Modulators of the CLC-7 chloride channel and methods for their identification and use in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis and related disease states

A method for the treatment of osteoporosis, comprising:

• (a) identifying a patient having osteoporosis;
• and
• (b) administering to said patient a therapeutically effective amount of a modulator of CLC-7.

A method for the prevention of osteoporosis, comprising:

• (a) identifying a patient at risk for osteoporosis;
• and
• (b) administering to said patient a therapeutically effective amount of a modulator of CLC-7.

A method of decreasing the differentiation of osteoclast precursor cells into osteoclast cells or decreasing the activity of mature osteoclasts, comprising contacting said osteoclast precursor cells with a CLC-7 modulator.

A compound capable of modulating the activity of CLC-7.