How Parathyroid Hormone Affects Bone Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Robert L Jilka, Charles A O'Brien, Shoshana M Bartell, Robert S Weinstein, Stavros C Manolagas
Primary Institution: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Hypothesis
Does continuous elevation of parathyroid hormone (PTH) increase the number of osteoblasts through both osteoclast-dependent and independent mechanisms?
Conclusion
Continuous elevation of PTH increases the number of osteoblasts via both osteoclast-dependent and independent pathways, which are necessary for balanced bone remodeling.
Supporting Evidence
- PTH infusion increased both osteoclasts and osteoblasts in vertebral cancellous bone.
- The ratio of osteoblasts to osteoclasts was greater in PTH-treated mice than in sRANKL-treated mice.
- PTH decreased the level of the Wnt antagonist sclerostin.
- PTH increased the expression of Wnt target genes Nkd2, Wisp1, and Twist1.
- PTH increased the number of blood vessels in the bone marrow.
Takeaway
When a hormone called PTH is kept high, it helps make more bone-building cells called osteoblasts, which is important for keeping bones strong.
Methodology
Swiss-Webster mice were infused with PTH or sRANKL, and bone remodeling was analyzed using micro-computed tomography and histomorphometry.
Limitations
The study was conducted on mice, which may not fully represent human physiology.
Participant Demographics
Female Swiss-Webster mice, 6 months old.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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