Molecular mechanisms of bone resorption an update

Abstract

The osteoclast is morphologically and functionally polarized (Figure 1), with a pole facing the bone matrix, where attachment occurs and towards which most of the secretion is targeted (the apical pole), and a pole facing the soft tissues in the local microenvironment (bone marrow or periosteum) and which provides mostly, but not exclusively, regulatory functions (the basolateral pole). © 1995 Informa UK Ltd All rights reserved: reproduction in whole or part not permitted.