New insights into the mechanisms of bisphosphonates action

Bisphosphonates are nowdays the most common class of drugs used to prevent and treat skeletal disorders related to diseases resulting from increased osteoclastic activity, such as multiple myeloma, metastatic cancer, Paget’s disease, as well as for management of osteoporosis. The use of bisphosphonates as promoters of osseointegration for dental implants is currently being investigated. Their application in joint arthroplasty for optimizing long-term success has also produced promising results. However, the knowledge of their mechanisms of action is constantly being enriched or modified. Each bisphosphonate has its own unique profile regarding its binding affinity with bone mineral and intracellular biochemical activities. The supposed relation between their pharmacological differences and clinical effectiveness has not yet been confirmed. It appears that the major difference between bisphosphonates arises from their biochemical targets (after their cellular uptake). The aim of this study is to report new insights into the mechanisms of action of bisphosphonates.