Primary mouse osteoblast and osteoclast culturing and analysis

Abstract

Mesenchymal-derived osteoblasts play a key role in bone formation via synthesis and mineralization of the bone and bone remodeling. Osteoclasts are multinucleated cells of hematopoietic origin with a role in bone resorption. Here, we describe a protocol for generating primary cultures of these two cell types from bone tissue including the femur, tibia, and humerus of young mice. We describe methods for addressing their activity and/or differentiation, enabling studying the effects of various treatments during or following differentiation <i>ex vivo</i>. For further practical example of using these protocols, please refer to Chevalier et al. (2020).