Serum fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) and fracture risk in elderly men
Since the population in the developed world is aging, the burden of fragility fractures is a constantly increasing problem. Potent bone-specific pharmaceutical agents have become available. However, the identification of patients with a high risk of bone fractures, who will benefit from these agents, remains an important challenge. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) is a circulating factor expressed predominantly in osteoblasts and osteocytes that negatively regulates serum levels of inorganic phosphate (Pi) and 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3. Overexpression of FGF-23 in transgenic mice led to demineralization and renal phosphate leakage. Accordingly, diseases resulting in high circulating FGF-23 concentration, such as autosomic dominant hypophosphatemic rickets (which is due to stabilizing mutations in the FGF-23 gene) or tumor-induced osteomalacia (which is the consequence of FGF-23 secretion by certain tumors) are associated with generalized osteomalacia, skeletal deformities, and a high risk of fractures. FGF-23 is not, however, associated with reduced bone mineral density in the general population. Whether or not high serum FGF-23 concentrations correlate with an increased risk of fracture in the general population is unknown.
Osteoporosis: a risk factor for VTE
The incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) varies according to the presence of a number of risk factors; most notably age, immobilization, hospitalization, and surgery. In addition, aging is accompanied by an increasing incidence of chronic diseases, which can impair general health status, and may also indirectly increase the risk of VTE. One such chronic disease is osteoporosis.
Milk intake and risk of hip fracture in men and women
Milk is a major source of nutrients and is commonly believed to reduce fracture risk through its calcium and vitamin D content. However, the true benefit of milk on hip fracture prevention is not well established. In this study [1], the objective of the authors was to determine whether there is a correlation between milk intake and risk of hip fracture based on a meta-analysis of 7 prospective cohort studies in middle-aged or older men and women.
Effects of vitamin D supplementation on bone density in healthy children
Low bone mineral density is a major risk factor for osteoporotic fracture. Peak bone mass and rate of bone loss both impact on bone mineral density in later life. A 10% increase in peak bone mass is estimated to halve the risk of osteoporotic fracture in adult life. Strategies to maximize peak bone mass in children have been identified as a priority area for research.
Does birth weight predict bone mass in adulthood?
Past studies have pointed out the possible association of birth weight with bone mass in adulthood. The aim of this study [1] was to assess the strength and magnitude of the association between early size and adult bone mass.
 Download here the slide set presented by Prof. Friedlander, on Thursday, March 29th. |
