The Growing Significance of microRNAs in Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is an aging-related disease characterized by low bone mineral density and deteriorated bone structure, resulting in an increased risk of fractures. Currently, most osteoporosis therapies target osteoclasts to inhibit bone resorption, while the three FDA-approved anabolic agents include parathyroid hormone, parathyroid hormone-related protein, and anti-sclerostin antibody that promote osteoblast function. However, long-term treatment with these agents is associated with potential adverse effects and decreased therapeutic efficacy. This has prompted exploration of novel therapeutic strategies, including microRNAs (miRNAs), which are emerging as promising candidates. miRNAs have been reported to play important roles in regulating pathways involved in bone formation and resorption. In addition to their direct roles in osteoblasts and osteoclasts, miRNAs also serve as key mediators of communication between these cells, which is essential for maintaining bone homeostasis. The complexity of osteoporosis requires versatile regulators such as miRNAs that can modulate multiple biological pathways. Recent studies have demonstrated the potential of miRNA-based therapy to restore bone homeostasis in osteoporotic models. However, further studies are needed to develop tissue-specific delivery systems and evaluate long-term safety to improve the therapeutic potential of miRNAs as new osteoporosis drugs.