Figure 1
From: The role of TNF-receptor family members and other TRAF-dependent receptors in bone resorption
Simplified schematic view of the interactions between membrane-bound RANKL on osteoblast/bone stromal cells and its receptor RANK on osteoclast precursor cells. This interaction leads to the differentiation of osteoclast precursor cells and the activation of osteoclasts to resorb bone. OPG can inhibit this interaction by binding to membrane-bound RANKL and blocking the RANKL-RANK interaction. D3, vitamin D3; M-CSF, macrophage-colony stimulating factor; OC, osteoclast.