BoneKEy-Osteovision | Perspective
Wnt signaling in bone
Peter V Bodine
DOI:10.1138/20070255
Abstract
Extensive research over the past 6 years has established canonical Wnt signaling as an essential modulator of bone formation. Results from human genetic investigations, translational studies of knockout and transgenic mice, and in vitro experiments have provided evidence that Wnt signaling regulates essentially all aspects of osteoblast physiology. This review will highlight more recent findings regarding the role of canonical Wnt signaling in osteoblast coupling to osteoclastogenesis, the control of osteoblast apoptosis, and the modulation of mechanosensory perception. The roles of the secreted antagonists Dickkopf and sclerostin in bone formation, and the interactions between parathyroid hormone signaling and Wnt pathway components, will be summarized. Finally, this Perspective will examine the status and issues of Wnt pathway targets for drug discovery.
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