Genes That Increase the Risk of Osteoporosis and Fractures Discovered

Science Daily
Date of Publication: April 23, 2012
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/04/120423132011.htm

               Scientists have made the discovery that gene variation plays a key role in the cause of osteoporosis. The study, led by Sahlgrenska Academy, has named 56 regions of genes that come into play for bone density. For the first  time, research has helped distinguish 14 of these genetic regions that specifically are linked to risk of fracture. A study has taken place, including 80,000 women, providing a genetically diverse demographic. The results proved that women with a larger amount of the 14 genetic variants that are associated with bone fracture are 56 percent at higher risk of developing osteoporosis compared to those of average sets of gene variants. The research has provided insight on new opportunities for bone research, along with new information for treatments to osteoporosis.
                This article relates to our study of the human body, specifically the skeletal system. We learned about different types of bone cells, including osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Osteoblasts help form bones, while osteoclasts are bone destroying cells. Osteoporosis, a common bone disease, directly is associated with the imbalance of bone density when old damaged bone is no longer replaced, when osteoclasts outnumber osteoblasts. As presented in the skeletal group's presentation, osteoporosis can lead to very easily fractured bones. Lastly, in early units we studied the role of genetics and genetic variation, which when associated to diseases can put specific people carrying those genes with a predisposition.