Scientists from the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, found that parathyroid hormone regulates the “talk” between the brain and bone tissue. Research published in the journal Neuron.
According to recent research, bones support an active metabolism and interact closely with the brain via nerves. It is assumed that hormones play a mediating role in this interaction.
In a new study, scientists found that a special subfornic organ in the brain in mice has receptors for parathyroid hormone (PTH) from the parathyroid glands. This means that the brain is sensitive to PTH. Also, it turns out that this body itself can regulate the level of PTH.
It is known that PTH is a powerful regulator of calcium and phosphate balance and can change the functioning of bone cells. Scientists have found that exposure to the subfornic organ can lead to both increased and decreased bone density.
“Traditionally, the subfornic organ has been considered the center of water-salt balance. Our study shows that its functions are much broader,” he said.
Understanding the chemical signaling between the brain and bone will help develop more effective and safer drugs against osteoporosis and other bone metabolism disorders.