Research on bone health and repair. Covers bone healing, mineral density, skeletal evolution, and radiopharmaceutical trials.
Researchers developed a method to harden bones by growing aragonite on their surfaces, making them 50-70% sturdier. This technique has wide implications for preserving valuable remains and restoring cultural clues.
A recent study at Mayo Clinic suggests that certain types of fractures in children may be linked to lower bone strength and a higher risk of osteoporotic fractures later in life. The study found that children with mild-trauma distal forearm fractures had weaker bones compared to those with moderate trauma or no fractures.
Researchers at UC Davis have developed a new MRI technique called Active-MRI that captures the movement of the wrist in real-time. This allows for more accurate diagnosis of conditions such as wrist instability, which can be misaligned and cause chronic pain and osteoarthritis.
Researchers at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research have developed the first genetic model of syngnathia, a rare congenital disorder characterized by fused upper and lower jaws. The study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the defect, which affects regions such as the head, heart, or gut.
A 1.4 million-year-old fossil hand bone from East Africa has revealed a modern human-like hand anatomy, bridging the evolutionary gap between humans and their nonhuman primate ancestors. The discovery indicates that early humans possessed dexterous hands capable of precise tool use.
Researchers found evidence of cat domestication in ancient China, tracing it back to farmers 5,300 years ago. The study analyzed bones from excavated sites and discovered that cats were attracted to rodents and other small animals in farming villages.
A 13-year study confirms that Neanderthals in western Europe intentionally buried their dead, revealing a relatively sophisticated cognitive capacity. The discovery reduces the behavioral distance between Neanderthals and modern humans.
Five young investigators from China, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Pakistan received the IOF Young Investigator Awards for outstanding bone health research. The awards recognize the top-scoring abstracts presented at the 4th Asia-Pacific Osteoporosis Meeting.
A team of researchers, including a scientist from Case Western Reserve University, have announced the discovery of a new species of fossil horse from 4.4 million-year-old deposits in Ethiopia. The newly named Eurygnathohippus woldegabrieli had three-toed hooves and grazed grasslands and shrubby woods.
The Asia-Pacific region will see a dramatic rise in osteoporosis and related fractures by 2050, with more than half of hip fractures occurring in Asia. The report highlights the need for immediate action to reduce future costs and disability.
A new report by the International Osteoporosis Foundation warns that Hong Kong's rapidly ageing population will lead to a significant increase in hip fractures, resulting in severe disability and early deaths. The report recommends prioritizing osteoporosis treatment and prevention to mitigate this growing health problem.
Researchers found that chloroquine treatment increased TRAF3 levels in osteoclast precursor cells, limiting osteoclast generation and bone resorption. The study suggests that therapies targeting TRAF3 may help prevent bone loss in individuals with osteoporosis.
Researchers discovered an association between oncometabolite 2-hydroxyglutarate (2-HG) levels and DNA methylation patterns with breast cancer prognosis. Chloroquine treatment was found to limit osteoclast generation, suggesting potential therapeutic applications.
Researchers have identified a new potent and selective PI3Kdelta inhibitor, GS-9820, which regulates osteoclast shape and resorptive activity. This discovery offers a potential new approach for treating inflammatory bone diseases and skeletal metastases.
Researchers developed a novel biomimetic tissue engineered bone graft that successfully repaired bone defects in rabbits. The graft, consisting of rabbit adipose derived stem cells and a porous beta-tricalcium phosphate scaffold, promoted osteogenesis and was biocompatible.
Researchers have developed a new sea coral-based material that considerably improves the outcome of bone grafts in 16 patients. The material, called coralline hydroxyapatite/calcium carbonate (CHACC), has been shown to biodegrade after two years and promote natural bone healing.
A Vanderbilt University study found nearly half of orthopaedic surgeons sustain injuries during their careers, with inadequate resources available to them. The study also revealed that 38% of respondents reported no institutional resources, leading to increased lost productivity.
Researchers found that genetic differences in a vitamin D carrier protein referred to as D-binding protein could explain the discrepancy between diagnosed vitamin D deficiency and lack of symptoms in black Americans. The study suggests that current methods may not accurately determine vitamin D deficiency, leading to unnecessary treatm...
Medical researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a potential drug target for a rare genetic disease, paving the way for an alternative treatment. The discovery links specific defects in the enzyme to specific symptoms and could lead to the development of drugs to treat less severe forms of the disease.
