PYK2 INHIBITORS FOR STIMULATION OF OSTEOBLAST FUNCTION

The present invention relates to methods of stimulating osteoblast function with a PYK2 inhibitor in subjects with osteoporosis, bone fractures, non-unions, pseudoarthroses, periodontal disease or other disorders of bone metabolism. Optionally, the method further comprises administration of a second therapeutic bone agent. The present invention also relates to methods to identify a PYK2 inhibitor effective as a therapeutic bone agent comprising administering a test agent to an osteoblast-like cell and determining if osteoblast function is stimulated. Optionally, the identifying method further comprises contacting the test agent with PYK2 and determining if PYK2 activity is inhibited.