 |
| Scientific Discovery Changes the Future of Osteoporosis Prevention |
Scientific Discovery That Could Eliminate the Need for Exercise: Protein Protects Bones Even Without Movement
Researchers at the University of Hong Kong have made a remarkable scientific discovery that could change the future of osteoporosis prevention. They identified a protein that acts as an "internal exercise sensor," allowing bones to benefit from movement even in the absence of actual physical activity.
According to the study, published in the journal Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, this protein explains how movement maintains bone strength and opens the door to developing drugs that mimic the effects of exercise at the molecular level. This could be a lifeline for the elderly and immobile patients.
Osteoporosis is one of the most common health problems worldwide. World Health Organization data indicates that one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 suffer fractures related to weakened bones. The problem worsens with age, as bones gradually lose density and become more porous. Osteoporosis
Within the bone marrow are stem cells that can differentiate into either bone tissue or fat cells. As we age, these cells tend to produce fat instead of bone, leading to weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures. In experiments conducted on animal models and human cells, researchers identified a protein called Piezo1, found on the surface of stem cells in the bone marrow, which acts as a mechanosensor, detecting signals generated by movement and pressure.
When this protein is activated by physical activity, it prompts stem cells to produce bone instead of storing fat, thus limiting bone loss. Conversely, the experiments showed that the absence of Piezo1 leads to accelerated fat accumulation within the bone and the release of inflammatory signals that further deteriorate bone health.
Pharmaceutical Simulation of Exercise
The study's lead author, Professor Shu Aimin, director of the Biopharmaceutical Technology Laboratory at the University of Hong Kong, says that the researchers have "unraveled the mechanism by which the body converts movement into stronger bones," emphasizing that identifying this molecular sensor provides a clear target for developing new treatments. He adds that pharmacologically activating the Piezo1 pathway could "trick the body into thinking it's exercising," even in patients immobile due to age, chronic illness, or prolonged bed rest.
Study participants from France and China believe this discovery goes beyond traditional physical therapy and could potentially reduce the risk of fractures in the most vulnerable groups by slowing age-related bone loss. The research team is currently working to translate these findings from the laboratory to clinical trials, aiming to develop drugs that maintain bone strength and improve quality of life at a time when global aging rates are increasing.
No comments:
Post a Comment