Osteoclast cell fusion: mechanisms and molecules

摘要: Osteoclasts are bone-resorbing multinuclear polykaryon that essential for bone remodeling and formed through cell fusion of mononuclear macrophage/monocyte-lineage hematopoietic precursors. In arthritic joints, a large number activated osteoclasts can be detected, which suggested to causative erosion in rheumatoid arthritis. It has been fully established osteoclastogenesis is critically regulated by several key factors, such as M-CSF RANKL. However, regarding their most characteristic property, i.e., form giant polykaryons, there still miscellaneous questions clarified, although molecules have shown involved this process. Here we review the latest knowledge about osteoclastogenic novel concepts underlying phenomenon. Because genuine property mature osteoclasts, modulating process will become promising therapeutic tool resorptive disorders future.