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Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Isolation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Human Alveolar Periosteum and Effects of Vitamin D on Osteogenic Activity of Periosteum-derived Cells
06:47

Isolation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Human Alveolar Periosteum and Effects of Vitamin D on Osteogenic Activity of Periosteum-derived Cells

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[The role of the mevalonate pathway in osteogenic cells]

Yoshiko Ishimi1

  • 1Division of Applied Food Research, National Institute of Health and Nutrition.

Clinical Calcium
|March 19, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Statins promote bone growth by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase in the mevalonate pathway. Bisphosphonates also target this pathway to treat osteoporosis, suggesting its crucial role in bone metabolism.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Bone Biology
  • Pharmacology

Context:

  • The mevalonate pathway is crucial for cholesterol synthesis.
  • Statins, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, promote bone growth.
  • Bisphosphonates used for osteoporosis target the mevalonate pathway.

Purpose:

  • To describe the involvement of the mevalonate pathway in bone metabolism.
  • To explore the dual role of the mevalonate pathway in cholesterol synthesis and bone homeostasis.

Summary:

  • Inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase by statins stimulates bone formation in vitro and in vivo.
  • Nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates induce osteoclast apoptosis via mevalonate pathway inhibition.
  • These findings highlight the mevalonate pathway's significance in regulating bone metabolism.

Impact:

  • Provides a deeper understanding of the mevalonate pathway's role in bone biology.
  • Suggests potential therapeutic strategies targeting the mevalonate pathway for bone disorders.
  • Connects cholesterol metabolism regulation with bone health and disease management.

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