title: [Differentiation of osteoclasts].
abstract: The differentiation and functions of osteoclasts (OCs) are regulated by osteoblast-derived factors such as receptor activator of NF kappa; B ligand (RANKL) that stimulates OC formation and a novel secreted member of the TNF receptor superfamily, osteoprotegerin (OPG), that negatively regulates osteoclastogenesis. Preosteoclasts (pOCs) treated with RANKL became TRAP-positive OCs, which express vacuolar-type H (+) -ATPase and exhibit resorptive activity. Such effects of RANKL on pOCs are inhibited by OPG. OPG inhibits ruffled border formation in mature OCs, reduces their resorptive activity, and induces apoptosis.
authors.affiliation: Department of Oral Histology, Showa University School of Dentistry.
authors.forename: Takahisa
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Sasaki