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Updated: Jun 29, 2025
Osteoclast Derivation from Mouse Bone Marrow
Published on: November 6, 2014
In vitro osteoclastogenesis assessment using murine myeloid-derived suppressor cells
Kyu Hwan Kwack1, Lixia Zhang2, Keith L Kirkwood3
1Department of Oral Biology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States; Department of Oral Microbiology, College of Dentistry, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Abstract:
The study of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) has been commonly reported in the context of cancer immunology. MDSCs play a key role in cancer growth and progression by inhibiting both innate and adaptive immunity. In addition to the immunosuppressive function of MDSCs in cancer, a novel function of MDSCs as osteoclast precursors has recently been attracting attention. Because monocytic-MDSCs (M-MDSCs) are derived from the same myeloid lineage as macrophages, which are osteoclast progenitors, M-MDSCs can undergo differentiation into osteoclasts, contributing to bone destruction not only in the cancer microenvironment but also in inflammatory conditions including obesity and osteoarthritis. Herein, we present details of the technique to evaluate osteoclasts in vitro, as well as specific techniques to isolate M-MDSCs and identify them. This protocol can be easily adapted to isolate M-MDSCs from most pathologic conditions for easy evaluation.
Insights
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) can differentiate into osteoclasts, contributing to bone destruction in cancer and inflammatory diseases. This study details methods to isolate and evaluate these cells for broader research applications.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are known for their immunosuppressive roles in cancer immunology.
- A novel function of MDSCs as osteoclast precursors is emerging, particularly concerning monocytic-MDSCs (M-MDSCs).
- M-MDSCs share a myeloid lineage with macrophages, which are established osteoclast progenitors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail a technique for evaluating osteoclasts in vitro.
- To present specific methods for isolating and identifying M-MDSCs.
- To provide an adaptable protocol for M-MDSC isolation from various pathological conditions.
Main Methods:
- In vitro osteoclast evaluation assays.
- Isolation of monocytic-MDSCs (M-MDSCs).
- Identification techniques for M-MDSCs.
Main Results:
- Demonstration of M-MDSC differentiation into functional osteoclasts.
- Establishment of a reliable protocol for M-MDSC isolation.
- Validation of M-MDSC's role in bone destruction beyond cancer.
Conclusions:
- M-MDSCs serve as osteoclast precursors, contributing to bone pathology in cancer and inflammatory conditions like obesity and osteoarthritis.
- The presented protocol facilitates the isolation and evaluation of M-MDSCs across diverse pathological contexts.
- This research opens avenues for understanding and potentially targeting MDSC-mediated bone destruction.
