Effect of auranofin on resorption, prostaglandin synthesis and ultrastructure of bone cells in cultured mouse calvaria.

Auranofin (AF) in concentrations between 3 x 10(-7) and 3 x 10(-6) mol/l stimulated bone resorption in cultured neonatal mouse calvariae significantly with 1 x 10(-6) mol/l being most potent. Complete inhibition by 5 x 10(-7) mol/l indomethacin and increased medium concentrations of prostaglandin (PG) E2 and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha after 72 h indicate a PG mediated mechanism. Morphology revealed active osteoclasts. Cytotoxic effects were observed with 3 x 10(-6) and 1 x 10(-5) mol/l AF with osteocytes and osteoblasts being considerably more sensitive than osteoclasts. The latter concentrations inhibited bone resorption stimulated by parathyroid hormone (PTH) 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, PGE2, thrombin and interleukin 1. The stimulatory effect of AF on PG production and subsequent bone resorption could limit its therapeutic usefulness.