Extensive morphological analysis demonstrates the importance of tunneling nanotubes for intercellular communication in osteoclast differentiation, especially in the fusion process of osteoclast precursors. Successful detection of nanotubes was also demonstrated in cultured primary osteoclasts resorbing dentin slices, and in osteoclasts in bone destruction sites of arthritic rats. Tunneling nanotubes are important for the differentiation of osteoclasts, both in vitro and in vivo.
- Jing-Qi Zhang
- Akira Takahashi
- Toshio Kukita
