Scientists at the Van Andel Research Institute have identified an important factor in reducing bone density that could lead to effective medications for women with osteoporosis. The research was published in the journal Science Advances.
About 19% of women aged 50 years and older in the US have osteoporosis of the hip and lower spine. Bone fragility due to osteoporosis increases the risk of fracture and poses a significant risk to health and quality of life.
In a new study, scientists found that blocking the activity of the KDM5C gene preserved bone mass in aged mice. This gene works by changing the activity of other genes associated with bone cells. KDM5C is located on the X chromosome, which may explain the increased risk of osteoporosis in women.
Various drugs have been approved for the treatment of osteoporosis, but fear of rare, serious side effects often hinders their use. Treatments using the hormone estrogen are also available, but they are only recommended for short-term use at low doses, in part because of their association with cancer risk.