New research suggests tea consumption may help prevent chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Tea has been found to promote weight loss, improve bone health, and activate areas of the brain that bolster attention, problem-solving, and mood.
Cancer patients are at increased risk of bone disease and fractures due to the primary disease or treatment therapies. The IOF review emphasizes the importance of early evaluation and treatment with evidence-based pathways to prevent skeletal-related events and bone loss.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh developed a system to attract regulatory T-cells to inflamed gums, reducing inflammation and improving periodontal disease symptoms. The treatment showed promise in animal studies, offering a new therapeutic paradigm for treating gum disease.
New research published in PLOS ONE confirms the presence of tuberculosis from 7,000 years ago in a human skeleton from Hungary. Analysis of ancient DNA and lipids on the bones revealed a bacterial complex associated with tuberculosis.
Loyola researchers found that zoledronic acid's kidney failure and calcium deficiency risks are extremely rare. The study of 237 patients showed a slight decline in calcium levels after the first infusion, but this effect is transient and only significant for those with normal vitamin D levels.
Scientists have identified two types of rare bone tumors linked to specific mutations in the H3F3A and H3F3B genes. These mutations are found in nearly 100% of patients suffering from chondroblastoma and giant cell tumor of the bone, offering a new diagnostic tool and potential treatment.
Researchers at Princeton University have found that microRNAs can reduce the number of osteoclasts present in bones, inhibiting their forced labor. This could lead to effective treatment targets for tackling bone metastasis and help detect cancer's spread to the bone.
Research identifies NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) as a promoter of bone resorption and osteoclastogenesis. Genetic disruption or inhibition of NOX4 has been shown to protect against bone loss in mouse models.
Researchers developed a sound preconditioning protocol that protected mice from drug-induced hearing loss and increased expression of heat shock proteins in the inner ear. This finding suggests that sound therapy may protect hearing in patients requiring treatment with ototoxic drugs.
A study found that binge drinking slows bone healing by impairing the formation of hard bony tissue and recruiting stem cells to the injury site. Alcohol also increases oxidative stress, which can lead to weaker bones.
Researchers report two cases of early intraprosthetic dislocation with dual-mobility hip implants, suggesting a potential link to mixed-component designs. The study highlights the need for clinicians to carefully evaluate and monitor patients receiving these implants.
Researchers found that osteocalcin, a bone-derived hormone, plays a powerful role in prenatal brain development and cognitive functions such as learning, memory, anxiety, and depression. Osteocalcin promotes the birth of neurons, increases neurotransmitter synthesis, and affects behavior in adult mice.
A study published in Clinical Endocrinology found a strong association between the FTO gene and hip fracture risk in women. Women with the high-risk genotype had an increased risk of hip fracture of up to 16%, whereas those with low-risk genotypes had a lower risk of about 10%.
A recent study published in The Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that vitamin D supplements do not reduce bone turnover or protect bone health in postmenopausal women. In contrast, calcium supplements significantly reduced bone turnover and decreased the risk of osteoporosis.
A new nanotube surface could improve the success rate of dental implants by reducing infection and promoting bone growth. The technology, developed by Michigan Technological University researchers, uses titanium dioxide nanotubes to create a surface that can combat bacterial infections and promote healing.
Researchers at UC Davis have found evidence that Neandertals, not modern humans, made the first specialized bone tools in Europe. The discoveries were made by undergraduate student Naomi Martisius and her adviser Teresa E. Steele, who identified the tools as part of a decade-long excavation project.
Nanodiamonds have been found to promote bone growth and deliver proteins to treat osteonecrosis, a debilitating disease that causes bones to break down. The tiny diamonds can be administered non-invasively, potentially revolutionizing dental implant procedures.
New research suggests that terror birds were likely herbivores, based on the analysis of calcium isotope composition in their fossilized bones. The study found that the terror bird's diet was similar to that of herbivorous mammals and dinosaurs, indicating a non-carnivorous diet.
A Penn study found that lamin-A, a protective protein in the nucleus, plays a key role in regulating stem cell differentiation and tissue stiffness. The research revealed a correlation between lamin-A levels and elasticity in various tissues.
Researchers found that certain genes, such as CXCL12 and IGF1, make breast cancer cells more likely to survive in bone tissue by mimicking the environment of their preferred organ. This discovery could lead to new drugs that prevent cancer spread to bone or other organs.
