EP receptor agonists and other osteogenic therapies for bone repair

There is growing evidence that new molecules targeting either EP ₂ or EP₄ receptors can enhance osteogenesis when injected locally, and hence may have potential application in bone repair. This could be of particular value in enhancing the healing of fractures, and the bridging of surgical osteotomy gaps in children with growth defects. In addition, EP ₄ agonists show promise in the prevention and restoration of ovariectomy-induced bone loss. Phase II and III trials with these compounds should allow their evaluation for use in humans, with the understanding that side effects due to the ubiquitous and overlapping distribution of EP receptors may pose a therapeutic challenge.