| [ Summary ] |
Accumulating evidence clearly indicates both thyroid hormone and estrogen play pivotal roles in bone metabolism. The pituitary hormones, TSH and FSH, regulate circulating levels of thyroid hormone and estrogen, respectively. It has been suggested that either TSH or FSH also directly affect bone cells involved in bone resorption and formation. Other pituitary hormones, such as oxytocin and vasopressin, are also thought to be involved in bone metabolism. However, a number of investigations of genetically manipulated model mice and clinical data from patients with certain diseases have provided inconsistent results. Thus, more data is required to answer the question as to whether or not pituitary hormones are physiologically or pathophysiologically involved in control of bone metabolism in humans. |