Bone metabolism and adipokines: are there perspectives for bone diseases drug discovery?

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Over the past 20 years, the idea that white adipose tissue (WAT) is simply an energy depot organ has been radically changed. Indeed, present understanding suggests WAT to be an endocrine organ capable of producing and secreting a wide variety of proteins termed adipokines. These adipokines appear to be relevant factors involved in a number of different functions, including metabolism, immune response, inflammation and bone metabolism.

AREAS COVERED:

In this review, the authors focus on the effects of several adipose tissue-derived factors in bone pathophysiology. They also consider how the modification of the adipokine network could potentially lead to promising treatment options for bone diseases.

EXPERT OPINION:

There are currently substantial developments being made in the understanding of the interplay between bone metabolism and the metabolic system. These insights could potentially lead to the development of new treatment strategies and interventions with the aim of successful outcomes in many people affected by bone disorders. Specifically, future research should look into the intimate mechanisms regulating peripheral and central activity of adipokines as it has potential for novel drug discovery.

• Authors: Morena Scotece, Javier Conde, Vanessa Abella, Verónica López, Jesús Pino, Francisca Lago, Juan J Gómez-Reino, Oreste Gualillo
• Journal: Expert opinion on drug discovery (Expert Opin Drug Discov) Vol. 9 Issue 8 Pg. 945-57 (Aug 2014) ISSN: 1746-045X [Electronic] England
• PMID: 24857197 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)

Chemical References

• Adipokines

Topics

• Adipokines (metabolism)
• Adipose Tissue, White (metabolism)
• Animals
• Bone Diseases (drug therapy, physiopathology)
• Bone and Bones (metabolism)
• Drug Design
• Drug Discovery
• Humans
• Inflammation (metabolism)