New Receptor Discovery Offers Potential to Reverse Bone Loss in Osteoporosis
Leipzig,Germany – Scientists at the University of Leipzig have identified a crucial cell receptor,GPR133,that plays a key role in bone strength and offers a potential new avenue for treating and even reversing osteoporosis. Published July 3, 2024, in Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, the research demonstrates that activating GPR133 boosts osteoblast activity – the cells responsible for building bone – in animal models.
osteoporosis, a condition affecting millions globally, currently has no cure, wiht existing treatments focused on slowing progression or managing symptoms, frequently enough accompanied by critically important side effects. This discovery centers on understanding how GPR133 influences bone density. Researchers found that when GPR133 is activated, osteoblasts become more dominant, leading to stronger bones. They utilized a compound, AP503, to stimulate the receptor, effectively “getting the osteoblasts working harder.” Notably, the strengthening effect of AP503 was amplified when combined with exercise.
“If this receptor is impaired by genetic changes, mice show signs of loss of bone density at an early age – similar to osteoporosis in humans,” explains researcher ines Liebscher. The team observed that mice with impaired GPR133 exhibited early signs of bone density loss, mirroring the effects of osteoporosis.
The findings suggest future treatments could not only fortify existing healthy bones but also rebuild bone lost due to conditions like osteoporosis, especially in women experiencing menopause. Molecular biologist Juliane Lehmann emphasizes the potential for an aging population, stating, “The newly demonstrated parallel strengthening of bone once again highlights the great potential this receptor holds for medical applications.”
While the research is currently based on animal models, the underlying biological processes are believed to be relevant to humans.Numerous factors influence bone strength, providing scientists with multiple avenues for developing therapies to combat osteoporosis and promote healthier aging. Current osteoporosis treatments can slow the condition’s progress but ofen carry risks or loose effectiveness over time.
