Animal Model for Glucocorticoid Induced Osteoporosis: A Systematic Review from 2011 to 2021

Andy Xavier1,2, Hechmi Toumi1,2,3, Eric Lespessailles1,2,3

  • 1EA 4708 I3MTO Laboratory, Orleans University, 45067 Orleans, France.

Insights

This systematic review highlights the need for standardized animal models in glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) research. Improved precision in model selection and reporting is crucial for developing effective GIOP treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Osteoporosis Research
  • Animal Models

Background:

  • Glucocorticoids (GCs) are widely used but induce bone loss and increase fracture risk, leading to glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP).
  • Emerging drugs aim to prevent and treat GIOP, yet consensus on optimal animal models is lacking.
  • Standardization of animal models is essential for reliable preclinical GIOP research.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and analyze animal models used for studying GIOP.
  • To evaluate study design, drug administration, group sizes, and outcome measures in GIOP animal models.
  • To identify areas for improvement in GIOP animal model establishment and reporting.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature search conducted in PubMed using MeSH terms (April 2011 - February 2021).
  • Screening of 284 full-text articles, with 53 included in the final analysis.
  • Adherence to the PRISMA 2020 statement for systematic reviews.

Main Results:

  • Rats (66%) and mice (32%) were the most common species for GIOP modeling.
  • Male mice (58%) were predominantly used, with genetically modified animals comprising 28% of mouse studies.
  • Variability noted in study design, drug dosage, group allocation, and outcome measurement methods.

Conclusions:

  • There is a significant need to standardize the establishment of GIOP animal models for enhanced precision.
  • Recommendations include improved model selection, standardized reporting of study design, and consistent outcome measure conduction.
  • Standardization will facilitate more reliable preclinical data and accelerate the development of effective GIOP therapies.