Research progress on the link between macrophage subtypes and osteoclast formation

Abstract:

Immune system plays critical roles in bone regeneration. Macrophages， as an important component of the immune system， are highly plastic and can polarize to M1 and M2 subtypes depending on microenvironmental changes. Recently， the role of osteoclasts in bone regeneration has gradually gained attention. Although macrophages are precursors of osteoclasts that play an important role in bone regeneration through the macrophage-osteoclast axis， it is still controversial that which subtype of macrophages is more likely to fuse to form osteoclasts. In this paper， we have reviewed the recent research progress related to the relationship between macrophage subtypes and osteoclast formation， aiming to provide a comprehensive basis and more comprehensive knowledge for further research.