Research on bone health and repair. Covers bone healing, mineral density, skeletal evolution, and radiopharmaceutical trials.
Researchers at Oregon State University have successfully used gene therapy to aid weight loss in rats without causing significant bone loss. The study, published in the Journal of Endocrinology, found that delivering leptin directly to the brain via gene therapy reduced abdominal fat and preserved bone density.
Researchers used cadaver arms in experiments supporting the idea that human hands evolved for both manual dexterity and fistfighting. They found humans can safely strike with 55% more force with a fully buttressed fist than with an unbuttressed fist.
The study of Durrington Walls pottery and animal bones shows evidence of planned autumn and winter slaughtering, mass animal consumption, particularly pigs, and barbecue-style roasting. This suggests a well-organized community with shared understanding of food preparation and consumption.
A study found that greater neighborhood access to fast-food outlets is associated with poorer bone development in early childhood, while increased exposure to healthy specialty stores is linked to higher bone mass. The research suggests that improving the food environment could optimize childhood bone development.
Researchers at Indiana University have discovered how cancer-induced bone destruction causes skeletal muscle weakness. Inhibiting TGF-β improved muscle function in mouse models of human cancers.
Researchers have sequenced the full genome of an ancient African male skeleton, revealing significantly more Eurasian ancestry than previously thought. The study estimates that 4-7% of African genomes trace back to a Eurasian source, with gene flow reaching Central, West and Southern Africa.
Researchers identified calcium channel blockers and antibodies blocking IL-17A as potential treatments for parathyroid hormone-driven bone loss. Elevated levels of IL-17A are seen in autoimmune diseases like psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn's disease, which sometimes involve bone loss as a secondary symptom.
A new review emphasizes the significance of nutrition throughout life for maintaining a healthy skeleton, particularly in children and seniors who are at risk of osteoporosis. The study finds that adequate intake of calcium, vitamin D, and protein can help prevent premature bone loss and fractures.
A commentary published in CMAJ argues that prescribing antibiotics after joint surgery has little evidence to support it. Research suggests that bone cement impregnated with antibiotics is a more effective practice, but its use is not widespread.
A new study led by University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine researchers demonstrates that protein Del-1 can inhibit bone loss associated with periodontitis. The protein curbs the activity of osteoclasts, cells that absorb bone tissue, leading to a mechanistic explanation of how Del-1 can prevent periodontal bone loss.
Researchers found that microscopic bone analysis can identify previously mummified skeletons, revealing a wider practice of mummification in Bronze Age Britain. The study suggests that ancient Britons used different methods to mummify their dead, including smoking over fires and burial in peat bogs.
Two studies published in The BMJ conclude that increasing calcium intake through supplements or dietary sources has no significant impact on bone health or fracture prevention. Experts argue that mass medication with high doses of calcium and vitamin D is not justified due to the risk of adverse events.
Researchers at Yale University have found that hunger neurons control not only hunger and appetite but also regulate bone mass. The study reveals that lower levels of hunger are associated with lower bone density, highlighting a new mechanism in the regulation of skeletal bone metabolism.
Researchers have found evidence of giant killer lizards coexisting with early Australian humans around 50,000 years ago. The discovery sheds light on the potential drivers of megafauna extinction during this period.
Researchers found that the Alzheimer's drug donepezil increases bone mass in mice by preventing osteoclasts from being made, reducing the risk of bone fractures. The study suggests that treating Alzheimer's disease with donepezil may also be beneficial for patients with osteoporosis.
Researchers at University of Alaska Fairbanks discovered 11,500-year-old chum salmon bones indicating Ice Age humans in North America used salmon as a food source. The findings suggest ancient Beringian diets were broader and human colonization of North America may have been influenced by salmon fishing.
Researchers at IRB Barcelona have discovered the MAF gene is a reliable predictor of breast cancer bone metastasis. The study, published in JNCI, analyzed over 900 clinical samples and found that MAF-altered tumors are 14 times more likely to develop bone metastasis.
Researchers have discovered a molecule produced by skeletal muscle that increases bone mass and strength. This finding has significant implications for treating sarcopenia and osteoporosis, two conditions that often occur together.
Researchers have identified a genetic variant regulating bone mineral density and fracture risk, which could lead to interventions that prevent fractures in older adults. The study found that the engrailed homeobox-1 gene plays a central role in regulating bone density.
