BoneKEy-Osteovision | Perspective

Mechanical loading and bone formation

Charles H Turner
Alexander G Robling

---

DOI:10.1138/20040135

Abstract

Mechanical loading provides an anabolic stimulus for bone. More importantly, the mechanosensing apparatus in bone directs osteogenesis to where it is most needed for improving bone strength. The biological processes involved in bone mechanotransduction are poorly understood, and further investigation of the molecular mechanisms involved might uncover drug targets for osteoporosis. Several pathways are emerging from current research, including membrane ion channels, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) signaling, and second messengers, such as prostaglandins and nitric oxide. Some key molecular targets include the alpha 1C isoform of the L-type calcium channel, a gadolinium-sensitive stretch-activated channel, P2Y2 and P2X7 purinergic receptors, EP2 and EP4 prostanoid receptors, and the parathyroid hormone receptor.

---

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.