[Osteoclast size regulation and its mechanism].

Osteoclasts are multinucleated cells deriving from the monocyte/macrophage haematopoietic lineage. They contain large amount of tartrate resistant acid phosphatase and cathepsin K and play an important role in resorption of mineralized tissues such as bone and dentine. The resorption capabilities by osteoclasts are thought to be associated with several oral diseases such as periodontitis, periapical periodontitis, peri-implantitis and osteoporosis. Osteoclast size is one of the key evaluating parameters of osteoclast resorption activities. Findings of osteoclast size regulation research may provide a novel breakthrough for the treatment of bone resorption disorder diseases. This article summarized and reviewed the previous relevant experiments and studies of osteoclast size regulation and its mechanism.