# The biological function of integrin-linked kinase on bone formation

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how integrin-linked kinase (ILK) influences bone formation and could be a new treatment target for osteoporosis.

## Contribution

The paper highlights ILK's role in bone marrow stromal cells and osteoblasts through key signaling pathways and its potential as a therapeutic target for osteoporosis.

## Key findings

- ILK affects BMSCs and osteoblasts via MAPK, BMP, and Wnt signaling pathways.
- ILK is involved in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis and may be a novel treatment target.
- ILK plays a crucial role in angiogenic–osteogenic coupling.

## Abstract

Bone remodeling process is the basis for maintaining normal bone microstructure and promoting fracture repair. Recent studies have proven that integrins can promote bone formation and fracture repair. Integrin-linked kinase (ILK), as the proximal effector of the integrin receptor, is a key protein factor linking integrin and cytoskeleton. It is involved in crucial cellular processes including proliferation, survival, differentiation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis reflects on systemic changes in the kidney, heart, muscle, skin, and vascular system. At present, the regulation effect of ILK in bone formation attracts the attention of researchers. This review emphasizes that ILK as a key molecule affects the functions of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) and osteoblasts, and regulates bone formation. Additionally, ILK plays a key role in the process of“angiogenic–osteogenic coupling ”. The present role of ILK in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis is also described. Strategies that target ILK may as a new prospective treatment for osteoporosis (OP).

•ILK serves as a key molecule that affects the function of BMSCs and osteoblasts via MAPK, BMP, and Wnt signaling pathways.•ILK is involved in osteoporosis pathogenesis, and ILK-targeted therapies may emerge as a novel treatment for OP.•ILK may play a crucial role in the process of “angiogenic–osteogenic coupling”.

ILK serves as a key molecule that affects the function of BMSCs and osteoblasts via MAPK, BMP, and Wnt signaling pathways.

ILK is involved in osteoporosis pathogenesis, and ILK-targeted therapies may emerge as a novel treatment for OP.

ILK may play a crucial role in the process of “angiogenic–osteogenic coupling”.