The effects of the cathepsin K inhibitor odanacatib on osteoclastic bone resorption and vesicular trafficking

► The cathepsin K inhibitor odanacatib inhibits bone resorption without affecting osteoclastogenesis, survival, migration or activation (polarization). ► Odanacatib decreases overall osteoclast resorption efficiency by inhibiting collagen degradation in the resorption lacunae and disrupting transcytosis. ► Odanacatib treatment leads to significant retention of intracellular vesicles containing cathepsin K, TRAP and bone matrix proteins.