| Theme |
Osteoporosis and urolithiasis induced by microgravity |
| Title |
Osteopontin and mechanical stress |
| Author |
Masaki Noda |
Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical & Dental University |
| Author |
Hisataka Kondo |
Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical & Dental University |
| Author |
Ruchanee Salingcarnboriboon |
Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical & Dental University |
| Author |
Chung Churyon |
Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical & Dental University |
| Author |
Michihiko Usui |
Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical & Dental University |
| [ Summary ] |
Osteopontin conatains an integrin binding domain as well as calcium binding sites. These features make the molecule fit into the mechanism which convey mechanical signals from the substrate, such as bone tissue, to cells. Mechanical stress has been shown to alter the expression of osteopontin genes in osteoblasts or mesenchymal cells. Osteopontin deficiency reduces bone responses to unloanding induced events, such as increases in osteoclastic bone resorption and decreases in osteoblastic bone formation. This review will discuss the possible roles of osteopontin in mechanical stress induced events in bone tissue. |