Biology of Bone Tissue: Structure, Function, and Factors That Influence Bone Cells

Author(s)

Florencio-Silva, Rinaldo ; da Silva Sasso, Gisela Rodrigues ; Sasso-Cerri, Estela ; Simoes, Manuel Jesus ; Cerri, Paulo Sergio

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL; v. 2015, p. 17-pg., 2015-01-01.

Abstract

Bone tissue is continuously remodeled through the concerted actions of bone cells, which include bone resorption by osteoclasts and bone formation by osteoblasts, whereas osteocytes act as mechanosensors and orchestrators of the bone remodeling process. This process is under the control of local (e.g., growth factors and cytokines) and systemic (e.g., calcitonin and estrogens) factors that all together contribute for bone homeostasis. An imbalance between bone resorption and formation can result in bone diseases including osteoporosis. Recently, it has been recognized that, during bone remodeling, there are an intricate communication among bone cells. For instance, the coupling from bone resorption to bone formation is achieved by interaction between osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Moreover, osteocytes produce factors that influence osteoblast and osteoclast activities, whereas osteocyte apoptosis is followed by osteoclastic bone resorption. The increasing knowledge about the structure and functions of bone cells contributed to a better understanding of bone biology. It has been suggested that there is a complex communication between bone cells and other organs, indicating the dynamic nature of bone tissue. In this review, we discuss the current data about the structure and functions of bone cells and the factors that influence bone remodeling. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 12/22666-8 - Cellular and molecular mechanisms during the early development of rat alveolar bone
• Grantee: Paulo Sergio Cerri
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 12/19428-8 - Evaluation of autophagy and cell death in osteocytes of alveolar bone in ovariectomized female rats treated with estrogen
• Grantee: Paulo Sergio Cerri
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 10/10391-9 - Effect of cimetidine in the evolution of periodontitis in rat molars: morphometrical, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural evaluation
• Grantee: Paulo Sergio Cerri
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants