Osteoclasts precursor cells are generated in the bone marrow from hematopoietic stem cells, and form osteoclasts in the affected sites to resorb bone. Many cytokines or growth factors could potentially induce osteoclast formation directly or indirectly from osteoclasts precursor cells to mediate bone loss. Blockade of signaling pathways in differentiation of osteoclasts precursor cells into osteoclasts may be an effective therapeutic strategy to prevent bone loss in a variety of common bone diseases. The authors reviewed the research advances about the origin and characteristics of osteoclasts precursor cells and regulation of their functions.
