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Published on: March 18, 2019

Leukemia inhibitory factor: a paracrine mediator of bone metabolism

Natalie A Sims1, Rachelle W Johnson

  • 1St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria 3065, Australia. nsims@svi.edu.au

Growth Factors (Chur, Switzerland)
|February 7, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) regulates skeletal remodeling by signaling through LIF receptor (LIFR) and glycoprotein-130. LIF

Area of Science:

  • Skeletal Biology
  • Cytokine Signaling
  • Cell Differentiation

Background:

  • Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is an interleukin-6 family cytokine.
  • LIF plays a role in physiological functions, including skeletal remodeling.
  • LIF signals via LIF receptor (LIFR) and glycoprotein-130 (gp130).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the expression and regulation of LIF and LIFR in bone.
  • To examine LIF's cell-specific effects on skeletal cell differentiation.
  • To discuss LIF's role in skeletal growth, maintenance, and disease.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of LIF and LIFR expression and function in the skeletal system.
  • Analysis of LIF's influence on osteoblasts, osteoclasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes.
  • Discussion of signaling pathways activated by LIF.

Main Results:

  • LIF and LIFR are expressed in various bone cells, including osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes.
  • LIF exhibits cell-type-specific effects on differentiation, influenced by cell state.
  • LIF signaling impacts normal skeletal growth, pathological states, and inflammatory conditions.

Conclusions:

  • LIF is a key regulator of skeletal homeostasis and disease.
  • Understanding LIF signaling pathways is crucial for bone formation and resorption.
  • LIF's diverse roles highlight its therapeutic potential in skeletal disorders.

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