NFATc1: Functions in osteoclasts

NFATc1 is an important transcription factor which is critical for lineage selection in T-cell differentiation, cardiac valve morphogenesis, lymphatic endothelial development, osteoblast differentiation and osteoclastogenesis. Especially, it is a master regulator of RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation and plays a pivotal role in osteoclast fusion and osteoclast activation via up-regulation of various genes responsible for osteoclast adhesion, migration, acidification, degradation of inorganic and organic bone matrix. In the present review, some of the known features of NFATc1 such as structure, function and its roles in physiological or pathophysiological processes are highlighted. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.