[Mechanobiology and bone metabolism: Clinical relevance for fracture treatment].

Mechanical stimuli are known to significantly influence bone metabolism and fracture healing. Various studies have demonstrated the involvement of complex molecular mechanotransduction pathways, such as the Wnt/beta-catenin, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and estrogen receptor signaling pathways in mechanotransduction. Mechanotransduction is influenced by aging and the comorbidities of the patient. Pharmacological modulation of signal transduction influences bone formation and the mechanosensitivity of skeletal tissue. The combination of pharmacological and biomechanical therapies may be useful for the treatment of fractures with impaired healing.