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Osteocalcin and its endocrine functions
Akiko Mizokami1, Tomoyo Kawakubo-Yasukochi2, Masato Hirata3
1Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry and, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; OBT Research Center, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan.
Biochemical Pharmacology
|February 13, 2017
Summary
Bone is an endocrine organ regulating metabolism. Osteocalcin, a bone hormone, improves glucose and energy balance, potentially treating metabolic disorders.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic research
- Bone biology
Background:
- Bone traditionally viewed as structural, now recognized as endocrine organ.
- Osteocalcin, secreted by osteoblasts, regulates glucose and energy metabolism.
- Evidence suggests bone's role in systemic metabolic homeostasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the endocrine functions of osteocalcin.
- To summarize osteocalcin's modes of action in metabolic regulation.
- To explore osteocalcin as a therapeutic agent for metabolic disorders.
Main Methods:
- Review of accumulated evidence from the past decade.
- Analysis of animal studies on osteocalcin administration.
- Examination of epidemiological data in humans.
Main Results:
- Osteocalcin stimulates insulin production and enhances insulin sensitivity.
- Increased osteocalcin levels prevent obesity and glucose intolerance in animal models.
- Epidemiological studies support osteocalcin's role in human metabolic regulation.
Conclusions:
- Osteocalcin functions as a key hormone in metabolic regulation.
- Osteocalcin holds potential as a preventive or therapeutic agent for metabolic disorders.
- Further research into osteocalcin's mechanisms is warranted.
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