The Role of Epigenomics in Osteoporosis and Osteoporotic Vertebral Fracture

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a complex multifactorial condition of the musculoskeletal system. Osteoporosis and osteoporotic vertebral fracture (OVF) are associated with high medical costs and can lead to poor quality of life. Genetic factors are important in determining bone mass and structure, as well as any predisposition for bone degradation and OVF. However, genetic factors are not enough to explain osteoporosis development and OVF occurrence. Epigenetics describes a mechanism for controlling gene expression and cellular processes without altering DNA sequences. The main mechanisms in epigenetics are DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Recently, alterations in epigenetic mechanisms and their activity have been associated with osteoporosis and OVF. Here, we review emerging evidence that epigenetics contributes to the machinery that can alter DNA structure, gene expression, and cellular differentiation during physiological and pathological bone remodeling. A progressive understanding of normal bone metabolism and the role of epigenetic mechanisms in multifactorial osteopathy can help us better understand the etiology of the disease and convert this information into clinical practice. A deep understanding of these mechanisms will help in properly coordinating future individual treatments of osteoporosis and OVF.

Exploration of the Molecular Mechanism of Polygonati Rhizoma in the Treatment of Osteoporosis Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

“…With the acceleration of the ageing process worldwide, OP has become the third most common chronic disease, and it is a frequently occurring disease ( 20 ). The treatments for OP in modern medicine mainly include calcium, vitamin supplements and estrogen replacement therapy.…”

Association between NF-κB Signal Pathway-Related Gene Polymorphisms and Response to Alendronate Treatment in Postmenopausal Chinese Women with Low Bone Mineral Density

“…As a result, more clinical trials are required to support the use of alendronate to prevent bone loss and osteoporosis [ 22 – 24 ]. Osteoporosis is a multifaceted illness affected by genetic and environmental variables, with a high degree of genetic determinacy [ 25 ]. We performed this pharmacogenomic research to determine if genetic variables contribute to individual variances in response to alendronate administration.…”

Introductory Chapter: Osteoporosis Overview

“…Luis Rodrigo Gastroenterology Department, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain *Address all correspondence to: lrodrigosaez@gmail.com lordosis and kyphosis of the spine, with the consequent increase in pressure on internal organs, which can decrease the respiratory capacity of affected subjects [23,24].…”

“…Other secondary causes have been reported, such as celiac disease, monoclonal gammopathy of uncertain origin, chronic renal failure, diabetes mellitus, and renal tubular acidosis. Some epigenetic factors can be associated [2].…”