Gene Variants Related To Bone Density And Fracture.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$330,375.00
Summary
Bone density and osteoporosis have a genetic component. Identifying genes that are involved in determining bone density may permit advances in controlling osteoporosis. We have identified a variant that is related to bone density high enough to protect individuals four fold against Colle's fracture, the common wrist fracture seen in women. In addition, some people with bone fracture at the hip, or low bone density, have mutations in this gene. The gene is a master regulator of the cells that mak ....Bone density and osteoporosis have a genetic component. Identifying genes that are involved in determining bone density may permit advances in controlling osteoporosis. We have identified a variant that is related to bone density high enough to protect individuals four fold against Colle's fracture, the common wrist fracture seen in women. In addition, some people with bone fracture at the hip, or low bone density, have mutations in this gene. The gene is a master regulator of the cells that make bone: this gives hope that it may be possible to alter bone formation through this master regulator.Read moreRead less
The Role Of Tenascin-C In Bone And Joint Pathology
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$215,773.00
Summary
Many diseases of bones (e.g.osteoporosis) and joints (e.g. arthritis) result from the abnormal function of cells in these tissues. Factors regulating cell function are, therefore, important in maintaining a healthy skeleton, as well as in the skeleton's response to disease. Tenascin-C is a protein produced by bone and joint cells. The role of tenascin-C in the function of bone-forming cells (osteoblasts) and bone-resorbing cells (osteoclasts) will be investigated. We will investigate whether ten ....Many diseases of bones (e.g.osteoporosis) and joints (e.g. arthritis) result from the abnormal function of cells in these tissues. Factors regulating cell function are, therefore, important in maintaining a healthy skeleton, as well as in the skeleton's response to disease. Tenascin-C is a protein produced by bone and joint cells. The role of tenascin-C in the function of bone-forming cells (osteoblasts) and bone-resorbing cells (osteoclasts) will be investigated. We will investigate whether tenascin-C is required for the bone loss that occurs in female mice when oestrogen is not present. We will also determine the role played by tenascin-C in development and recovery from arthritis. This study will contribute to the understanding of how bone and joint cells function in health and disease.Read moreRead less