Natural Occurring Compounds Inhibit Osteoclastogenesis via Targeting NFATc1-related Signaling Pathways

Osteoclasts are originated from monocytic precursors of the hematopoietic lineage. Regulation of gene expression by transcription factors is one of the major mechanisms for controlling cellular functions. This is particularly important in the process of osteoclast production. As a main regulatory transcriptional factor, nuclear factor of activated T-cells cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1) plays a significant role in osteoclast differentiation. Although current studies focus on the regulatory effects of treatment in the process of osteoclastogenesis, many of these drugs possess cytotoxicity which is harmful to bone formation. Naturally occurring compounds with less or no side effects are most required in present clinical and fundamental study. In this paper, we summarize several plant-derived compounds in inhibiting osteoclastogenesis.