Balancing between build-up and break-down of bone

(Osaka University) Researchers at Osaka University have shown that SLPI, a secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor, coordinates the mutually contradictory actions of parathyroid hormone (PTH) on bone. They revealed the genetic mechanisms and molecular pathways whereby SLPI promotes osteoblast activity to augment bone mass and showed how osteoblasts interact with osteoclasts to subdue bone resorption. This knowledge will inform clinical usage of anabolic PTH in osteoporosis as well as promote deve...