Terms Flashcards
Receptor
Protein molecules that receive chemical signals from other cells and trigger a response in the receiving cell.
Ligands
Molecules that bind to receptors and activate them.
OPG osteoprotegerin
Cytokine receptor of the tumor necrosis factor.
Protects the skeleton from excessive bone resorption by binding to RANKL and preventing it from binding to RANK.
RANK
A receptor.
Located on the surface of osteoclasts, which are cells that break down bone.
RANKL
A ligand.
It binds to RANK and activates the osteoclasts, leading to bone resorption.
Mechanism of action
Refers to the specific biochemical interaction through which a drug substance produces its pharmacological effects. It usually includes mention of the specific molecular targets to which the drug binds such as, an enzyme or receptor.
Differentiation
A process where less specialized cells undergo changes to develop specialized structures and functions. This is the process by which stem cells transform into a cell type that can fulfill a certain function.
Osteoclastogenesis
The process of creating osteoclasts, which are a type of bone cell that break down bone tissue.
Osteoclasts
A type of cell that dissolves old or damaged bone tissue so it can be replaced. They break down bone tissue by secreting acid and collagenase, which disassemble and digest the composite of hydrated protein in mineral at a molecular level. This process is known as bone resorption.
Osteogenesis
The formation and development of bone. The process of bone formation.
Ossification
The process of laying down new bone material by cells named osteoblasts. The process of bone formation.
Peptide
A short chain of amino acids, formed by a condensation reaction, joined together through a covalent bond. Peptides are the building blocks of proteins. Peptides are involved in various biological processes such as hormone regulation, immune response, and cell communication.
