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Review
. 2014 Mar;12(1):107-14.
doi: 10.1007/s11914-014-0188-1.

Developments in sclerostin biology: regulation of gene expression, mechanisms of action, and physiological functions

Megan M Weivoda  1 , Merry Jo Oursler
Affiliations
Review

Developments in sclerostin biology: regulation of gene expression, mechanisms of action, and physiological functions

Megan M Weivoda et al. Curr Osteoporos Rep. 2014 Mar.

Abstract

The SOST gene, which encodes the protein sclerostin, was identified through genetic linkage analysis of sclerosteosis and van Buchem's disease patients. Sclerostin is a secreted glycoprotein that binds to the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related proteins 4, 5, and 6 to inhibit Wnt signaling. Since the initial discovery of sclerostin, much understanding has been gained into the role of this protein in the regulation of skeletal biology. In this article, we discuss the latest findings in the regulation of SOST expression, sclerostin mechanisms of action, and the potential utility of targeting sclerostin in conditions of low bone mass.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest

MM Weivoda declares no conflicts of interest.

MJ Oursler declares no conflicts of interest.

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