Osteoporosis: molecular pathogenesis and therapeutic interventions

Area of Science:

• Bone Biology and Skeletal Diseases
• Molecular Mechanisms of Disease

Background:

• Osteoporosis is a prevalent systemic skeletal disease characterized by reduced bone mass and increased fragility.
• It results from a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors, leading to bone resorption exceeding bone formation.
• The condition significantly impacts global health and quality of life, necessitating effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of the physiological basis of bone structure and its relationship with osteoporosis.
• To systematically examine the molecular mechanisms underlying osteoporosis development.
• To summarize recent advancements in osteoporosis diagnosis and therapeutic interventions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on bone physiology and osteoporosis.
• Systematic analysis of molecular mechanisms including genetics, inflammation, oxidative stress, signaling pathways, gut microbiota, autophagy, and iron metabolism.
• Comprehensive summary of diagnostic methods and therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

• Detailed explanation of bone structure and its link to osteoporosis.
• In-depth review of molecular pathways implicated in osteoporosis.
• Overview of current therapeutic approaches, including Western medicine, Chinese herbal medicine, non-pharmacological management, and novel strategies.

Conclusions:

• Osteoporosis development is multifactorial, involving intricate molecular pathways.
• A range of therapeutic options exist, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.
• Further research is needed to bridge the gap between emerging treatments and clinical application for improved osteoporosis management.