Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
Overview of bone mineral density in postmenopausal women
1Department of Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, USA.
Abstract:
The risk of osteoporosis is directly related to factors that influence bone remodeling premenopausally and postmenopausally. Some of these factors are nonmodifiable--for example, race and the genetic control of osteogenesis. Other factors, such as lifestyle, exercise and nutrition, can be influenced to enhance bone mineral accrual and thereby lessen the risk of or even prevent osteoporosis. Central to the health of the bone-remodeling cycle is the role of the sex steroids estrogen and androgen, and their bioavailability to estrogen and androgen receptors in the osteoclasts, osteoblasts and osteocytes. Apart from their direct action on bone cells, sex steroids modulate the bone-preserving function of modifiable factors. The efficacy of sex steroids is proportional to their bioavailability in the "free" form. This is equally true of endogenously synthesized hormones and of hormone replacement therapy.
Related Concept Videos
Bone Remodeling
Osteoclasts in Bone Remodeling
Bone Disorders
Bone deposition is also affected by the levels of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone that promote osteoblast activity and bone matrix synthesis. When the level of these hormones decreases due to aging, it causes a reduction in bone deposition. As a result, bone resorption by osteoclasts...
Essential Minerals for Bone Health
Calcium and Phosphorus
Calcium is a critical component of bones, especially in the form of calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate. Since the body cannot make calcium, it must be obtained from the diet. However, calcium cannot be absorbed from the small intestine without...
Role of Vitamins in Maintaining Bone Health
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is involved in the process of bone remodeling. Retinoic acid, the active metabolite of Vitamin A, has nuclear receptors in osteoblasts and osteoclasts, which are involved in bone remodeling.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 acts as a cofactor during the formation of osteoblast-related proteins, such as osteocalcin. Vitamin B12 plays a role...
Menopause

