c-Fms/CSF-1R is a transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor belonging to the CSF1/PDGF receptor family. It is encoded by the c-Fms proto-oncogene and is expressed in mononuclear phagocytes, oocytes, decidual cells, trophoblastic cells and some myoblasts. It is important for growth and differentiation of myeloid cells and its function can be regulated by SLAP-2. c-Fms/CSF-1R is responsible for mediating all of the functions of M-CSF. M-CSF is a glycoprotein required for the proliferation and differentiation of mononuclear phagocytes, including osteoclasts. M-CSF has also been identified as an important mediator of the inflammatory response and can regulate the release of proinflammatory cytokines from macrophages.