Abstract: IL-17 is the cytokine secreted by the subgroup of CD4+ T cells named T helper 17, which plays different biological characteristics in different organic environments. It suggests that IL-17 plays an important role in the apoptosis of osteoclasts. The up-regulation of Fas/Fas with the assistance of IL-17 and various cytokines may take part in apoptosis. This paper reviewed the research progress of IL-17 and its relationship with osteoclasts apoptosis.

Key words: Osteoclasts, IL-17, apoptosis, Fas/FasL