Bone mass through the lifespan

Abstract

Bones provide mechanical support for joints, tendons and ligaments, protect vital organs, and act as a reservoir for calcium and phosphate in the preservation of normal mineral homeostasis. Bone is a complex and dynamic tissue that undergoes renewal and repair throughout life as the result of bone remodelling. Most diseases of bone result from abnormalities in bone remodelling that compromise the architecture, structure and mechanical strength of bone, leading to clinical symptoms such as pain, deformity, fracture and abnormalities of calcium and phosphate homeostasis. This contribution offers an overview of: the growth of bone, peak bone mass, the composition of bone, bone remodelling, the regulation of bone remodelling and resulting bone disease.