Protective role of irisin on bone in osteoporosis: a systematic review of rodent studies

Osteoporosis is defined as a bone disease that is characterized by a reduction in bone mass and an elevated risk of fracture. Irisin, which is regulated by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC1α), is a muscle-derived protein that is induced by exercise. A number of studies have indicated that irisin has the capacity to stimulate bone formation and decrease bone resorption, which plays a crucial role in bone metabolism. Regular exercise has been demonstrated to be an effective method for maintaining and enhancing bone health, with irisin emerging as a key regulatory molecule in this process. In light of these findings, irisin represents a promising approach for the treatment of osteoporosis. Animal studies are an essential part of the clinical trial process, as they are used to assess the efficacy and potential risks associated with proposed interventions. The objective of this review was to conduct a systematic review of animal studies and discuss the effects and mechanisms of irisin on bone in osteoporosis. A systematic search was conducted across eight databases, resulting in the identification, data extraction, and quality assessment of 27 articles. The results demonstrate that irisin can restore the steady state of bone homeostasis through the activation or inhibition of multiple pathways. It can ameliorate the microstructural damage and bone turnover caused by osteoporosis; improve the response to bone mechanical stress; promote the proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization of osteoblasts; and play an important role in exercise-based prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Furthermore, irisin can attenuate inflammatory changes in bone and participate in the regulation of cell death. This review was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42024539678).