Lysophosphatidic acid: Its role in bone cell biology and potential for use in bone regeneration

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a simple phospholipid that exerts pleiotropic effects on numerous cell types by activating its family of cognate G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and participates in many biological processes, including organismal development, wound healing, and carcinogenesis. Bone cells, such as bone marrow mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells (BMSCs), osteoblasts, osteocytes and osteoclasts play essential roles in bone homeostasis and repair. Previous studies have identified the presence of specific LPA receptors in these bone cells. In recent years, an increasing number of cellular effects of LPA, such as the induction of cell proliferation, survival, migration, differentiation and cytokine secretion, have been found in different bone cells. Moreover, some biomaterials containing LPA have shown the ability to enhance osteogenesis. This review will focus on findings associated with LPA functions in these bone cells and present current studies related to the application of LPA in bone regenerative medicine. Further understanding this information will help us develop better strategies for bone healing.