Strontium and strontium ranelate: Historical review of some of their functions

- Strontium (Sr) possesses various physiological influence mechanisms on the bone.
- Scientific research defined different Sr doses for cell cultures, animals and humans.
- Sr displays the influence on stem cells and apoptosis.
- There exist less known effects of Sr on tissues other than bone tissue.

The review covers historical and last decade's scientific literature on the biological and clinical role of strontium (Sr) and strontium ranelate (Sr RAN). It enrols the description of the main effects of Sr on supportive tissue, its proven and possible morphopathogenetical mechanisms and the interaction with the bone, and especially focuses on the Sr ability to inhibit osteoclasts and affect the programmed cell death. The main experimental and clinical experience regarding the Sr RAN influence in the treatment of osteoporosis and the search for correct doses is also highlighted. The review gives insight into the role of Sr/Sr RAN on stem cells, apoptosis, animal and clinical research.

101