Cellular and molecular mechanobiology of bone tissue

Several data support the concept that skeletal homeostasis, repair and adaptation to daily life depend on mechanically-induced signals that promote appropriate responses of bone cells. This review considers the cells that are responsive to mechanical signals within the bone environment, and the molecular mechanisms involved in mechanotransduction, the process by which cells convert mechanical stimuli in biochemical signals and subsequently modify biological activity. Understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying bone responses to mechanical loads will positively impact current knowledge on basic bone biology and pathophysiology and will likely contribute to the development of new interventions to improve bone strength.