Osteoporosis: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapies

Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Jan 22;21(3):714. doi: 10.3390/ijms21030714.

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a common skeletal disorder, occurring as a result of an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation, with bone breakdown exceeding bone building. Bone resorption inhibitors, e.g., bisphosphonates, have been designed to treat osteoporosis, while anabolic agents such as teriparatide stimulate bone formation and correct the characteristic changes in the trabecular microarchitecture. However, all of these drugs are associated with significant side effects. It is therefore crucial that we continue to research the pathogenesis of osteoporosis and seek novel modes of therapy. This editorial summarizes and discusses the themes of the fifteen articles published in the Special Issue, Osteoporosis: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapies 2019, as part of the global picture of the current understanding of osteoporosis.

Keywords: molecular mechanisms; osteoblasts; osteoclasts; osteoporosis.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Bone Density Conservation Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bone Remodeling / drug effects
  • Bone Resorption / drug therapy
  • Bone and Bones / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Osteogenesis / drug effects
  • Osteoporosis / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Bone Density Conservation Agents