A new study from the UNC School of Medicine reveals that a diabetes drug called rosiglitazone substantially increases bone fat, leading to an increased risk of bone fractures. However, exercise has been shown to decrease bone fat by around 10%, which can help mitigate this risk.
A decade-long study shows growth hormone continues to reduce fracture risk and maintain bone density in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. The treatment's effects were found to last for years after it was administered.
A recent study highlights the risk of catastrophic complications from failure of modular head-neck prostheses in hip-replacement surgery. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery has issued a 'Watch' to raise awareness and encourage further research into this issue.
Researchers are developing 3D-printed biodegradable polymer scaffolds to accelerate bone growth in head and neck injuries. The technology has the potential to produce mechanically strong replaced bone with minimal inflammation and within a short healing period.
Researchers investigate how mechanical loading affects bone strength and disease-related fragility by studying collagen's biological mechanism. The study aims to deliver new understanding of mechanically-induced adaptation in bone and provide ways to target bone disease through collagen modulation.
A Vanderbilt study found that breaking down fibrin is essential for fracture repair, contradicting previous assumptions. The study also suggests that impaired fibrin clearance may be a key factor in conditions like obesity and diabetes impeding fracture healing.
A new test measures changes in calcium isotope ratios to monitor bone diseases like osteoporosis and multiple myeloma. The test, validated on NASA space shuttle astronauts' blood samples, shows promise for near-time monitoring of bone health.
A team of Vanderbilt investigators has discovered that fibrin breakdown is essential for fracture healing, contradicting previous assumptions. The findings have significant implications for efforts to promote fracture repair and may lead to new treatments by reducing or enhancing fibrin levels.
Two classes of inexpensive generic drugs, aromatase inhibitors and bisphosphonates, have been shown to improve survival prospects for postmenopausal women with early breast cancer. The combination of the two types of drug may also increase benefits while decreasing some side-effects.
A new study found that the administration of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychotropic component of cannabis, significantly enhances the healing process of bone fractures. The study, conducted on rats with mid-femoral fractures, showed that CBD markedly improves bone healing after just eight weeks.
A study found that GPR40 deficiency leads to an aggravated OA phenotype characterized by higher cartilage breakdown and subchondral bone sclerosis. Activation of GPR40 protects joints from OA, providing new insights into innovative strategies for OA management.
Researchers found that hibernating black bears suppress resorption of bone tissue to maintain their skeleton, protecting bones by reducing resorption. This discovery provides insights into how these animals conserve energy and bone mass during long periods of inactivity.
Scientists have developed a novel technique for bioprinting at ambient temperatures, creating a paste capable of incorporating cells and proteins. This innovative material can sustain stresses similar to cancellous bone and is being explored as an injectable bone defect filler or scaffold for larger reconstructions.
Researchers found two distinct gene signals associated with bone strength, one specific to girls and another for boys. These genetic variants are linked to lower bone mineral density, increasing the risk of wrist fractures in children. The study's findings may inform targeted recommendations for children carrying these genetic risks.
A special issue of Calcified Tissue International & Musculoskeletal Research explores the relationship between bone material properties and skeletal fragility. The collection of reviews provides a comprehensive overview of the latest findings on mineral, collagen, and water compartments in bone.
Researchers discovered a link between heart disease and lower bone mineral density, with women more affected. The study suggests that heart disease may weaken bones, increasing risk of fractures.
Researchers at NYU Polytechnic School of Engineering and NYU School of Medicine are exploring a new method to amplify the body's signaling system for recruiting bone-forming stem cells to injured areas. They plan to focus on a single recruitment factor, CXCL12, which they hypothesize plays key roles in promoting osteogenesis.
A comprehensive classification of rare genetic metabolic bone disorders has been developed, categorizing them into four major groups based on their metabolic pathway. This taxonomy provides valuable information for diagnosis, genetic testing, and the development of orphan drugs.
Use of bisphosphonates declined by 50% from 2008 to 2012 following media reports on rare fractures. The study published in Journal of Bone and Mineral Research reveals a dramatic drop in osteoporosis medication use.
A genetically engineered mouse with weaker bones has a strong metabolism, suggesting a potential link between bone health and obesity-related type 2 diabetes. The study highlights the endocrine role of bone in regulating metabolism, and its exploration may lead to new avenues for treatment.
