Osteoblastic cell responses to zoledronate treatment in-vitro: a systematic review

This review systematically examines the in vitro effects of zoledronate (ZOL), a nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate, on osteoblastic cell behavior in-vitro. ZOL is widely used in treating bone diseases like osteoporosis and cancer-related bone conditions, but its impact on osteoblasts, the bone-forming cells, remains unclear. The review compiles data from studies between 2004-2024, analyzing dose- and time-dependent responses of osteoblasts to ZOL, including effects on metabolic activity, cell number, protein and gene expression, and bone mineralization. By providing a comprehensive overview of the available research, this review aims to guide future studies and improve understanding of ZOL's broader implications for bone health, especially in light of its long-term clinical use.