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There is a complex interplay between the cells of the immune system and bone. Immune cells, such as T and NK cells, are able to enhance osteoclast formation via the production of RANKL. Yet there is increasing evidence to show that during the resolution of inflammation or as a consequence of increased osteoclastogenesis there is an anabolic response via the formation of more osteoblasts. Furthermore, osteoblasts themselves are involved in the control of immune cell function, thus promoting the resolution of inflammation. Hence, the concept of "coupling"-how bone formation is linked to resorption-needs to be more inclusive rather than restricting our focus to osteoblast-osteoclast interactions as in a whole organism these cells are never in isolation. This review will investigate the role of immune cells in normal bone homeostasis and in inflammatory diseases where the balance between resorption and formation is lost.

Original publication

DOI

10.1007/s00223-013-9764-0

Type

Journal article

Journal

Calcif tissue int

Publication Date

01/2014

Volume

94

Pages

98 - 111

Keywords

Animals, Bone Resorption, Humans, Immune System, Inflammation, Osteoclasts, Osteocytes, Osteogenesis