Role of K+ and Ca2+-Permeable Channels in Osteoblast Functions

Bone-forming cells or osteoblasts play an important role in bone modeling and remodeling processes. Osteoblast differentiation or osteoblastogenesis is orchestrated by multiple intracellular signaling pathways (e.g., bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP) and Wnt signaling pathways) and is modulated by the extracellular environment (e.g., parathyroid hormone (PTH), vitamin D, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta), and integrins). The regulation of bone homeostasis depends on the proper differentiation and function of osteoblast lineage cells from osteogenic precursors to osteocytes. Intracellular Ca2+ signaling relies on the control of numerous processes in osteoblast lineage cells, including cell growth, differentiation, migration, and gene expression. In addition, hyperpolarization via the activation of K+ channels indirectly promotes Ca2+ signaling in osteoblast lineage cells. An improved understanding of the fundamental physiological and pathophysiological processes in bone homeostasis requires detailed investigations of osteoblast lineage cells. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the functional impacts of K+ channels and Ca2+-permeable channels, which critically regulate Ca2+ signaling in osteoblast lineage cells to maintain bone homeostasis.

Automated summary

Osteoblasts are crucial in bone modeling and remodeling, with their differentiation being regulated by various signaling pathways. Proper bone homeostasis depends on the differentiation and function of osteoblast lineage cells. Ca2+ signaling controls many processes in osteoblast lineage cells, and K+ channel activation indirectly influences Ca2+ signaling.