320020 VO Pharmacology of bone (2011W)

An introduction to mechanisms of bone resorption and formation, calcium and phosphate homeostasis and the mechanism of action of drugs to prevent bone degradation. This course will cover basic pharmacology concepts as well as specific drug classes related to metabolic bone diseases, such as osteoporosis. The first half of the course includes lectures on osteoclast and osteoblast function, receptors, regulation by local and systemic factors. The second half of the course includes lectures on methods to isolate and culture bone cells, therapeutic agents, pharmacokinetics and drug metabolism in bone diseases. Osteoporosis is the most common disease affecting the elderly and the most efficient therapy is prophylaxis. Thus, pharmacists have an important role in informing patients about the risks of bone loss and preventive therapy.