Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 11, 2026

A RANKL-based Osteoclast Culture Assay of Mouse Bone Marrow to Investigate the Role of mTORC1 in Osteoclast Formation
Published on: March 15, 2018
LRP receptor family member associated bone disease
1Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, UMKC School of Dentistry, 650 East 25th Street, Kansas City, MO, 64108, USA, laran@umkc.edu.
Abstract:
A dozen years ago the identification of causal mutations in the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 (LRP5) gene involved in two rare bone disorders propelled research in the bone field in totally new directions. Since then, there have been an explosion in the number of reports that highlight the role of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in the regulation of bone homeostasis. In this review we discuss some of the most recent reports (in the past 2 years) highlighting the involvement of the members of the LRP family (LRP5, LRP6, LRP4, and more recently LRP8) in the maintenance of bone and their implications in bone diseases. These reports include records of new single nucleotides polymorphisms (SNPs) and haplotypes that suggest variants in these genes can contribute to subtle variation in bone traits to mutations that give rise to extreme bone phenotypes. All of these serve to further support and reinforce the importance of this tightly regulated pathway in bone. Furthermore, we discuss provocative reports suggesting novel approaches through inhibitors of this pathway to treat rarer diseases such as Osteoporosis-Pseudoglioma Syndrome (OPPG), Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), and Sclerosteosis/Van Buchem disease. It is hoped that by understanding the role of each component of the pathway and their involvement in bone diseases that this knowledge will allow us to develop new, more effective therapeutic approaches for more common diseases such as post-menopausal osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis as well as these rarer bone diseases.
Insights
Mutations in LRP genes significantly impact bone health, influencing bone homeostasis via the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Research highlights LRP family roles in rare and common bone diseases, guiding new therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Bone Biology
Background:
- The discovery of LRP5 gene mutations revolutionized bone research, revealing the Wnt/β-catenin pathway's critical role in bone homeostasis.
- Recent studies emphasize the involvement of LRP family members (LRP5, LRP6, LRP4, LRP8) in maintaining bone health and their association with bone diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings (last 2 years) on LRP family members and their role in bone maintenance and disease.
- To explore the genetic variations (SNPs, haplotypes) in LRP genes and their impact on bone traits and extreme bone phenotypes.
- To discuss novel therapeutic strategies targeting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway for rare and common bone diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on recent publications (past 2 years) concerning LRP family genes and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
- Analysis of genetic studies identifying single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and haplotypes in LRP genes.
- Discussion of emerging therapeutic approaches targeting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
Main Results:
- Recent reports confirm the significant role of LRP family members in bone homeostasis and disease.
- Genetic variations in LRP genes are linked to both subtle variations in bone traits and severe bone phenotypes.
- The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is a crucial regulator of bone health, with potential therapeutic targets identified.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the LRP family and Wnt/β-catenin pathway is vital for comprehending bone diseases.
- Targeting this pathway offers promising therapeutic avenues for rare bone disorders like OPPG, OI, and Sclerosteosis.
- Further research may lead to effective treatments for common bone conditions such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.
Related Concept Videos
Osteoclasts in Bone Remodeling
Enzyme-linked Receptors
Neurotrophin (NT) receptors are a family of RTKs, including trkA, trkB, and trkC (tropomyosin-related kinase) receptors. TrkA is specific for nerve growth factor (NGF), neurotrophin-6, and neurotrophin-7. TrkB binds...
Enzyme-linked Receptors
Bone Remodeling
Cell Signaling in Plants
Transducer Mechanism: Enzyme-Linked Receptors
Major types that are helpful drug targets include:

