[Estrogen and bone metabolism--basic research]
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026

A Novel in vivo Gene Transfer Technique and in vitro Cell Based Assays for the Study of Bone Loss in Musculoskeletal Disorders
Published on: June 8, 2014
Hirotaka Kawano1, Hiroshi Kawaguchi
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo.
Abstract:
Biological functions of estrogen are exerted mainly through binding to the nuclear receptors, estrogen receptor alpha, beta (ERalpha, beta) , which regulate the transcription of target genes. Recent studies have revealed its direct effect on bone at molecular level, which is mediated by a complicated network of various cytokines. In addition, it is suggested not only that both estrogen and androgen have independent roles in bone metabolism, but also they have common non-genotropic and anti-apoptotic pathways in bone cells.
Related Concept Videos
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...
Hormones and Bone Tissue
Hormones That Influence Osteoblasts and/or Maintain the Matrix
Several hormones are necessary for controlling bone growth and maintaining the bone matrix. The pituitary gland secretes growth hormone (GH), which, as its name implies, controls bone growth. This happens in several ways: first, it triggers chondrocyte...
Osteoclasts in Bone Remodeling
Bone Remodeling and Repair
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...

