Objective To study the change of Ca2+ density in cultured osteoclast- like cells in response to fluid shear stress. Methods Laser scanning confocal microscope and fluorescent probe were used to detect the free Ca2+ in osteoclast- like cells before and after undergoing fluid shear stress. The images were analyzed and compared with image software. Results At 37 ℃ the free Ca2+ in osteoclast- like cells could be labelled effectively with 10 μmol/L Fluo- 3/AM. Compared with contol group, the average intensity of Ca2+ fluorescent signal in osteoclast- like cells undergoing fluid shear stress increased significantly. Conclusion The Ca2+ concentration in bone- marrow derived osteoclast- like cells is sensitive to fluid shear stress, which suggests osteoclast - like cells modulate their function in response to fluid shear stress through the change of free Ca2+ concentration.
