Energy Metabolism of Osteocytes

AbstractPurpose of ReviewIn this review, we provide a recent update on bioenergetic pathways in osteocytes and identify potential future areas of research interest. Studies have identified a role for regulation of bone formation and bone resorption through osteocyte mechanosensing and osteocyte secreted factors. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of studies on the bioenergetics and energy metabolism of osteocytes, which are required for the regulation of bone remodeling.Recent FindingsOsteocytes are cells of the osteoblast lineage embedded in bone. The osteocyte lacunocanalicular network within the skeletal matrix is exposed to a unique hypoxic environment. Therefore, the bioenergetic requirements of these cells could differ from other bone cells due to its location in the ossified matrix and its role in bone regulation transduced by mechanical signals. Recent findings highlighted in this review provide some evidence that metabolism of these cells is dependent on their location due to the substrates present in the microenvironment and metabolic cues from stress pathways. Both glycolysis (glucose metabolism) and oxidative phosphorylation (mitochondrial dynamics, ROS generation) affect osteocyte function and viability.SummaryIn this review, we provide evidence that is currently available about information regarding bioenergetics pathways in osteocytes. We discuss published studies showing a role for hypoxia-driven glucose metabolism in regulating osteocyte bioenergetics. We also ...
Source: Current Osteoporosis Reports - Category: Orthopaedics Source Type: research