Figure 1.

Cell surface proteins and structures involved in osteocyte mechanotransduction. Wnt receptors including Lrp5, integrin-containing focal adhesions, primary cilia, voltage-gated calcium channels, and connexin-based gap junctions are the major mechanosensors being implicated in bone cells. Upon stimulation by mechanical loading, osteocytes promote osteoblast formation by increasing Wnt ligand expression and decreasing SOST expression. Mechanical stimulation also enhances osteocyte energy production by promoting mTOR signaling.