Prostaglandin F2a: A bone remodeling mediator

Prostaglandin F2a (PGF2a) plays multiple roles on bone metabolism by regulating a wide range of signaling pathways. PGF2a, via activation of PKC, stimulates Na-dependent inorganic phosphate (Pi) transport system in osteoblasts; up-regulates interleukin (IL)-6 synthesis; increases vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In addition, PGF2a acts as a strong mitogenic and survival agent on osteoblasts, and these effects are, at least in part, mediated by the binding of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) to the specific receptor FGFR1. The understanding of PGF2a intracellular network, albeit complex to clarify, provides molecular bases useful to identify the players of osteoblast proliferation, apoptosis, and the associated angiogenic processes. Indeed, the molecular mechanism that underline PGF2a-regulated bone metabolism may be a promising platform for the development of novel targeted therapies in the treatment of bone disorders and disease. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 2529, 2013. (c) 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.