RANKL as the master regulator of osteoclast differentiation

AbstractRANKL, the essential cue for osteoclast differentiation, is the membrane-bound factor expressed by osteoclastogenesis-supporting cells such as osteoblasts and osteocytes. In vivo evidence indicates that RANKL functions as the indispensable and irreplaceable in the program of osteoclast differentiation. The reason why RANKL plays a critical role in osteoclastogenesis is discussed from the viewpoint of the distinct signaling pathways mediated by co-stimulatory receptors and the key transcription factor NFATc1.

Source: Journal of Bone and Mineral Metabolism - January 1, 2021 Category: Orthopaedics Source Type: research