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Updated: Oct 9, 2026

Osteoclast Derivation from Mouse Bone Marrow
Published on: November 6, 2014
Osteoprotegerin, a crucial regulator of bone metabolism, also regulates B cell development and function
T J Yun1, M D Tallquist, A Aicher
1Department of Immunology, and Regional Primate Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
Abstract:
Osteoprotegerin (OPG) is a CD40-regulated gene in B cells and dendritic cells (DCs). We investigated the role of OPG in the immune system by generating opg(-/-) mice. Like its role as a regulator of bone metabolism, OPG also influences processes in the immune system, notably in B cell development. Ex vivo, opg(-/-) pro-B cells have enhanced proliferation to IL-7, and in opg(-/-) spleen, there is an accumulation of type 1 transitional B cells. Furthermore, opg(-/-) bone marrow-derived DCs are more effective in stimulating allogeneic T cells than control DCs. When challenged with a T-dependent Ag, opg(-/-) mice had a compromised ability to sustain an IgG3 Ag-specific response. Thus, in the immune system, OPG regulates B cell maturation and development of efficient Ab responses.
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