Bone resorption pathway

The "bone resorption pathway" is a cellular and molecular process by which bone tissue is actively degraded by specialized cells known as osteoclasts. The process involves recruitment and differentiation of osteoclast precursors (regulated by signals such as RANKL, CSF-1, and cytokines), localization of mature osteoclasts to bone surfaces, acidification and proteolytic digestion of bone mineral and matrix through proton pumps (vacuolar-type ATPases), chloride channels, carbonic anhydrase, and cathepsin K protease, and subsequent removal of the degradation products by endocytosis. The pathway serves critical roles in bone remodeling, calcium and phosphate homeostasis, and adaption to stress and injury[1][3][4][5]. Dysregulation leads to diseases of bone loss or excessive bone formation.

Other names

Bone resorptionBone remodeling (partial)Osteoclastic bone resorption