Scanning Electron Microscopic Analysis of the Bone-Resorption Activity in Mature Osteoclasts

Bone homeostasis depends on the balance between bone deposition and bone resorption, which are mediated by the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, respectively. Blocking osteoclast activity can be a therapeutic strategy in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to reduce subsequent bone erosion. Therefore, investigating the activity of osteoclasts is essential for understanding the pathology of RA. Bone-resorption pits, which are caused by activated osteoclasts, are significantly increased in RA. Scanning electron microscopic analysis of bone-resorption pits is an effective method for understanding the pathology of RA. This chapter describes the method for observing the surface microstructure of pit formation on bone slices.