Cannabinoids and bone: endocannabinoids modulate human osteoclast function in vitro.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Both CB(1) and CB(2) cannabinoid receptors have been shown to play a role in bone metabolism. Crucially, previous studies have focussed on the effects of cannabinoid ligands in murine bone cells. This study aimed to investigate the effects of cannabinoids on human bone cells in vitro.

Experimental approach

Quantitative RT-PCR was used to determine expression of cannabinoid receptors and liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry was used to determine the presence of endocannabinoids in human bone cells. The effect of cannabinoids on human osteoclast formation, polarization and resorption was determined by assessing the number of cells expressing α(v) β(3) or with F-actin rings, or measurement of resorption area.

Key resul

SUBMITTER: Whyte LS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3423262 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature