understanding how bone-dissolving cells are generated

(Tokyo University of Science) Bone-dissolving cells called osteoclasts are derived from a type of immune cells called macrophages. They are necessary for the maintenance and renewal of bones. But the intracellular mechanisms through which macrophages convert to osteoclasts are not fully understood. Recently, scientists at the Tokyo University of Science uncovered the role of a protein called Cpeb4 in this process. Their findings suggest potential therapeutic targets for bone and joint diseases like arthritis and osteoporosis.
Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Source Type: news