Bone ; Energy metabolism ; Leptin ; Serotonin ; Neurotransmitter agents ; Osteocalcin
Abstract
Bone remodeling requires a large amount of energy, and is regulated by various hormones. Leptin, produced by adipocytes, is a well-known regulator of energy balance and is also involved in controlling bone mass through interaction with the central nervous system. Serotonin, downstream of leptin, is also emerging as a candidate for controlling energy balance and bone metabolism. Currently, bone is also considered to be an endocrine regulator of energy metabolism. Osteocalcin, secreted from osteoblasts, is known to be a key regulator of glucose and fat metabolism. In this review, we describe a novel concept that asserts that there exists a biological link between bone and energy metabolism, and we summarize what is currently known about the relationship between bone and energy metabolism.