[Fluoride and bone metabolism].

Fluoride (F) is an essential trace element which is involved in the skeletal systems of teeth and bone. F increases proliferation of osteoblastic cells and stimulates bone formation. F inhibits acid phosphatase activity in osteoblastic cells and induces an increases in tyrosin phosphorylated protein, leading to cell proliferation. Also, the activation of G protein by F is important in the cellular mechanism of F action in osteoblastic cells. F also has inhibitory effects on osteoclastic bone resorption. The oral administration of F solution has stimulatory effects on bone formation in various animal models. Moreover, the intake of F with comparatively low doses may have beneficial effects in the development of bone mineral density and fracture in human.