Purinergic Signalling in Bone

Dear Colleagues,

Bone is a highly dynamic and specialized connective tissue. It is composed of inorganic mineral salts deposited within an organic collagen matrix, and three main types of bone cells: osteoclasts, osteoblasts and osteocytes. Bone homeostasis is maintained by the balanced functions of bone cells, while functional imbalance results in abnormal bone homeostasis and disease development. Bone homeostasis is largely influenced by substances present in the microenvironment. Extracellular purines and purinergic signalling are one of the most primitive forms of intercellular signalling. Purinergic signalling defines a group of receptors and intermembrane channels activated by extracellular purines such as ATP, ADP and AMP. Bone cells express multiple purinergic receptors. Metabolisms or tissue injuries can change the concentration of extracellular purines, influencing bone cell functions through purinergic receptors. It is now recognized that purinergic signalling is a modulator of many physiological and pathological conditions in bone, such as osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis and cancers.

This Special Issue aims to cover a selection of recent research topics and current review articles related to purinergic signalling in bone. Up-to-date review articles, commentaries and experimental papers are all welcome.

Dr. Noriko Takegahara
Dr. Hyunsoo Kim
Guest Editors

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