Osteogenic Cells and Microenvironment of Early Bone Development and Clinical Implication

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of the complex biological processes involved in bone development and regeneration. The skeletal system serves crucial functions such as structural support, mineral storage, and organ protection. Bone development encompasses diverse cell types, matrices, and signals from embryonic stages to adulthood, with age-related decline in regeneration requiring additional support for large defects. Intramembranous and endochondral ossification processes are explored, involving differentiation of mesenchymal cells into osteoblasts and cartilage formation replaced by bone, respectively. Collagen and proteoglycans, particularly collagen I and II and heparan sulfates, play vital roles in the microenvironment for bone formation and mineralization. Signaling molecules such as BMPs, FGFs, IGFs, and PDGFs important for proliferation and differentiation of bone precursors, embryonic development, growth and maintenance of mature bone include regeneration and angiogenesis. Cell-based approaches, microenvironment-based technologies, and signal-based technologies utilizing growth factors are explored as bone regeneration strategies. Understanding these processes, factors, and technologies is pivotal in improving the treatment of conditions such as osteoporosis, fractures, and bone reconstruction, ultimately developing new technologies.