Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 20, 2025

Non-invasive Skeletal Muscle Quantification in Small Animals Using Micro-computed Tomography
Published on: November 8, 2024
Analysis of RAMP3 gene polymorphism with body composition and bone density in young and elderly women
Jai Prakash1, Maria Herlin2, Jitender Kumar3
1Lund University, Dept. of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Clinical and Molecular Osteoporosis Research Unit, Sweden.
Background And Aim:
The Receptor Activity Modifying Proteins (RAMPs) are a group of accessory proteins, of which there are three in humans, that interact with a number of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) and play various roles in regulation of endocrine signaling. Studies in RAMP3 knockout (KO) mice reveal an age related phenotype with altered metabolic regulation and high bone mass. To translate these findings into a clinically relevant perspective, we investigated the association between RAMP3 gene variants, body composition and bone phenotypes in two population-based cohorts of Swedish women.
Methods:
Five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the vicinity of the RAMP3 gene were genotyped in the PEAK-25 cohort (n = 1061; 25 years) and OPRA (n = 1044; 75 years). Bone mineral density (BMD), fat mass and lean mass (total body; regional) were measured by DXA at baseline, 5 and 10 year follow-up.
Results:
BMD did not differ with RAMP3 genotype in either cohort, although fracture risk was increased in the elderly women (OR 2.695 [95% CI 1.514-4.801]). Fat mass tended to be higher with RAMP3 SNPs; although only in elderly women. In the young women, changes in BMI and fat mass between ages 25-35 differed by genotype (p = 0.001; p < 0.001).
Conclusion:
Variation in RAMP3 may contribute to age-related changes in body composition and risk of fracture.
Related Concept Videos
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...
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Distribution
Changes in the Appendicular Skeleton with Age
Initially, the limb buds consist of a core of mesenchyme covered by a layer of ectoderm. The ectoderm at the end of the limb bud thickens to form a narrow crest called the apical ectodermal ridge. This ridge stimulates the underlying...
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Excretion

