Imagine if you could cure osteoporosis with a pill. The idea may not be that farfetched. Researchers at FIU’s Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine and a team from the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) recently published a study in Communications Biology. It showcased the collaboration between the agencies, resulting in an oral tablet that is thought to promote bone growth.
The process targets the hormone receptor called RXFP2, which is known to play an important role in the reproductive system. To encourage bone-building cells, the team pinpointed the right chemical compound. This, in turn, activated the receptor.
Because bones are essentially always being renovated—cells break down and new cells take their place—there may be a period in the process to focus more on building bones up and decreasing their breakdown. That would be good news for individuals at risk of osteoporosis or those struggling with it.
Tests so far have been performed on lab mice alone. Still, there are high hopes for the continued study of these receptors and medications which may one day be available. And this research, once available more widely, may one day result in more natural products for individuals wanting to promote bone health.
