Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for predicting and treating/preventing bone metastases in prostate cancer patients. In particular, the present invention relates to a method for predicting the occurrence of bone metastases in a prostate cancer patient comprising i) determining the level of expression of ERR? in a prostate tumor sample obtained from the patient, ii) comparing the level determined at step i) with a predetermined reference value and iii) concluding that there is a high risk that the patient develops bone metastases when the level determined at step i) is higher than the predetermined reference value or concluding that there is a low risk that the patient develops bone metastases when the level determined at step i) is lower than the predetermined reference value.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an in vitro method for determining cancer prognosis for a patient suffering from early-stage or low-grade cancer, said method comprising measuring the expression level of ERR? in a biological sample comprising cancer cells. The invention further pertains to an in vitro method for determining bone metastases prognosis for a patient suffering from bone metastases comprising measuring the expression level of ERR?. Finally, the invention pertains to in vitro methods for selecting a patient suffering from cancer, and/or from cancer-derived metastasis, suitable to be treated with a preventive/aggressive therapy.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of bone density related diseases. More particularly, the present invention relates to a ROBO1 modulator for use in a method for the treatment of a bone mineral density related disease in a subject. In a particular embodiment the ROBO1 modulator is selected from the group consisting of small organic molecules, antibodies, aptamers or polypeptides.

Abstract: Methods and pharmaceutical compositions are provided for modulating bone formation in a mammal. Methods are also provided for screening compounds for their efficacy as modulators of bone formation.

Abstract: Methods and pharmaceutical compositions are provided for modulating bone formation in a mammal. Methods are also provided for screening compounds for their efficacy as modulators of bone formation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a bone system model comprising a mineralized matrix and osteoblasts, chararacterized in that the osteoblasts are deposited onto the matrix so as to form a layer at confluence and/or nodules, and the osteoclasts are deposited onto said layer and/or said nodules, and also to bone system models affected by various pathologies. The invention also covers the uses for carrying out screenings and tests for aggressiveness and for toxicity.

Abstract: Estrogen related receptor ? (ERR?) is involved in control of cartilage formation in mammals. Increasing ERR? activity causes stimulation of cartilage formation, providing a means of therapeutic intervention in diseases such as arthritis which involve cartilage destruction. Compounds may be screened for their potential as therapeutics by screening their effect on ERR? cartilage promoting activity.

Abstract: Methods and pharmaceutical compositions are provided for modulating bone formation in a mammal. Methods are also provided for screening compounds for their efficacy as modulators of bone formation.

Abstract: Estrogen related receptor &agr; (ERR&agr;) is involved in control of cartilage formation in mammals. Increasing ERR&agr; activity causes stimulation of cartilage formation, providing a means of therapeutic intervention in diseases such as arthritis which involve cartilage destruction. Compounds may be screened for their potential as therapeutics by screening their effect on ERR&agr; cartilage promoting activity.