Mouse models of senile osteoporosis.

Little is known about the pathophysiology of normal human and mouse senescence. On the other hand, the pathology of age-related disorders, such as senile osteoporosis, has been investigated. In vivo studies on the pathology of osteoporosis have been conducted primarily in rodents. Although mouse models of senile osteoporosis display some discrepancies relative to their human counterparts with regard to symptoms and pathology, these experimental models are useful and powerful tools for basic and preclinical studies. Here, we review existing mouse models of senile osteoporosis, including those exhibiting premature aging phenotypes, and discuss their pathogenesis, particularly with regard to age-related changes in stem cells.