GLOSSARY

RANKL–RANK–OPG Regulatory System
RANKL promotes osteoclast differentiation through RANK, while OPG acts as a decoy receptor limiting this interaction.

Three organs in communication. Calcium and phosphate regulation coordinates intestine, kidney and bone through PTH, vitamin D-related signals and FGF23. Ionized calcium, renal function and tissue responsiveness influence the pattern. Serum concentration alone does not measure skeletal mineral stores.

A distinction that matters. The balance links osteoblast-lineage signaling with bone resorption.

Bone under load. Mechanical loading supplies local signals that interact with endocrine state, adequate energy and nutrient availability. A circulating bone marker can reflect several skeletal sites and does not independently prove stronger bone or predict fracture risk.