Researchers discovered a statistically significant increase in osteoblast formation when human mesenchymal stem cells were treated with the compound SR2595, which targets PPARy. The findings demonstrate a new therapeutic application for drugs targeting PPARy and may have broader implications for treating metabolic and bone diseases.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen found that using the intestinal hormone GLP-1 in obesity treatment prevents bone loss and increases blood levels of bone formation markers. This has significant implications for future obesity treatment, particularly for menopausal women at risk of osteoporosis.
Research published in BMJ Open found that weekend screen time is associated with lower bone mineral density in teen boys, while teenage girls with different body fat distribution may be protected from the negative effects of screen time on their bones. The study suggests that persisting associations between sedentary activities and bon...
Researchers at the University of Liverpool use digital modeling to reassess the mass of Dreadnoughtus, a massive plant-eating dinosaur. They find that estimates of 60 tonnes and above are unlikely, suggesting it may have weighed between 30-40 tonnes.
Researchers discovered an enzyme called LysYl Oxidase (LOX) that enhances the spread of breast cancer to the bone. Treatment with bisphosphonate, a class of existing drugs for osteoporosis, has shown promise in preventing bone damage and tumour cell metastasis.
A recent study published in the BMJ finds that anti-osteoporotic medication is not effective in preventing hip fractures among older adults. The research highlights that falls and balance disorders are more significant contributors to hip fractures than bone brittleness, challenging current treatment strategies.
The dominant approach to hip fracture prevention is neither viable nor cost-effective, according to experts. The focus on drug treatment overlooks feasible alternative strategies like physical activity, which can have little to do with osteoporosis but are often overlooked.
Researchers found a 35,000-year-old wolf bone in Siberia that reveals the most recent common ancestor of modern wolves and dogs. The discovery sheds light on the early origins of dog domestication, with implications for our understanding of human-wolf relationships.
A study found that osteoporosis screening rates increased among women at age 50, despite guidelines suggesting screening at age 65 unless risk factors are present. The presence of risk factors had a modest influence on screening decisions.
Researchers used chemical signatures on otoliths to track Alaska's Bristol Bay salmon, revealing birthplaces and life histories. The technique can help scientists understand freshwater habitats and conservation efforts for Chinook salmon populations.
A team of researchers has developed a novel method to regenerate bone tissue using the protein signals produced by stem cells. The approach is more sustainable and less risky than current standard therapies, which rely on ground-up bones from cadavers.
A green dye called TAPP can kill bacteria on bone fragments and break up biofilms when exposed to light, reducing the risk of infections during reconstructive surgery. The study found that the dye binds tightly to bone without leaching out into surrounding fluid, suggesting a safe and non-toxic application.
A new University of Alberta study reveals that older workers (65+ years old) are more susceptible to severe injuries but less likely to receive modified work duties or rehabilitation. Researchers call for a revised approach to assess and treat injured workers, prioritizing their return to work.
Researchers at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Dentistry have identified Adseverin as a key driver behind bone loss associated with periodontitis and other inflammatory diseases. The protein plays a critical role in generating larger osteoclasts, leading to rapid bone loss.
A study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that people with osteoporosis are at a 1.76-fold higher risk of developing sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Researchers analyzed medical records of over 10,600 individuals with osteoporosis and found that they were more likely to be diag...
Researchers at University of Cincinnati uncover evidence that bison, deer and other present-day species survived Ice Age climate change, while mammoths and mastodons perished. Fossil analysis reveals radical shifts in environmental temperature and vegetation, forcing animals to adapt or die.
Researchers at Arizona State University are working with the University of Tennessee's Anthropological Research Facility to analyze human remains using isotopic analysis. The team aims to determine a person's diet, birthplace, and travel history using oxygen, hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, strontium, and lead isotopes.
Scientists discovered that a species of bone-eating worm, Osedax, originated at least 100 million years ago and subsisted on prehistoric reptile bones. The discovery suggests that Osedax may have prevented many skeletons from becoming fossilized, affecting our knowledge of extinct marine life.
A study found that dialysis patients with high parathyroid hormone levels and subsequent bone loss are at risk for worsening coronary artery calcification. Monitoring these factors could help prevent cardiovascular problems and early death in dialysis patients.
A newly developed drug may also be effective in treating brittle bone disease, a rare genetic disorder that affects bone formation. The therapy has shown promising results in young mice with the condition, with no reduction in midshaft bone strength after treatment stopped.
A UNSW Australia collaboration uses previously top-secret technology to image whole body organs at a cellular level, reducing analysis time from 25 years to weeks. The technology, developed with Google algorithms, explores osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, revealing connections between blood, bone, lymphatics, and muscle.