Researchers have uncovered evidence of early Holocene hunter-gatherer settlements in the Bolivian Amazon, dating back approximately 10,400 years. The discovery of 'shell middens' reveals human presence in the region, with samples showing a mix of animal bones, freshwater snail shells, and pottery.
A new study highlights the economic benefits of knee replacement surgery, finding that patients can save nearly $40,000 in indirect costs, resulting in lifetime societal savings of $10,000-$30,000. The study estimates that total knee replacement surgeries will exceed 3 million by 2030 due to an aging population.
Researchers found that a gene related to vitamin D action, measured at birth, predicts bone density in children by four years of age. Vitamin D levels during pregnancy are also linked to the gene's activity.
Researchers at UTSA and SwRI are developing a synthetic drug-loaded scaffold for bone grafting, which could improve treatment outcomes for patients with large bone defects. The scaffold would be scalable and include drug-microparticles that release active growth factors to promote bone cell formation.
A study at the University of Eastern Finland found that abnormal bone properties in children with vertebral fractures and after solid organ transplantation can predict fracture risk. Bone histomorphometry revealed changes in bone composition that could explain increased fracture risk.
Researchers have identified a staph-killing compound and developed a new mouse model to test its effectiveness. The study may lead to new strategies for restoring bone balance, even if the infection is not fully eliminated.
Researchers identify CTHRC1 as a key molecule linking bone resorption and formation, suggesting potential treatment targets for osteoporosis. Mice with deficient CTHRC1 secretion exhibit lower bone mass, highlighting the molecule's role in age-related bone loss.
Researchers have identified prolactin as a potential treatment for inflammatory joint disease, reducing chondrocyte death and associated cartilage degradation. A protein called CTHRC1 has also been linked to bone health, suggesting it could be a target for osteoporosis treatment.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new coating for medical implants that can boost bone cell growth by nearly 80%, potentially leading to faster healing of joint replacements and broken bones. The coating, made of tiny metal oxide wires, allows bone cells to cling more easily and form a stronger bond with the implant.
A team of researchers led by Dr. Miaozong Wu will investigate the effects of space travel on muscles and bones, identifying possible causes and developing potential treatments. The three-year project aims to address the significant health risks faced by astronauts and people experiencing muscle and bone loss due to various conditions.
Researchers in Granada have successfully generated bone tissue from umbilical cord stem cells using a novel biomaterial. The breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for bone and cartilage lesions, as well as the regeneration of bones in patients with osseous system pathologies.
A recent study found that vitamin D-deficient older individuals are more likely to struggle with everyday tasks and experience physical decline. The researchers suggest that vitamin D supplementation could help prevent these issues, but further studies are needed to confirm the findings.
Fructooliogosaccharides, found in chicory and other fruits/vegetables, provide prebiotic properties that stimulate gut microbiota production. They also enhance flavor, reduce sugar content and increase calcium absorption, supporting bone health.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab's Advanced Light Source found that vitamin D deficiency not only reduces bone mineralization but also induces premature aging of existing bone. This accelerates the risk of fractures in patients with vitamin D deficiency.
The Kessler Foundation received significant funding for research on spinal cord injuries, including studies on assisted walking with Ekso and the impact of aging on cardiovascular health. The grants will help advance therapies that improve function and quality of life for individuals with SCI.
University of Oklahoma Norman campus researchers received $135,000 OCAST grants for three-year health research projects. The recipients will study advanced treatments for bone defects, viral RNA structure to develop new drugs, and the control of mosquito-transmitted diseases.
A new study found that patients who understand their potential risk for another fracture are more likely to take action. Knowing bone health and osteoporosis is pivotal in preventing future fractures.
The discovery of flower beds in graves at Raqefet Cave reveals Natufian burial rituals dating back to 13,700 years ago. Researchers found impressions of Salvia plants and other species, indicating the use of colorful flowers in springtime burials.
Higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids from fish and flax are linked to lower risk of hip fractures in postmenopausal women, according to a recent study. The study found that higher omega-6 to omega-3 ratio increased the risk for hip fracture.
Researchers measured vitamin D levels in the US population and found they peak in August and trough in February. This seasonal variation may help explain the role of vitamin D in seasonal illnesses such as the flu.
A new compound has been identified that can kill staph bacteria causing bone infections. A mouse model has also been developed to test the compound and generate additional therapeutic strategies.